One of the key priorities many buyers ask for is a blend of privacy and tranquility without sacrificing convenience. The West Sussex region delivers beautifully, with a number of characterful and charming villages that remain close to major transport links, outstanding schools and universities, and amenities such as shops, theatres and restaurants.

Living in a village is often aspirational, with a sense of community, safety and seclusion that can be difficult to find in larger towns and cities, and with traditional cottages and stunning rural heritage properties that offer a superb lifestyle for any family.

Let's look at some of the most popular villages within a short distance of Chichester and why they remain some of the most sought-after and prestigious places to live in our wonderful part of the country.

Exploring the Villages around Chichester and West Sussex

Many of the villages nearby are set against the backdrop of Chichester Harbour and the coastline, steeped in ancient history, and often with properties, church spires and monuments that have stood for hundreds of years.

The attraction isn't solely the pace of life or the appeal of living in an area that feels peaceful and quiet but the access to nature, green spaces, wild beaches, and dunes. There are countless activities that are accessible to villagers of all ages and abilities, including:

  • Water sports, sailing, fishing and boat trips.
  • Birdwatching, walking and cycling.
  • Horse riding on the Wittering beaches.

For more relaxing weekends, the village pub is always a great gathering spot, with multiple award-winning eateries and tucked-away restaurants which feel warm, inviting and a real hub of the local community.

Villages like East Wittering blend old and new perfectly with vibrant boutiques and independent shops. Fishbourne is a draw for nature lovers, where the stream is brightened by kingfishers, and locals watch the birds migrating over the harbour.

Itchenor is another highlight, with Chichester Harbour Conservancy based within the village. It offers harbour tours from its eco-friendly catamaran and is a perfect location for property buyers looking for private mooring or berths and those hoping to join a high-quality sailing club.

The Benefits of Family Life Within a Charming Village

A semi-rural lifestyle provides an environment without pollution and more spacious properties and green spaces – with a complete absence of overcrowding or traffic jams. Many people relocate to a bustling village for the slower pace, where a visit to the park, beach or café is an easy walk rather than a drive away.

There is an array of properties for sale and housing options depending on whether you'd like a large family home with ample accommodation, a property with a studio or annexe to provide a quiet working space or guest accommodation, or a truly rustic cottage with all the quirks and original features that make them so special.

Over the years, many villages have remained largely unchanged, with quintessentially English market squares, memorials, churches, cobbled streets and village greens – with the essential duck pond.

However, the appetite for premium housing has also meant there is a wealth of larger estates and homes set away from the roads and with incredible panoramic views over the hills and stretching to the South Downs or overlooking the harbour and coastline.

Buyers can select from contemporary, airy properties for sale with immaculate landscaping and mature gardens, traditional farmhouses, modern barn conversions or listed properties built from original Sussex stone.

Finding Your Ideal West Sussex Village Location

The featured villages below provide a brief snapshot of the unique places to live within the West Sussex countryside and what they offer in terms of comfort and privacy.

Bosham

Bosham is a picturesque village thought to be the final resting place of Harold II. Bosham Church is depicted within the Bayeux Tapestry, and today, the village is considered one of the most photogenic locations in Southern England.

 Boxgrove

This tiny village and civil parish is home to Boxgrove Priory – with parts of the original building still standing almost 1,000 years later. Boxgrove has a distinctive architecture and natural beauty, with a village hall, school and local shop.

Itchenor

Situated on the harbour and served by the Itchenor Ferry, which sails to Bosham, Itchenor is an exquisite setting and one of the most prestigious locations in West Sussex. With a population of just 500 people, the sailing club, Ship Inn, memorial hall, and church remain central points within the village.

Waterfront properties are always in extremely high demand, with homes available that offer fantastic living space, spacious gardens, harbour views and storage space for boats and sailing equipment over the winter.

West Wittering

A captivating village, West Wittering is just to the east of Chichester Harbour and boasts a pristine Blue Flag beach, calm seas and a warm microclimate owing to the shelter provided by the South Downs and the Isle of Wight just across the water.

We can recommend properties for sale within walking distance of the beach with south-facing gardens, al fresco dining areas, ample parking, storage and entertaining space.

Assistance from the West Sussex Property Professionals

These homes, among many others, are available to view through our selection of properties for sale, with comprehensive image galleries, floor plans and maps to ensure you see exactly what each residence has to offer and whether it meets your requirements.

If you wish to arrange a viewing or submit an enquiry, you can do so directly through our property pages or by contacting the Tod Anstee team at your convenience.

Our sales consultants are available via phone at 01243 523723, by email at chichester@todanstee.com, or by completing our enquiry form. We circulate a regular property bulletin highlighting new listings that may be of interest or welcome you to visit us at our Chichester offices at The Old Coach House in the heart of Chichester.

Living in a secluded, charming village property offers an incredible opportunity, and we would be delighted to discuss your needs and help you find the ideal property for you and your family.



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