Thorney Island Shoreline Walk

Chichester harbour beaches, marshes, and military borders

Route Overview

This unique circular walk starts in Emsworth and follows the public shoreline footpath around Thorney Island, which is a Ministry of Defence base. You will walk along the sea wall, enjoying views over Chichester Harbour, pass sandy beaches, and cross the wildlife-rich Thornham marshes.

Travel & Getting There from London Victoria

By Train: Take Southern from London Victoria to Emsworth Station (via Horsham / Chichester). (Station: Emsworth Station (Southern Railway), duration: 1h 30m (Southern from London Victoria via Horsham)).

By Bus: Take National Express 030 from Victoria Coach Station to Portsmouth/Havant, connect on Coastliner 700 into Emsworth. (2h 30m - 3h 10m from London Victoria)

By Car & Parking: Nearest car park is Emsworth South Street Car Park (PO10 7EG). Drive time from London Victoria is approx 1h 45m - 2h 15m from London Victoria (69.8 miles via A3 South through Hindhead Tunnel). From London Victoria, drive south on A3 past Guildford and Petersfield, exit onto B2149 / A259 into Emsworth and Thorney Island.

Trailside Cafes & Historic Country Pubs

Refreshment and dining stops located along or near the Thorney Island Shoreline Walk trail:

• ☕ The Sussex Oak, Emsworth: Traditional pub and refreshment stop for walkers.
• ☕ Emsworth Deckhouses Cafe: Traditional pub and refreshment stop for walkers.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I travel to Thorney Island Shoreline Walk from London?

Take Southern from London Victoria to Emsworth Station (via Horsham / Chichester). (Station: Emsworth Station (Southern Railway), duration: 1h 30m (Southern from London Victoria via Horsham)).

Where is the closest car park for Thorney Island Shoreline Walk?

Nearest car park is Emsworth South Street Car Park (PO10 7EG). Drive time from London Victoria is approx 1h 45m - 2h 15m from London Victoria (69.8 miles via A3 South through Hindhead Tunnel). From London Victoria, drive south on A3 past Guildford and Petersfield, exit onto B2149 / A259 into Emsworth and Thorney Island.

How long is the hike and what is the terrain difficulty?

Thorney Island Shoreline Walk covers 14 km (8.7 miles) with an estimated duration of 4 hours, graded as Easy. Starts at Emsworth Station and finishes at Emsworth Station.