The rich history of downland villages Boxgrove and Halnaker dating back half a million years

A short drive north-east of Chichester, two downland villages can be found adjacent to the Goodwood estate at the foot of the South Downs.

According to the team at Stride & Son, estate agents, auctioneers and property managers based in Chichester, both Boxgrove and Halnaker are rich in history.

An old Roman road, Stane Street, runs through Halnaker and the village is also mentioned in the Domesday Book.

The remains of ‘Boxgrove man’ were also discovered nearby, dating back some 500,000 years.

Today, Boxgrove and Halnaker are both popular, with ‘thriving, active communities’ within easy access of the A27 and the A285 north to London.

Bus services also run into Chichester to the west.

In Halnaker, villagers can unwind at the Anglesey Arms pub, restaurant and beer garden, pick up bouquets from the florist or visit Tinwood Vineyard, which produces English sparkling wine.

In addition, the Grand Folly Hotel on Tinwood Lane runs a ‘pop-up glamping venue’ during major Goodwood events.

A spokesman at Stride & Son said: “Halnaker windmill is reached via a picturesque walk through a tunnel of trees to the hill, with lovely views, but this is also excellent riding and walking country.

“We know Halnaker well, as Nick Stride, the director of Stride & Son, and his family lived there for two generations and his grandfather, an ex-mayor, farmed there.”

Neighbouring Boxgrove is somewhat larger, with a shop, café and primary school.

In addition, the newly-built Community Hall holds charity events, hosts guest speakers and puts on various activities for all ages, from bowls, bridge club, film nights to children’s clubs.

It also boasts historic 12th century Boxgrove Priory and the Priory Church of St Mary and St Blaise.

According to Stride & Son, properties in Boxgrove and Halnaker range in size, age, style and price, from ex-estate cottages to large detached period properties, and a close of bungalows and family homes: “There is something for everyone.

“The villages appeal to first-time buyers, families and commuters, with Barnham and Chichester main-line stations a short distance away.

“Being on Goodwood’s doorstep, both villages have easy access to its many facilities, including two golf courses, horse racing, a motor circuit, an airfield and Goodwood Hotel leisure complex.

“These villages have so much to offer, combined with beautiful countryside.”

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