Windmill Beach

The shingle beach at Windmill stretches wide and proper peaceful, especially outside summer weekends. It's a straightforward sort of place - no attractions, no refreshment stands, just the sweep of the coast near Chichester with the Downs behind you. The appeal is mostly in the flatness and space; you can walk for miles without tripping over deckchairs or ice cream vans.

There's a working windmill set back from the shore, though access to it varies seasonally. Worth the detour if you're the type who enjoys coast walks and taking photos of weathered structures against grey skies. Families with small children might find it a bit bleak unless the kids are genuinely into exploring rockpools and spotting waders. Walkers absolutely should include it in their ramble from Chichester or along the coast path.

You won't need more than an hour or two here unless you're making it part of a longer hike. Come when the tide's out if you want proper beach to cover. It's free to access, obviously, being a beach.

If you're staying at West Sands Holidays just down the road, this becomes a genuinely handy spot for an easy morning walk. The rated five-star sites at Creative Camping and Stubcroft Farm are close enough that Windmill Beach works as a half-day outing alongside exploring the wider coastline. Haven Church Farm's also within reach for a more exposed, weather-beaten alternative to the usual seaside routine.