From Chichester Station, we headed south toward the Chichester Ship Canal. Originally part of the Portsmouth and Arundel Canal, this waterway was opened in 1822 as a strategic inland route linking London to Portsmouth, avoiding the dangers of coastal navigation during the Napoleonic Wars. Designed by engineer John Rennie, the canal could accommodate vessels up to 85 feet long and 18 feet wide.

Following the towpath, we passed restored features like the iron swing bridge and enjoyed views of the tranquil water, now popular with walkers, cyclists and kayakers. Despite forecasts of rain, the weather was unexpectedly warm and pleasant, though sections of the path were very muddy indeed.

Leaving the canal near Hunston, we entered a village whose name likely derives from Old English, possibly meaning “Huna’s farmstead.” The area has deep historical roots, with nearby Mundham mentioned in the Domesday Book of 1086. Mundham’s name is thought to mean “mouth homestead” or “protector’s settlement,” and the parish was historically significant as part of a land grant by King Caedwalla of Wessex in 680 AD to Bishop Wilfred.

Continuing south, the path led us toward the Pagham Wall, a raised embankment marking the edge of Pagham Harbour. Once a bustling medieval port, Pagham’s name may stem from “Pæga’s ham,” meaning “Pæga’s homestead.” Today, the harbour is a designated Local Nature Reserve and Site of Special Scientific Interest, renowned for its birdlife.

Around the saltmarsh and mudflats, you might spot redshanks, curlews, and lapwings. In winter, the area hosts thousands of brent geese and wigeon, while summer brings terns and warblers. The harbour’s rich biodiversity supports over 200 bird species annually and is a great draw for twitchers. 

The walk concluded at Pagham Wall. From here, options included catching a bus to Bognor Regis Station or continuing on foot along the beach. Though not a circular route, the journey offered a blend of historical insight, natural beauty, and quiet rural paths—muddy in places, but manageable with good boots.