Selsey: Life in the idyllic Sussex town where half a mile was lost to sea

West Sussex is home to many seaside towns but Selsey has remained one of its hidden gems.

The lesser-known coastal town can be found on the point of the Manhood Peninsula, tucking it away from the rest of Sussex.

It’s not as famous as nearby seaside areas like the Witterings, but life in the town looks like something out of a perfect American TV neighbourhood.

A few miles south of Chichester, Selsey feels tucked away, with a beach that is equally secluded and peaceful.

As you drive down the single, long road leading in and out of the town, it seems as though you’re entering a whole new world.

The buildings are cute and picturesque, and houses become even more reminiscent of American suburban neighbourhoods with white picket fences as you head closer to the seafront.

The quaint town might seem like a novelty full of charming houses and village vibes for visitors but locals are lucky enough to consider it all part of their everyday lives.

Although it feels like a small, tucked-away place, Selsey is still home to schools, holiday resorts, golf courses, restaurants, shops, and has its own non-league football club with an impressive ground just off the high street.

There’s a second RSPB nature reserve, Pagham Harbour, and both make the perfect place for a walk, run or cycle route with an incredible view to keep you motivated.

One couple walking their dog along the seafront said these everyday activities are when you can best see the beauty of Selsey.

Carl, 56, told SussexLive: “These are the best moments when you live here, even in winter the beach is the place you want to be to take in the view when you’re doing something like the dog walk, especially now in lockdown.”

His wife agreed that part of Selsey’s “charm” is when it feels quieter outside of the summer season.

Even if you’re visiting from somewhere else in Sussex, as you walk through the town you’d be forgiven for feeling like you’re on holiday roaming around one big resort.

There are residents outside their homes trimming the hedges to fit in with the rest of their pristine front gardens, making it feel like even more like you’re passing through the scene of a movie.

Selsey is so tranquil, as a visitor you should almost feel out of place and like you’re disturbing the town’s peace. But the locals are friendly and inviting, making you feel warmly welcomed.

Those living and working in the area get to experience Selsey’s community spirit first hand.

This spirit is evident in the many initiatives those in the town have volunteered to be a part of

Even during lockdown you can sense that the town is all about community, walking past a fruit and veg stall people were chatting to each other from a distance as they queued, taking the opportunity to brighten each other’s afternoon in a time where it could be their only social interaction for the day.

The town itself is full of beautiful landscapes and wildlife that sets it apart, with the neighbourly ethos just an added bonus.

Zoe Neal, the Neighbourhood Co-ordinator at Selsey Town Council, described the town’s beauty: “Selsey is a unique seaside town, rich in history and wildlife, at the most southernly tip of West Sussex, eight miles out into the Solent.

“With more sunlight hours than anywhere in the UK it is a true destination

“Surrounded by miles of natural beaches on all but the northern side, with its bathing water rated as excellent, Selsey caters for many activities, experiences and interests."