A fascinating history
Saxon village to busy port … and PG Wodehouse!
The picturesque coastal town of Emsworth, on the border of Hampshire and West Sussex, began life as a Saxon village. But it grew larger and more important, and by the 18th century was a busy port. Nestling at the north end of Chichester Harbour, it became known for boatbuilding and ropemaking, as well as the importation of wine for the noble classes during the Middle Ages.
Later the village used tidal power to grind local grain into flour and this was transported by water to places such as London and Portsmouth.
Timber from the area was also exported in the 18th and 19th centuries.
Emsworth also became known for its oyster beds.
But in the early 20th century this industry went into rapid decline after guests at mayoral banquets in Southampton and Winchester became seriously ill, and four died after consuming oysters that had been contaminated with raw sewage.
Fishing oysters at Emsworth was subsequently halted until new sewers were dug, though the industry never completely recovered.
Today you can follow the Oyster Trail, an historic walk starting at the Emsworth Museum.
The museum tells the fascinating history of the village, including its most famous resident, Jeeves & Wooster creator P G Wodehouse – who incorporated several local names into his books.
Emsworth’s narrow streets and Georgian houses give it a period feel, while its waterside setting and views make it popular with sailors (the town possesses a basin for small yachts and fishing boats, which fills at high tide), artists and naturalists.