Bognor Regis - Location
5 miles south of Chichester - on the A259.
Bognor Regis suffers when compared to such resorts as Brighton. Residents say there is a micro-climate centred on Bognor which gives it far better weather than many southern resorts . Little more than a hamlet
until 1785 when Sir Richard Hotham bought a couple of thousand acres in order to develop a fashionable resort to rival Brighton. He did not build on the front though which was left to haphazard development in the 19th century. The 'Regis' suffix was awarded to the town by George V who convalesced in nearby Aldwick, now very much the elite part of town. In recent years much work has been put into upgrading the whole front area and the pier. The promenade stretches either side
of the pier. Hotham Park with its miniature steam railway is just behind the front. One of the major attractions in the town is the South Coast World which is at the end of the front. Thousands of visitors, many of whom go for the day, visit the site each year. One of the most bizarre attractions is the annual international birdman rally when those of little brain but much bravado jump off the pier in an attempt to fly!! The annual clowns convention is also held in the town. |
