Fishbourne Creek

Tidal creek forming the natural southern boundary of the village, rich in birdlife and harbour views.

Fishbourne Creek is the tidal inlet that extends northward from Chichester Harbour towards the village. The creek and its margins form a natural area on the southern edge of Fishbourne, where the built environment gives way to mudflat, saltmarsh, and the open harbour. At high tide, the creek fills with water and small boats can navigate its channels. At low tide, the mud is exposed and the wading birds feed along the water's edge. The path along the creek provides a walk from the village to the harbour shore, with views across the mud to the wider harbour and Thorney Island beyond. The creek area is within the Chichester Harbour AONB and is subject to the landscape protection that the designation provides. Development along the creek margins is tightly controlled, preserving the open, natural character of this transitional zone between village and harbour. For wildlife watchers, the creek is one of the most accessible birdwatching spots near the village. Little egrets, herons, and redshank are commonly seen, and the winter months bring brent geese and larger flocks of waders to the mudflats.