Halnaker Windmill
A picturesque windmill atop a hill, accessed via an enchanting tree tunnel, offering breathtaking countryside views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Lush green leaves in tunnel
Halnaker Windmill
Best Time
Lush green leaves in tunnel
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A picturesque windmill atop a hill, accessed via an enchanting tree tunnel, offering breathtaking countryside views.
"The tree tunnel is magical, and the views from the windmill are glorious!"
🚗 Limited Parking Alert
Windmill parking is tiny! Boxgrove Village Hall is a good alternative for more space. :car:
📸 Tunnel Photo Ops
The tree tunnel is stunning year-round, but peak in summer or fall for vibrant colors. :camerawithflash:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Halnaker Tree Tunnel
Pathway to the windmill
An enchanting tunnel of trees creating a magical, fairytale-like pathway. Perfect for photos!
Panoramic Countryside Views
Summit of Halnaker Hill
Breathtaking 360° views stretching to the coast, South Downs, and Chichester Cathedral.
Historic Halnaker Windmill
Top of Halnaker Hill
A Grade II listed windmill, a picturesque landmark offering a glimpse into local history.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
The Enchanting Tree Tunnel
Parking and Trail Tips
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Limited Parking Alert
Windmill parking is tiny! Boxgrove Village Hall is a good alternative for more space. :car:
📸 Tunnel Photo Ops
The tree tunnel is stunning year-round, but peak in summer or fall for vibrant colors.
👟 Sturdy Footwear Recommended
Paths can get slippery when wet, especially the chalky sections. :athletic_shoe:
🗺️ Follow the Signs
Stick to the marked trail and gates for a smooth journey to the windmill. :world_map:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Limited Parking Alert
Windmill parking is tiny! Boxgrove Village Hall is a good alternative for more space. :car:
📸 Tunnel Photo Ops
The tree tunnel is stunning year-round, but peak in summer or fall for vibrant colors.
👟 Sturdy Footwear Recommended
Paths can get slippery when wet, especially the chalky sections. :athletic_shoe:
🗺️ Follow the Signs
Stick to the marked trail and gates for a smooth journey to the windmill. :world_map:
🐶 Dog-Friendly Walk
A great spot for a walk with your furry friends, especially during quieter times.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the enchanting tree tunnel and the spectacular panoramic views from Halnaker Hill. The walk is generally considered pleasant and rewarding, though parking can be a challenge. While the windmill itself is not accessible, the surrounding scenery and historical context make it a worthwhile destination for a countryside excursion.
"Wonderful walk past flintstone cottages, through a tunnel of trees and flanks of poppy filled fields. Arriving at the windmill you experience glorious 360° views down to the coast and up to the trundle. Enjoy!"
Sally Eve
"The windmill is interesting to see, though it is not open to the public. However, the view is amazing and definitely worth the effort of the long climb up the hill. You can spot Chichester Cathedral and the Butlins resort at Bognor, as well of the gorgeous panorama of the South Downs."
Steve Lyons
"A really nice walk up to the Halnaker windmill on the top of the hill. Its not open and has a metal fence all the way around it. There's a plaque on it stating it was repaired in 1934 by Sir William Bird in the memory of his wife. There are a couple of other brick buildings in disrepair on the same site.
There is a beautiful walk up through trees that arch over at the tops to make a like tunnel cover along the pathway. It has a very tiny car park at the bottom which I would assume gets full very quickly. The other place where I parked was at the village hall as there is much more parking but its a longer walk. I wanted a longer walk so it was not a problem to me. The sign from there points to a field but you just walk around the edges and end up back near the road. So its better to walk along the road a bit then head down and cut though behind the houses. There is a gated field which is public access that leads o to a vineyard. You then keep going and across a field turn slightly to the left and out the gate. Cross the road and you will see the wooden sign next to Mill Cottage the small other car park is here. Turn right up the hill thats where the tree arch and windmill is at the top. You can see Chichester cathedral spire in the distance to the right if a clear day on the way up after the trees. There were sheep inthe fields grazing when i went in August. Its about 1.7 miles each way from Boxgrove Village Hall parking."
Stephen Caulfield
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most popular way is via the Halnaker Windmill Trail, often starting from Boxgrove Village Hall car park. You can also find routes starting from Halnaker village. If driving from London, head to Chichester and then follow local signs.
Parking directly at the windmill is very limited. Many visitors opt for the larger car park at Boxgrove Village Hall, which offers a longer but well-signposted walk.
Yes, you can take a bus from London to Chichester, and then a local bus (like route 55) towards the start of the walk.
