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Nature Activities

The Borough is a must-see destination for all those who enjoy the wonders of the natural environment. The coastline of the Borough extends to 48 kilometres, mainly due to the presence of Langstone Harbour (to the west of Hayling Island) and Chichester Harbour (to the east).

Both harbours are internationally renowned for their wildlife interest and are designated Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs). At certain times of the year up to a third of the UK population of some bird species are here. There are several nature reserves in the area and ample opportunities to join birdwatching and nature walks and even to take part in conservation work.

Bird Watching in Emsworth
External link to website covering ornithological interest in the Emsworth area.

Park Wood
This area of woodland between Waterlooville and Cowplain is part of the ancient Forest of Bere. Supported by volunteers and managed by the Woodland Trust, it is an important area with great wildlife and historic significance.

Hollybank Woods
61 hectares of beautiful Council-owned woodlands in north Emsworth, managed with the support of an active volunteer group.

Johnston's Coppice
An area of woodland east of Purbrook, where much work has been done recently to improve paths and the ponds within the wood.

Brook Meadow
Open pasture and meadow alongside the River Ems at Emsworth, owned by the Council and maintained by a very active Friends group.

Nore Barn Woods
Woodland beside the sea! A beautiful area of the Borough on the coast between Warblington and Emsworth, with an active 'Friends' group dedicated to its management and sympathetic improvement.

Oyster Beds
The so-called "Langstone Oyster Beds" lie in the north eastern corner of Langstone Harbour, which is a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), Special Protection Area (SPA), candidate Special Area of Conservation (cSAC) and a Ramsar Wetlands site.