Felpham Beach — Attraction in Arun

Although I live abroad, whenever I come back to this part of West Sussex I try to get at least one walk in here. The most recent time was at the beginning of July. I have family who live in Felpham and we usually start our walk from the 4th Avenue and work our slow way westwards. This time we made it as far as the Lobster Pot where we stopped for essential replenishments. The tide was in but it was a little chilly and there was no temptation to have a dip.

In all seasons this beach is a pleasure just as long as you have the right clothes on. That wind from the south west can get a little parky. When the tide goes out it reveals a sandy beach between the breakers. I have been known to walk brisky down to Bognor Regis and back - sometimes even slow jogging, helped by the brisk wind on the return leg. There always seem to be dog walkers out, people on bikes or electric scooters (more recently) and of, course fellow walkers, both old and younger...

It's Felpham beach. I'm tempted to say 'if you know you know', but that doesn't help anyone. The beach is lovely, you almost feel like you're in an isolated cove away from the masses in an isolated corner... because you are. Just don't walk around that corner, because you will see Butlins and be reminded just how close to danger you really are. Stop at the Lobster Pot. Literally. Don't go any further. It helps that the Lobster Pot is lovely and inviting, so why would you want to, but it's literally on a precipice in terms of proximity to Ground Zero, so you have been warned. Look East, look South, but for heavens sake don't head West. Grab yourself a 2 scoop pot and watch the world go by and repeat "it's not Bognor, it's not Bognor"....

A long beach, mainly pebbles, until low tide when the sea goes way out and reveals sand and rock pools to explore for kids of all ages. Well worth it. Some decent unfussy cafes towards the southern end (the Boat House cafe, with customer toilets inside), and a lovely place called the Lobster Pot, for light bites, just before the promenade turns the corner towards Bognor. There are public toilets near to the...