Top Tips for Planning the Ultimate Hen Party near Chichester, Selsey, West Wittering and Bracklesham Bay

Top Tips for Planning the Ultimate Hen Party in Chichester, Bracklesham Bay, West Wittering & Selsey

Planning the perfect hen party doesn’t have to be stressful. Whether you’re organising an adrenaline-fuelled adventure, a relaxing weekend getaway, or a mix of both, the Chichester District in West Sussex offers the ideal blend of beach life, countryside charm, boutique experiences and exciting activities.

This guide covers the best locations, attractions, accommodation, and local gems across Chichester, Bracklesham Bay, West Wittering, and Selsey, helping you craft the ultimate hen party experience.

Why Choose Chichester and Surrounding Areas for Your Hen Party?

Chichester, often called “Chi” by the locals, is a historic cathedral city surrounded by some of the South Coast’s most picturesque coastal villages and beaches. Within 20 minutes of each other, Bracklesham Bay, West Wittering, and Selsey are all easily accessible by car or local bus routes. These destinations offer a mix of coastal retreats, nature, and nightlife options that are perfect for groups looking to celebrate in style.

Explore the Hen-Friendly Highlights

Goodwood Estate Adventures

Home to world-famous events like the Festival of Speed and Glorious Goodwood, the Goodwood Estate offers a luxurious and action-packed experience. For hen parties with a need for speed, Forster Racing School provides exhilarating Rage Buggy rally driving experiences—perfect for a high-energy day out with the girls.

Fontwell Park Racecourse

Add some glamour to your weekend at Fontwell Park. Whether you’re dressing up for Ladies’ Day or booking a hospitality box for one of their themed race nights, Fontwell brings a touch of class and plenty of fun to any hen itinerary.

Chichester’s Cultural and Relaxed Experiences

Chichester Cathedral

Steeped in over 950 years of history, Chichester Cathedral offers a peaceful and reflective space for groups looking to start their weekend with something a little more serene. From the Marc Chagall stained glass window to the tranquil cloisters, it’s a beautiful spot for culture lovers.

Art Galleries and Boutiques

The city is dotted with independent galleries and artisan shops—perfect for a mid-morning wander and perhaps picking up a keepsake or two.

Chichester Marina

Fancy a waterfront lunch or just admiring the yachts? The Marina is an elegant setting for daytime relaxation before the evening festivities kick in.

Coastal Gems for Hen Party Magic

Bracklesham Bay – Laid-back Vibes & Hidden Gems

Bracklesham Bay is ideal for a more relaxed, beachy hen experience. Think wild swimming, paddleboarding, or simply watching the sunset with a glass of prosecco in hand. It’s also the home of The Beach Bracklesham previously known as Billys on the Beach, a beautifully curated lifestyle café and event space. This new local business offers brunches, cocktails, and can even host private bookings—perfect for pre-party meetups or beachside toasts.

Looking for a base in Bracklesham? There are charming beach houses and holiday rentals that can comfortably accommodate groups, just steps from the sea.

West Wittering Beach – Iconic and Instagrammable

Known for its soft sandy beaches, colourful beach huts and epic sunsets, West Wittering is ideal for beach games, BBQs or even beach yoga. With the West Wittering Estate nearby, nature lovers can also explore the adjacent salt marshes and sand dunes of East Head.

Selsey – Seafood and Stargazing

The fishing village of Selsey is a quirky coastal destination full of character. It’s perfect for an evening of fresh seafood dining (Selsey crab, anyone?) followed by stargazing walks along the beach. The area is renowned for its clear night skies and laid-back pubs.

Accommodation Ideas for Your Hen Party

Depending on your group size and vibe, you’ll find a wide range of accommodation across the region:

• Beachfront Houses in Bracklesham Bay and West Wittering (ideal for larger groups)

• Boutique B&Bs in Chichester for central access

• Luxury Glamping experiences around the South Downs

• Holiday parks and hot tub lodges near Selsey for comfort and fun

Adventure and Activity Ideas

No hen party is complete without some action! As the UK’s leading Hen Party Paddleboard Adventure Centre, we offer bespoke group packages including:

• Try our Hen Party Paddleboarding Sessions

• Wild swimming experiences

• Guided nature walks through Medmerry Reserve

• Beach brunch and paddle combo

• Rewild Sauna on Bracklesham Beach

These are ideal for groups who want to mix relaxation with something a little different and memorable.

Final Hen Party Planning Tips

1. Book early – Coastal stays fill quickly, especially during summer.

2. Mix it up – Combine activities with downtime.

3. Stay flexible – Have indoor options in case the weather shifts.

4. Make it local – Support local businesses like Surfs SUP Watersports or The Beach Bracklesham and the Goat Cafe.

Plan Your Hen Party the Smart Way

Chichester and the wider coastal area—from Bracklesham Bay to Selsey – offers a beautifully diverse and easy-to-navigate destination for planning a hen party to remember. Whether your group is craving beachside chill or full-on adventure, you’ll find something here to keep every hen smiling.