Hello again, loyal sniffers! Pawlock here, with Fetchson (the eternally soggy one) by my side, reporting from the beautiful - and slightly damp - village of Bosham, one of the most historic and picturesque spots in West Sussex.

This time, we swapped the motorhome for the car and headed off for a dog friendly day out packed with history, harbour views and (inevitably) rain!

A Bit About Bosham 🏰🌊

Bosham (pronounced Bozz-um, not Boss-ham, in case you’re ordering from the bar) is a charming coastal village set on a quiet inlet of Chichester Harbour, part of the Chichester Harbour Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

It’s steeped in history - mentioned in the Domesday Book, linked to King Canute (yes, the one who famously tried to hold back the tide right here) and later appearing on the Bayeux Tapestry as the place where Harold sailed to Normandy.

Today it’s known for its picturesque harbour, ancient church, and its unique quirk - when the tide comes in, the road floods! (Fetchson thought this was great fun. I thought it was poor planning!)

Parking & First Impressions 🚗

We parked right in the village centre car park, conveniently close to the harbour and shops. It’s ideal for a day trip, though spaces fill up fast on sunny weekends. Luckily, grey skies and drizzle meant we had our pick.

From there, it’s just a short stroll to the harbour path, which loops around in a lovely circular walk through the village, offering views of the boats, bobbing swans and those famous tidal roads.

Walkies Round the Harbour 🐾🌧️

We followed the harbour path, taking in the views across the mudflats (Fetchson wanted to test how deep they were - I politely declined).

The walk takes you right along the water’s edge and through the heart of the village, with old cottages, art galleries and plenty of sniffs along the way.

We stopped by Holy Trinity Church, one of the oldest in Sussex, dating back over a thousand years. Inside (where dogs aren’t allowed, sadly), there’s a memorial believed to be to King Canute’s daughter - a bit of royal history to go with your walk!

Lunch at The Anchor Bleu 🍽️🐶

When the rain really set in (sideways, again), we ducked - or should that be dogged - into the Anchor Bleu, Bosham’s iconic harbourside pub. It’s a dog friendly gem, with a roaring fire, hearty pub grub and a warm welcome for damp dogs and even damper humans.

The humans enjoyed lunch (and a pint or two) while we curled up to dry out. Outside, the tide crept in across the road - so remember to park high and dry unless you fancy a paddle back to your car!

Next Time’s Pawsome Plans 🐾

We didn’t get to try the Bosham Inn this time, but it’s firmly on our list for next visit - another dog friendly pub just outside the village with great food and a big garden for sunny days (we’re told those do exist).

Next time we’d also love to explore:

• The Bosham to Fishbourne walk along the harbour path – a flat, scenic route perfect for paws.
• Café at Bosham Walk – dog friendly and full of local crafts.
• A visit to nearby Chichester Harbour Conservancy Centre for info on local wildlife walks.
• 
  

Why Bosham is a Tail-Wagging Treat

• Beautiful harbour walks with stunning views.
• Steeped in Anglo-Saxon and Norman history.
• Several dog friendly pubs and cafés.
• Easy parking in the village centre.
• Just beware of the tide times (and the rain)!

Final Paw-Prints of Approval 🐾

Despite a thorough soaking, Bosham won us over with its charm, history and warm welcomes. Whether you’re here for the views, the heritage or the pub lunches, it’s a pawfect dog friendly West Sussex day out.

Two soggy but smiling tails from us — and next time, we’re bringing waterproofs!

Pawlock & Fetchson – sniffing out the UK, one pawprint at a time. 🐶🐶