Discover Westbourne: Half-timbered buildings, river and walking trails

Westbourne brings together a river, historic buildings and paths into the countryside. If you are looking for a hotel for a stay in the village, these features can help you get a sense of the destination first: the River Ems and the streams shape the landscape, while dated half-timbered architecture and listed buildings bring its architectural history to life. The village’s character and walking opportunities can therefore help guide your choice. It is best to check the specific features of an individual hotel against its actual offer.

Riverside landscape and location

Westbourne lies on the River Ems, a small river that flows into Chichester Harbour at Emsworth. The streams are also a picturesque feature of the village and provide a habitat for a wide variety of wildlife. Together, the river and streams give Westbourne’s landscape a clear connection to the water.

Since April 2011, the northeastern and eastern edges of Westbourne have bordered the South Downs National Park, an area of outstanding natural beauty. The precise boundary is important for orientation: the connection to the national park concerns the specified edges of the village. The Common covers four acres of open space, with views of the hills of the South Downs National Park.

Recreational areas and facilities

The recreation area on Mill Road has a children’s play area, a skate park, a football and basketball court, and outdoor fitness equipment. Benches, picnic tables and a car park complete the facilities. Mill Road is therefore a specific point of reference if you also want to consider sports and picnic facilities when choosing your destination.

The locations have different features: Mill Road has sports and picnic facilities; The Common offers open space and views of the hills. When planning, you can weigh up whether you would rather focus on a well-equipped recreation area or an open landscape vista.

Half-timbered building, mill and parish church

At The Square, buildings No. 1, 2 and 3 form a building dated to 1631, featuring half-timbering and flint infill. Westbourne Mill dates from the 18th century and is designated a Grade II listed building. Together, these buildings represent two distinct points of historical interest: a dated half-timbered building and a listed mill.

The parish church of St John the Baptist is also an important part of the village’s history. It is designated a Grade I listed building and is said to date back to Norman times. It is also considered likely to be the second ancient ecclesiastical endowment recorded in the Domesday Survey of 1086 under the Manor of Warblington, which was then attached to the Manor of Westbourne. This historical interpretation remains a likelihood, while the church’s Grade I designation is stated definitively.

Walking route and further orientation

The 4.7 km walking route from Emsworth to Westbourne follows Mill Lane and reaches Westbourne. The stated distance can help you include the route in your day’s plans. As trail conditions may change, check them before setting out.

Our Back Garden's Alpaca Café is located at Mill Meadows Farm: Mill Lane, Westbourne (near Emsworth), West Sussex, PO10 8RT. Check the latest visitor information before planning your visit, as operating details may change.

Considering Westbourne as a hotel destination

Use the village’s features to guide your choice of destination: half-timbered buildings and historic architecture offer a different focus from the riverside landscape, recreation areas or the walking route from Emsworth. If Westbourne suits your travel plans, compare specific hotel offers against the criteria that matter for your stay. Check location, facilities and terms directly with each offer.

Discover more destinations: Wisborough Green, Ansty, Rustington, Ferring, Partridge Green, Thakeham, Wiston, Barnham

For the main travel overview: West Sussex.