Located on the natural harbour of Chichester, Emsworth has long been a popular destination for summer tourists. Visit the village on a sunny day in August and you’ll be among many people thronging the streets and quayside enjoying the beautiful weather, the fantastic wildlife, and the stunning scenery.

There’s so much more to Emsworth than being a summer day out - it has a thriving food and drink scene, a treasure trove of history, and a well-established arts community. A short meander through the village will give you a glimpse of all the shops, cafes and picture-perfect cottages it holds, and the historical quay gives you a window into the past while taking in the sights and sounds of the wading birds.

Best Dog Walks in Emsworth

Emsworth and its surroundings are not short of a good walking route. There are so many to choose from that you can scarcely head in any one direction without being surrounded by the natural scenery or historic buildings the area offers. As wonderful as it is to set off on a whim with your dog and see where you wind up, here are some of my favourite routes to wander in Emsworth.

For those looking for a more leisurely amble than an energetic hike, the Two Millponds circular walk between Emsworth and Thornham marinas is flat and well-paved making it suitable for all abilities. The walk starts in the main square in Emsworth and follows the foreshore past what was an old tidal flour mill, now a bird sanctuary. It also goes past Emsworth Yacht Marina and Thornham Marina before looping back into Emsworth Village, and is sure to give your dog some good sniffs along the way. The whole route is about 6km and takes about an hour and a half to complete, and you can see the full route here.

For anyone seeking out a bit of local history, the Oyster Trail is a must-do as it takes you into the past of Emsworth’s forgotten industries and the mark they’ve left behind on the local landscape. There are a few routes to choose from varying in their length and what they cover, so you and your pooch can pick and choose to your needs. No matter which route you choose there is lots to see - from the village’s historic millpond to the remnants of the oyster beds from days gone by, you’ll get a snapshot into the local history and how the village used to look. You can see all the different walking routes on the Oyster Trail in this downloadable leaflet, which is also available for a small donation from Emsworth Museum.

Emsworth Mill Pond, by Tim Sheerman-Chase

Where to Eat in Emsworth

You’re definitely spoiled for choice in Emsworth for great places to eat. Many places offer outdoor seating which is wonderful to take advantage of when the sun is shining, and the village is littered with fantastic pubs, cafes, and hole-in-the-wall snack stops.

One of my favourites for a quick bite to eat is Cross Kitchen. Winner of Muddy Stiletto’s Best Cafe in Hampshire and Isle of Wight in 2023, this cute cafe is located in a former methodist church building just off the village square. With a large courtyard for outside dining as well as indoor tables for when there’s a nip in the air, it serves fresh seasonal food all year round. The courtyard is quite a suntrap, making it the perfect place for your pooch to have a sun-drenched snooze after a long walk while you indulge in some food. My advice to you is to not fill up too much on your main course - their cakes are to die for!

The new and old methodist churches - the old now being home to Cross Kitchen, by Tim Sheerman-Chase

For those in need of a heartier meal or a warm place to curl up in winter, The Crown Inn is a great option. With a cosy modern bar area as well as a large beer garden, there’s plenty of space for you and your doggo to relax and enjoy some fantastic pub food. They pride themselves on their seasonal menu that showcases as many local ingredients as possible, and it includes everything from sandwiches and jacket potatoes, to pub classics and a delicious Sunday roast. They also have a great programme of live music, so be sure to see what’s on so you and your pooch can join the fun!

Places to Visit in Emsworth

Being located on the natural Chichester Harbour, Emsworth is a nature lover’s heaven. From wading and migratory birds close to the foreshore, to the Harbour and Grey seals that make Hayling Island their home, there’s something to interest everyone. The best way to see the nature the area has to offer is from the water, and Chichester Harbour Boat Trips sail all year round and depart from Emsworth in the summer months. Be sure to choose a dog friendly excursion, as not all their trips are suitable for our furry besties.

For anyone who enjoys a glass of vino, Vin Wine Merchants are a must-visit. They offer a wide range of wines by the glass that you can enjoy in their lounge or outdoor courtyard, as well as a range of tutored tastings and cheese pairings. They welcome dogs to join their owners while they sip their rose, and they also have a range of gins, beers, and cocktails for those who aren’t into their wines. The shop is well worth popping in to have a look, where the unfortunate designated drivers can pick up a bottle or two to take home.

Vin Wine Merchants on Queen Street, by Tim Sheerman-Chase

Enjoy your walkies!

Sarah-Jane x

Best Dog Walks in Emsworth

Best Dog Walks in Emsworth

Where to Eat in Emsworth

Places to Visit in Emsworth

Best dog walks in East Meon