Bosham Quay

The water at Bosham Quay is the first thing that hits you - that particular shade of grey-green that belongs to coastal inlets rather than open sea. The quay itself is small, working rather than picturesque, with a handful of boats moored alongside and the church spire rising behind like a bookmark in the village skyline. It's the kind of place locals have known about for centuries, and you get the sense they still do most of the knowing.

Walkers and photographers get the most from a visit here. The view across Chichester Harbour has real character - not dramatically beautiful, but honest and lived-in. You can amble along the water's edge, poke around the handful of cottages that cluster near the quay, and if you've got patience, watch the tide work. The church - St Mary - is worth stepping into for a quiet moment.

There's no fanfare here, no admission charges or peak times to navigate. You simply turn up and have a look. Allow an hour to properly absorb it, maybe longer if you're the type to sit with a coffee and sketch. Summer's pleasant enough, but winter brings sharper light and fewer tourists getting in your photos.

If you're camping nearby - Concierge Camping is barely a mile away, or Mill Rythe a bit further - Bosham works as a morning walk before heading into Chichester itself for lunch. It's also a sensible detour between parks if you're touring the south coast. Not the flashiest stop, but genuine.