The Halnaker Tree Tunnel is a beautiful, natural archway formed by trees over the pathway leading to the windmill. It's a highlight for many visitors, especially in autumn.
Yes, the walk is generally considered family-friendly, especially the tree tunnel section. The full trail from Boxgrove Village Hall is about 1.7 miles each way.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Halnaker Windmill and its surrounding grounds are free to visit. There are no admission fees.
The windmill itself is not open to the public and is fenced off. However, the surrounding area and the views from the hill are fully accessible.
As it's an outdoor public space, there are no set opening hours. You can visit at any time, though daylight hours are recommended for safety and enjoyment.
The Halnaker Windmill Trail is a public footpath and does not have any entrance fees.
While technically possible, visiting at night is not recommended due to safety concerns and lack of lighting on the trails. Daylight hours are best for appreciating the views and the tree tunnel.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You'll see the historic windmill, enjoy panoramic views of the South Downs and coast, and walk through the famous tree tunnel. There are also Neolithic earthworks nearby.
The walk from Boxgrove Village Hall is approximately 1.7 miles each way, taking around 20-30 minutes each way depending on your pace.
There are no facilities directly at the windmill. Public toilets and amenities are typically found in nearby villages like Boxgrove or Halnaker.
The main paths are generally well-trodden but can be uneven and muddy after rain. The tree tunnel is a pathway, and the climb to the windmill is a gentle incline.
Visitors have spotted sheep grazing in the fields and Wheatears on the fence posts. The natural surroundings offer opportunities to see local birdlife.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the Anglesey Arms pub is located near the footpath, and Tinwood Estate Vineyard offers wine tasting nearby.
Picnicking is a great idea! There are lovely spots along the trail and at the top of the hill to enjoy your own food with a view.
While Halnaker is a small village, you can find local pubs like The Anglesey Arms that offer food.
Tinwood Estate Vineyard is primarily a winery offering tastings. It's best to check their website for any food offerings or if they allow picnics.
Boxgrove Village Hall is close to local pubs and cafes in Boxgrove village, offering convenient options before or after your walk.
📸 📸 Photography
The Halnaker Tree Tunnel is iconic for photos, especially with autumn colors. The windmill itself and the panoramic views from the hill are also prime photography locations.
Golden hour, both morning and late afternoon, offers beautiful light for the tree tunnel and the windmill. Summer and autumn provide the most vibrant colors.
Drone usage is possible, and some stunning aerial shots have been captured. However, always be mindful of local regulations and privacy.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the tunnel and expansive views. A telephoto lens can be useful for details of the windmill or distant landscapes.
Generally, photography is allowed in public areas. Be respectful of private property and other visitors.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The walk is manageable, especially if you start from Boxgrove Village Hall, offering a good balance of activity and exploration. 🚶♀️ Solo Walkers & Hikers
📸 Photographers & Instagrammers
The tunnel offers incredible opportunities for dramatic shots, especially during autumn's vibrant foliage or summer's lush greenery. The windmill itself, set against the backdrop of the South Downs, provides a picturesque subject. Visiting during the golden hours will elevate your photography with soft, flattering light. Remember to bring a wide-angle lens for the tunnel and expansive views, and consider a drone for unique aerial perspectives. +1Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Iconic Halnaker Tree Tunnel
The tunnel is particularly breathtaking during autumn, when the leaves turn vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow, creating a warm, inviting canopy. +1 However, it's also beautiful in summer with its lush green foliage. The short walk through the tunnel is a delightful prelude to the main attraction. Many visitors recommend visiting during the golden hours of sunrise or sunset for the most dramatic lighting, which enhances the tunnel's magical quality.
While the tunnel itself is a highlight, remember that it's part of a larger walking route, and the journey is as rewarding as the destination. The path can be a bit uneven, so comfortable footwear is advised. Exploring the Halnaker Windmill Trail
Along the trail, you'll encounter flintstone cottages, open fields often dotted with sheep, and the aforementioned tree tunnel.
For those seeking refreshments, the Anglesey Arms pub is conveniently located along some of the footpaths. Be aware that the paths, particularly the chalky sections, can become slippery after rain, so sturdy footwear is essential. The Windmill and Its Surroundings
The area around the windmill is open countryside, offering a sense of peace and expansive natural beauty.
It's a popular spot for photographers and nature lovers alike. While the windmill itself is the focal point, the entire hilltop provides a fantastic vantage point to appreciate the rolling landscapes of West Sussex. 
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit