The best walks and hikes around Selsey

Yes, the area is ideal for circular hikes. Most trails in Selsey are loops that take you through varied landscapes, from the coastline back through nature reserves, so you can easily finish where you started. The Wetland Birdwatching Area – Church Norton loop from Selsey is a great example of a moderate circular route that explores the Pagham Harbour nature reserve.

Selsey's flat terrain makes it very suitable for families. There are over 10 easy hikes to choose from. For a shorter, accessible walk, the Church Norton – Wetland Birdwatching Area loop from St Wilfrid's Chapel is a great choice at just over 4 miles (6.6 km) on level ground, offering plenty of wildlife spotting opportunities for kids.

Many walking routes around Selsey are dog-friendly, especially the coastal paths and public footpaths. However, when walking through the RSPB reserves at Pagham Harbour and Medmerry, you must keep your dog on a lead to protect the sensitive wildlife and ground-nesting birds.

The area is a haven for wildlife, especially birds. The RSPB Pagham Harbour and Medmerry reserves are hotspots for seeing birds of prey like peregrines and barn owls. Depending on the season, you might also spot avocets, lapwings, little egrets, and large flocks of brent geese. Keep an eye on the water around Selsey Bill, as seals are often seen in the area.

For a more tranquil experience, consider exploring the trails within the Medmerry Nature Reserve. It's known for being a very quiet and calm place to walk, with wonderful panoramic views, especially if you follow the path down to the sea.

Several trails pass through or near Selsey town, where you can find traditional pubs for a rest. You can easily adapt a route like the Pagham Harbour Local Nature Reserve & Selsey loop to include a detour into the town centre for refreshments before completing your walk.

The hiking around Selsey is generally flat, making it accessible for walkers of all abilities. The trails consist of a mix of pebble beaches, coastal paths, grassy tracks alongside fields, and well-maintained paths through the nature reserves. You won't find any significant hills or strenuous climbs.

For walks around Pagham Harbour, the RSPB Pagham Harbour LNR visitor centre has a car park. For coastal walks starting in Selsey itself, there are several public car parks near the beachfront, such as near East Beach, which can be a good starting point for a route like the Church Norton – Church Norton Hide loop from East Beach.

Yes, besides the nature trails, you can explore the town's heritage. The Selsey Blue Plaque Heritage Trail guides you through historical points of interest, and you can also follow the path of the old Selsey Tramway. For something more whimsical, look for the Selsey Seal Art Trail.

The komoot community rates the hikes around Selsey very highly. Reviewers frequently praise the stunning coastal views, the abundance of birdlife in the nature reserves, and the peaceful, flat paths that make for relaxing walks. The combination of sea air and protected wetlands is a consistently highlighted feature.

While most local routes are short to moderate, you can connect paths for a longer day of hiking. For instance, you can walk the coastline from Selsey towards Bracklesham Bay or link up the trail systems of the Medmerry and Pagham Harbour reserves. The Church Norton Hide – Church Norton loop from Selsey is a good moderate-length option at over 5.5 miles (9 km).