Lavant

Downland village at the foot of the South Downs on the River Lavant, with a well-regarded pub, two medieval churches, and close links to Goodwood estate.

Lavant is a village at the foot of the South Downs, approximately two miles north of Chichester on the Lavant Road. The village sits in the valley of the River Lavant, a winterbourne chalk stream that flows intermittently depending on the water table. In wet winters the Lavant runs strongly through the village; in dry summers it may cease flowing entirely. The village is divided into two parts: Mid Lavant and East Lavant. Mid Lavant, on the main road, is the larger settlement with most of the village's services including the Earl of March pub, which is well regarded locally and draws diners from Chichester and beyond. East Lavant lies to the east, a quieter hamlet grouped around its own green and church. St Mary's Church in Mid Lavant and St Nicholas's Church in East Lavant both have medieval origins. The Lavant Road connects the village directly to Chichester, and this route carries a good deal of commuter traffic. The village is popular with those who want to live on the edge of the Downs while remaining close to the city's shops and station. Property prices reflect this desirability. The South Downs National Park boundary runs through and around Lavant, and the surrounding downland provides excellent walking and riding. The Centurion Way cycling and walking path passes just to the west, connecting Chichester to West Dean through the Lavant valley. Goodwood, the Dukes of Richmond's estate, lies to the east of the village. The Goodwood motor circuit, racecourse, and associated events are a significant presence in the area, and residents of Lavant experience both the benefits and the disruption that major events bring. The village has a primary school, a village shop, and an active community life centred on the village hall.