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People walking on the beach at sunset, East Head, West Sussex
People walking on the beach at sunset, East Head | © National Trust Images/John Miller
Sussex

East Head and Ellanore circular walk

This circular route takes in East Head, Chichester harbour and West Wittering village. Enjoy pretty coastal paths, leafy lanes and coffee shop or pub options along the way. This walk is only available between March - September. From September to March please follow the signed Winter Walk around East Head.

Total steps: 10

Total steps: 10

Start point

West Wittering car park, grid ref: SZ771978

Step 1

Begin your walk at East Head. A walk around East Head (1 mile/1.6km) takes around 45 minutes. Stroll along the shore, through the dunes and back along the salt-marsh path to experience all that East Head has to offer.

Step 2

Stop at the northern end of East Head for a fabulous view of Chichester Harbour.

Step 3

Stroll through the dunes and back along the salt-marsh path, back to the entrance to East Head.

Step 4

At the entrance to East Head, with East Head now behind you, the footpath to Snowhill Creek is on your left and runs north-east, following the hedge line at the edge of the salt marsh. Use the top path; the lower path, which is tempting at low tide, hides some very soft clay and should be avoided.

Step 5

At Snowhill Creek follow the line of the harbour, taking the signposted footpath that continues north off the creek, through a small wooded and sheltered section.

Step 6

From the bird hide the path turns east and becomes more sheltered as wind-sculpted trees create a leafy tunnel.

Step 7

When you get to a gate and footpath sign you are at Ellanore Lane. Turn right onto Ellanore Lane, which has a firm gravelled surface, leading to West Wittering village. Follow the lane for ½ mile (800m), passing the allotments before you emerge into the village.

Step 8

As you emerge into West Wittering at the end of Ellanore Lane there is a great little café, The Landing (not National Trust) which is on your left. This overlooks a small green at the entrance to West Wittering Estate.

Step 9

Turning immediately right out of Ellanore Lane, walk a short distance before turning right again into Roman Landings. The footpath is on your left, and leads through horse fields and back onto Snowhill Creek.

Step 10

From Snowhill Creek retrace your steps along the footpath, back to East Head.

End point

West Wittering car park, grid ref: SZ771978

Trail map

Map showing route and steps of East Head and Ellanore circular walk
Map showing route and steps of East Head and Ellanore circular walk | © Crown copyright database rights 2013 Ordnance Survey

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Coast Guard Lane, Chichester, West Sussex, PO20 8AJ

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