Pagham Harbour, Nature reserve and harbour in West Sussex, England
Pagham Harbour is a coastal reserve on England's south coast comprising tidal mudflats, saltmarshes, and shingle beaches spread across roughly 630 hectares. These different environments create distinct habitats where various plants and animals thrive.
The site was originally a medieval trading port called Wardur near Sidlesham. In the 1870s and early 1900s, local efforts to drain and reclaim the land eventually failed due to harsh weather conditions.
The harbour supports colonies of nesting birds and attracts migratory species that use it as a feeding and resting ground. Locals and visitors often come here specifically to watch these populations move through the seasons.
Entry is free and parking is available at several spots, including the RSPB Nature Reserve. Paths can become muddy and wet depending on the season, so wear appropriate footwear when planning to walk around.
Chichester Cathedral remains visible across the water from here, a sight that actually shaped building regulations for the entire surrounding region. This long-standing view has protected the landscape in unexpected ways over many generations.
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