Hunston on the Chichester Canal: Paths and History

Hunston can be explored through three specific themes: the Chichester Canal, paths through the surrounding area and historical connections in the village. The canal runs alongside the parish of Hunston; the northwestern part of the parish lies on its banks. It is designated a Site of Nature Conservation Importance (SNCI). At the same time, the Chichester Canal is navigable through Hunston between Chichester Basin and Donnington Road (B2201). The nature designation and waterway therefore relate to the same local landmark, but answer different questions: the designation indicates its importance for nature conservation, while the named endpoints define the navigable section.

Along the Chichester Canal and through Hunston Copse

The towpath along the Chichester Canal offers a gentle, four-mile walk between Chichester Basin and Chichester Marina, passing Hunston Bridge. Its length and endpoints give the route a clear outline; the bridge is a named landmark along the way. The FLOW Trail in Hunston includes a designated footpath through Hunston Copse. Hunston Copse is considered an area of ancient woodland. The route descriptions use different landmarks: for the towpath, the route between the Basin and the Marina; for the FLOW Trail, the footpath through Hunston Copse.

The Chichester950 Pilgrimage Route

At nine miles, the Chichester950 Pilgrimage Route is longer than the four-mile towpath. It passes through the historic manor of Hunston, by St Leodegar’s Church, and then follows the canal in the direction of Chichester. The towpath is described as a link between the Basin and the Marina; the Pilgrimage Route names a sequence of places and the direction of Chichester. The two routes can therefore be compared using their stated lengths and the landmarks described.

Historic routes and practical planning

Another historic route connection links Hunston with the Selsey Tramway: it crossed the Chichester Canal here. Signage and access may change over time. If you would like to trace the former route locally, check this information in advance.

As a separate activity, Chichester Golf Club in Hunston offers 18-hole Adventure Golf. You must book and pay online before arriving to play Adventure Golf. Check the booking information again before your visit, as arrangements may change.

Church and architecture

The present building of St Leodegar’s Church in Hunston dates from 1885. Its unusual dedication may point to a connection with Lessay Abbey in Normandy, which acquired the church in 1105. The possible interpretation and the dates provide a historical context for a visit to the church, without presenting the conjecture as a confirmed explanation.

Flagstones also has clearly identifiable architectural features: a rendered exterior, a cornice with modillions, and a hipped roof covered with tiles. Modillions are small brackets on a cornice; this distinguishes the façade detail from the roof. Together, these details describe both the exterior wall’s design and the roofline and shape.

Discover more destinations: Southwick, Billingshurst, Burgess Hill, Funtington, Albourne, Rustington, West Chiltington, Petworth

For the broader travel overview: West Sussex.