Birdham and Itchenor

Four miles south of Chichester, Birdham is a small and welcoming village with one of the oldest natural marinas in England. Houseboats line the lower end of the canal which although no longer used for navigation makes a pleasant walk into Chichester. The present Birdham Mill, with its Mill Pond by the harbour, dates from 1768 and when it ceased operating in 1935 was the last tidal mill in Sussex. During World War II Birdham Pool was requisitioned by the Royal Navy. After the war the pool was developed for the berthing of private yachts and motor cruisers.

The quiet scenic village of Itchenor is a desirable location for sailing enthusiasts and is popular with tourists. Itchenor offers the only 24 hour public launching site in the harbour and is home to Chichester Harbour Conservancy. The Harbour Water Tours run seasonal boat trips from the jetty at Itchenor across the water to Smugglers Hard.

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