Things To Do
in Selsey
Situated on the southern coast of West Sussex, Selsey is a small, welcoming seaside town known for its long shingle beaches and views across the English Channel. Its history as a fishing and maritime community is evident in the harbor, local pubs, and the nearby Selsey Bill lighthouse. The town sits just inland from Pagham Harbour and Chichester Harbour, offering easy access to wildlife reserves and coastal walks.
With a relaxed pace, family-friendly attractions, and easy day trips to Chichester and the South Downs, Selsey is ideal for a restful coastal break.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Selsey and check into your cozy seaside accommodation. Enjoy a relaxing breakfast at a local café overlooking the ocean. Take a leisurely stroll along the beach to soak in the coastal views.
Visit the historic Selsey Lifeboat Station to learn about its importance in maritime rescue efforts. Explore the local shops featuring unique crafts and souvenirs. Take a bike ride along the stunning coastal paths.
Enjoy a delicious seafood dinner at a renowned local restaurant. Stroll along the beach under the stars, listening to the soothing sound of waves crashing. End the night with a warm drink at a nearby pub.
Head to the beautiful West Wittering Beach, known for its golden sands and rolling dunes. Settle down with a picnic breakfast while watching the waves. Take a dip in the refreshing sea if the weather permits.
Build sandcastles or indulge in some water sports like paddleboarding or windsurfing. Enjoy a beachside café for lunch, savoring fresh local produce. Explore the nature trails in the surrounding area for some stunning coastal views.
Return to Selsey and freshen up for dinner, perhaps trying some traditional British fare. Visit the nearby Selsey Theatre for an evening performance or a movie. Wind down at your accommodation, listening to the sounds of the ocean.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee | $3-5 |
| 🍽️Meal for 2 mid-range restaurant | $40-70 |
| 🏨Night in a mid-range hotel | $90-150 |
| 🛍️Groceries for a week | $60-120 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Scenic coastal scenery and wildlife-rich nature reserves
- Relaxed pace with family-friendly attractions and pubs
- Limited nightlife compared with larger cities
- Smaller town amenities may require trips to nearby larger towns for certain services
Places to Visit in Selsey
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic headland with ocean views, ideal for sunrise or dramatic sea-sky photography.
Wetlands and marshes teeming with birdlife; excellent for golden hour and wildlife shots.
Calm waters, boats, and reflections along the harbor—perfect for serene coastal photography.
Wide sandy shore with gentle dunes and expansive sea vistas for wide-angle shots.
Food in Selsey
Selsey Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional steamed pudding with a rich custard-like surprise inside; a quintessential Sussex dessert often found in local tea rooms.
Must-Try!
Assortment of locally caught prawns, crab, and white fish, best enjoyed at a seaside pub or fish shack.
Cold prawns in seasoned butter served with crusty bread—great as a light seaside starter.
Classic seaside staple featuring locally sourced cod or haddock, best enjoyed hot and crispy.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Pop-up stalls along the seafront during summer offering fresh seafood, baked goods, and local crafts.
Occasional farmers' markets in Chichester and nearby towns where you can find cheeses, chutneys, and seasonal produce.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet staff with a simple hello and please/thank you; queuing is the norm in shops and bus stops.
Respect dog-friendly rules; keep dogs on leads where required, especially on beaches during breeding seasons.
Stay on marked paths and observe wildlife from a distance; avoid disturbing birds and protected habitats.
Safety
Tipping in Selsey
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is customary but not mandatory. In pubs, rounding up or a 5-10% tip for table service is common; in cafes it is typically optional.
Debit and credit cards are widely accepted; contactless payments are common. Cash is still useful at smaller venues and markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Long days, mild to warm temps, and busy seafront. Ideal for beach activities, long walks, and sunset photography, but expect crowds on weekends.
Cooler air and migrating birds along the coast; pleasant weather for coastal walks and wildlife watching.
Often windy and cooler with occasional frost; quieter streets and dramatic stormy seas suitable for moody photography.
Milder days, blooming hedgerows, and increasing wildlife activity; great for nature walks and outdoor dining.
Selsey at Night
Hiking in Selsey
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Accessible trails around the marshes with birdlife and water views—great for a peaceful hike.
A short drive away, a historic hill fort with panoramic downs and sea views; a popular day hike.
Scenic walk around the harbor with chances to spot birds and boats, suitable for varied fitness levels.
Airports
How to reach Selsey by plane.
Major international hub with extensive rail and road links; accessible from the region by car or train.
Regional airport serving UK and European destinations; reachable via road and rail connections from West Sussex.
Regional airport offering a range of domestic and European flights; convenient by road from coastal towns.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many families visit for holidays and weekend getaways; family-friendly beaches and parks are common.
A steady presence of long-term residents and retirees who value a relaxed coastal lifestyle.
Holidaymakers converge in the warmer months, influencing local services and atmosphere.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Coastal location supports boat cruising, sailing, and paddleboarding along the Sussex coast.
Nearby golf courses offer scenic links and countryside play with sea views.
Common local clubs and recreational leagues, especially in the summer months.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Selsey.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are generally available at pubs and cafés; look for vegetable pies, frittatas, and salads.
Vegan options are increasingly available, but may be limited in some traditional pubs; check menus ahead or request substitutions.