Best attractions and places to see around Tangmere, a village near the South Downs, offer a mix of historical sites, cultural points, and access to natural landscapes. The area is known for its significant aviation history, particularly around the former RAF Tangmere airfield. Visitors can explore ancient churches, Bronze Age barrows, and enjoy views of the surrounding countryside. This region provides opportunities for outdoor activities and cultural exploration.
Last updated: June 23, 2026
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Cycling is limited. Access from London Road (where cathedral is)
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A mighty cathedral with an adjoining monastery marks the center of the small town of Chichester.
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Beautiful views, trails and architecture in a historical place. Some hill walking, mud tracks (of this time of year) walk along the River Arun. You will see a variety of birds, adulating ground levels, scenic photographic views both panoramic and sculpture. Visit the old market town, churches, a cathedral, views of Arundel Castle, sit by the lake with a hot drink from the cafe at Swanbourne Lake. Walk your own pace and enjoy.
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It's worth noting that the pictures here are of Devil's Humps (10 mins away) not Bow Hill. This marker is in the middle of some woodland without a view (but you do walk past a good view as you turn off the main path!)
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2 hours free parking gives plenty time to take a nice stroll. There’s also a good gastro pub and cafe with outdoor seating (and dog friendly).
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Really lovely walk, but still very wet/muddy along the canal and across the fields so wear the right footwear, Well compensated by beautiful scenery, Marina, Chichester Channel, and great Pub - food and drink - Crown and Anchor. Highly recommend this walk.
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Tangmere is rich in history. You can visit the Chichester Cathedral, a stunning example of Norman and Gothic architecture visible for miles. The ancient Devil's Humps (Bronze Age Barrows) offer a glimpse into prehistoric times with spectacular views. Within Tangmere itself, St Andrew's Church dates back to Saxon times and features a 13th-century timber roof and war graves. The Tangmere Military Aviation Museum, located on the former RAF Tangmere airfield, is also a significant historical site dedicated to military aviation heritage.
Absolutely. The area offers several excellent viewpoints. Hiorne Tower provides excellent vantage points of the surrounding countryside in the South Downs National Park. Bignor Hill also offers far-reaching views across the rolling countryside. The Devil's Humps (Bronze Age Barrows) are another spot known for their spectacular vistas.
The proximity to the South Downs National Park means there are many opportunities for outdoor activities. For hiking, you can find various trails, including easy loops like the 'Windmill Trail Tree-Lined Path – Boxgrove Priory loop from Tangmere'. If you're interested in cycling, there are options for both gravel biking and mountain biking. Explore more routes for hiking around Tangmere, gravel biking around Tangmere, and MTB trails around Tangmere.
Yes, there are several options for families. Chichester Cathedral is listed as family-friendly and offers an impressive historical experience. The Tangmere Military Aviation Museum can be engaging for children interested in aircraft and history, with interactive displays and cockpits. Additionally, the scenic Chichester Marina provides a pleasant setting for a stroll and features The Boathouse Cafe.
Many of the natural areas around Tangmere are suitable for dog walks, particularly within the South Downs National Park. The Chichester Marina is also dog-friendly, with The Boathouse Cafe welcoming four-legged companions. Always check local signage for specific restrictions, especially in nature reserves or protected areas.
Beyond the ancient historical sites, Tangmere offers a few unique cultural points. The Village Green, once a pool, is now a central feature of the village. For a different kind of cultural insight, Tangmere Airfield Nurseries showcases modern agriculture, utilizing massive glasshouses on former RAF land to grow aubergines and peppers.
While Tangmere itself is a village, its close proximity to the South Downs National Park provides access to vast natural beauty. A notable nature reserve nearby is RSPB Pagham Harbour, one of the most important sites for wetland birds on the south coast. The Devil's Humps (Bronze Age Barrows) are also set in a natural landscape offering easy paths and views.
Visitors frequently appreciate the blend of history and natural beauty. The spectacular views from sites like Devil's Humps and Hiorne Tower are highly praised. The historical significance of places like Chichester Cathedral and the peaceful atmosphere of the surrounding countryside also receive positive feedback.
For refreshments, The Boathouse Cafe at Chichester Marina is a popular choice, offering a tranquil waterside setting. Many of the nearby towns and villages, including Chichester, also have a variety of cafes and pubs to explore after your walks or visits to attractions.
The best time to visit Tangmere and its attractions largely depends on your preferred activities. Spring and summer offer pleasant weather for exploring the South Downs and outdoor sites like Devil's Humps and Hiorne Tower. Autumn provides beautiful foliage for walks. Indoor attractions like the Tangmere Military Aviation Museum and Chichester Cathedral are accessible year-round.
While not strictly 'hidden,' RSPB Pagham Harbour is a significant nature reserve that might be overlooked by those focusing solely on historical sites. For a unique historical perspective, the ancient yew tree next to St Andrew's Church in Tangmere suggests a long-standing sacred history of the site, predating the current church structure.


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