Start with a relaxed breakfast: Hotham Park Café (if you plan to arrive early) offers simple cooked breakfasts and pastries beside the park; if you're arriving by train, the small station coffee shop is a convenient grab-and-go option. Both give you energy for the morning walk. Check local opening times (cafés often open 8:00–9:30am).
Make your way from the station or car park to Hotham Park — it's a 5–15 minute walk depending on your arrival point. The park is a pleasant green space to begin the day.
Stroll the formal gardens and lakeside paths, visit the children's play area, and look out for the small miniature (narrow-gauge) railway when it runs — a calm place to enjoy fresh air and local greenery. Park grounds are open daily (dawn–dusk); check the miniature railway and café opening times (often weekends/holidays or limited hours).
Drop into the local museum and art displays to learn about Bognor's history and seaside heritage — a compact, informative stop that usually takes 30–45 minutes. Typical small museum hours are around 11:00am–4:00pm (varies by day); confirm before visiting.
Enjoy a seaside lunch with traditional fish & chips at a seafront chippy or café near the pier — fresh, filling, and quintessentially British. Many seafront cafés and fish & chip shops open from late morning (around 11:00am–12:00pm); busier in summer, so allow time for a short queue.
After lunch, walk the promenade and out onto Bognor Pier for sea views, casual amusements, and photo stops; the promenade is flat and easy for a leisurely stroll. The pier and nearby attractions often have seasonal hours (typically daytime until late afternoon), and the promenade itself is always open.
If you want a quieter stretch of sand, walk west along the promenade toward Felpham for 15–30 minutes, or stay near the pier and enjoy an ice cream or seaside coffee. Felpham provides a more peaceful beach vibe and is an easy extension before you head back.
Finish your day trip and return to Bognor Regis station or your transport. Allow 10–20 minutes to reach the station from the seafront depending on where you finish your walk.
If you extend into the evening, try the Belgrave Hotel's restaurant for a more formal meal (check reservation and opening times) or The Anchor pub in nearby Felpham for a relaxed pub dinner with local ales and seafood options. Both are good options after a day outdoors; opening times typically include evening service but vary by day.