Public access rights along the King Charles III England Coast Path between South Hayling and East Head will commence on 4 February 2026, after a statutory order made on 29 January set the legal “access preparation period” end date for this stretch. The Secretary of State approved this route in two stages - length SHE4 in July 2020 and the remaining sections in July 2024 - and the appointed day follows the model set out in the Marine and Coastal Access Act, where access rights switch on once establishment works are finished. (gov.uk)

Covering parts of Hampshire and West Sussex, the new section traces the edge of Chichester Harbour from South Hayling Beach over Langstone Bridge towards Emsworth and Prinsted, skirts Thorney Island, and continues via Bosham and West Itchenor to West Wittering Beach and East Head. Natural England’s published proposals and Section 52 decisions provide the maps and alignment for each length. (gov.uk)

On the ground, the opening means the waymarked trail becomes part of the National Trail network and most land seaward of it becomes coastal margin, where people can usually enjoy beaches and foreshore. Some areas remain controlled or off limits - for example excepted land, saltmarsh or mudflat where it’s unsafe, or places under temporary restrictions for wildlife or land management - and dogs must be under effective control, with short leads near livestock. Official maps carry any live restrictions. (gov.uk)

The route doubles as a living classroom. Chichester Harbour National Landscape is the largest natural harbour in south‑east England and holds multiple protections, including Site of Special Scientific Interest, Special Protection Area, Special Area of Conservation and Ramsar status. East Head alone can host 500–2,000 dark‑bellied brent geese in winter, contributing to around 6.5% of the world population across Chichester and Langstone Harbours. (national-landscapes.org.uk)

Responsible access keeps those gains intact. Bird Aware Solent asks visitors to stay at the top of the beach or on paths when birds are feeding or roosting, keep dogs alongside, and respect roped‑off dune sections at East Head. The National Trust also runs seasonal waymarked routes here to reduce disturbance; look for on‑site signs and ranger advice. (birdaware.org)

There is a clear wellbeing upside. Natural England’s People and Nature Survey shows 91% of adults agree being in nature benefits their physical health and 90% say it supports mental wellbeing; Office for National Statistics analysis values these health benefits in the hundreds of millions each year. National Trail openings also support local tourism, as highlighted when Portsmouth to South Hayling went live in November 2025. (gov.uk)

Land managers gain clarity too. Defra guidance confirms Natural England funds initial waymarking and establishment works, the trail can “roll back” as coasts change, and formal restrictions are available for safety or conservation where needed. Informal signs and early conversations with the access authority can often resolve issues before legal steps are considered. (gov.uk)

This switch‑on follows the opening of 22.23 miles from Old Portsmouth to South Hayling on 12 November 2025, creating a continuous National Trail experience around Langstone and, from 4 February, Chichester Harbour. Natural England continues to work towards completing the coast‑wide route by spring 2026. (gov.uk)

Planning a low‑impact visit is simple: check Natural England’s interactive maps for any local restrictions, aim for off‑peak times, and if finishing at East Head note West Wittering Estate’s pre‑booked parking at busy periods. Bird Aware’s free walks offer an easy briefing on the coastal code before you set out. (gov.uk)