Chichester Harbour and The History of Dell Quay

Chichester Harbour (AONB) is one of the few remaining undeveloped coastal areas in Southern England. Protected by Chichester Harbour Conservancy, its wide expanses and intricate creeks are a major wildlife haven, making it the single most important site on the South Coast. Here, boating activity happily coexists alongside more than 55,000 waders and waterfowl when they visit our harbour each year. Don’t be surprised if you spot a seal, as they too enjoy a visit to Chichester Harbour from their home in the Solent!

At the top of the harbour and two miles from the centre of Chichester lies the small hamlet of Dell Quay. Comprised of the 16th century Grade II Listed pub, The Crown and Anchor, Dell Quay Sailing Club, and just nine privately owned homes.

Hard to believe today, but in the 14th century the quay at “La Delle,” as it was then called, was the only official landing place for the “Port of Chichester” and was rated 7th in importance in all England. Records show that from the early 13th century Dell Quay rose in importance as a busy port.  Cargoes of grain, timber and wool were among the goods exported and imports included wines, coal, cloth and building materials. 

The wharf at Dell Quay was subsequently built in the 16th century on the orders of Lord Fitzwilliam of Cowdray and by the end  of the 16th century the picturesque Crown and Anchor inn was built by  popular request from those living in the parish, as they had nowhere to meet without having to travel a great distance.  

Nowadays, Dell Quay is a popular destination for visitors keen to enjoy the views, walks, fishing, paddle boarding, kayaking and of course, sailing.  The Crown and Anchor remains as popular today as it was centuries ago!