things to do in emsworth

Because, Emsworth is unique! Identified as a Home Town not a cloned Town by an New Economics foundation report in 2005 the town
 still retains a large number of small independent shops un-spoilt  by modern development.

Emsworth is popular with sailors, artists, naturalists and walkers. The two tidal millponds to east and west are host to a variety of wild life. Emsworth has a long history connected with oyster fishing and boat building and still boasts traditional shipwrights and chandleries. Its attractive streets are lined with a mixture of architectural styles and high walled gardens and a walk around the town gives a genuine feel for the past, with exceptional harbour views.

In Emsworth it is possible to enjoy a quiet drink in one of the nine pubs,  a good meal in one of five excellent restaurants and a cup of tea and a cake in one of five cafes.Fresh provisions can be purchased in either of the two butchers, the fish mongers and in the  greengrocers. More serious retail therapy is catered for in a wide selection of specialist shops and there are delightful walks to be had around the mill pond, along the shore and through Brook Meadow.  Other attractions include the interesting old buildings many dating from the 18th century, the Museum (open at the weekends from Easter until November) and the charming feel of this ancient, but still working town
.

Depending on the time of year of your visit you can enjoy  The Emsworth Arts Trail, one of the regattas organised by the local sailing clubs or Christmas in Emsworth.

Follow the Oyster Trail - A walk starting from Emsworth Museum. Oysters have been fished in Emsworth harbour for centuries. At the  height of the industry (second half of the 19th century), almost 5  million oysters a year came out of  Emsworth and almost half the  locally employed population earned their living from fishing and the  industries that supported it, such as boat building. Find out about  this fascinating piece of history as well as having a pleasant walk  around the “Emsworth Oyster Trail”.

  Download the trail leaflet HERE  

In the summer The Chichester Harbour Conservancy's solar powered boat sails from the pontoon on the mill pond wall around the harbour and from September you will also be able to take a trip on Emsworth's only surviving oyster smack The Terror.

You may of course just enjoy one of the many walks which are easily accessible from the town:  www.emsworthwalks.org