Halnaker Hill

The windmill at the top of Halnaker Hill is what draws most people here, and it's worth the climb. This 18th-century brick structure sits on the South Downs just inland from Bognor Regis, commanding views across the Weald that justify the thirty-minute walk up from the car park. The mill itself is a ruin now - no sails, no machinery - but that somehow makes it more atmospheric than a working one would be.

The approach is straightforward enough, cutting through fields and up a chalk track. On a clear day the views extend towards the Solent and over to Hampshire. On a grey Sussex afternoon, it's moody and proper atmospheric. The hill itself isn't steep by South Downs standards, so it's manageable for families with older kids and reasonably fit walkers. You're looking at an hour or so for the round trip if you're not rushing.

This works well as a morning outing from any of the nearby holiday parks - Chichester Lakeside or the Club site at Graffham are both within easy driving distance. It's free to visit, and you won't find crowds up here even on weekends. The windmill has become a minor pilgrim site for downland walkers, but it never feels trampled.

If you're touring the South Downs or based near Bognor for a week, slot this in on a good weather day. It's a proper slice of Sussex countryside history, and the views reward the effort. Don't expect facilities at the top - bring water and come prepared for wind.