🌬️ Chasing Light at Halnaker Windmill 🌿
A walk through history, nature, and that one magical tree tunnel
Yesterday, I finally ticked something off my photography hit list: Halnaker Windmill, perched on top of a hill in West Sussex, with THAT tree tunnel leading the way like something out of a fairytale (or a slightly spooky British folk horror). And let me tell you, it did not disappoint.
This blog’s a little deep dive into the trip — with a bit of history, some personal reflection, and of course, plenty of photos and emojis 📸✨
🌳 First Stop: The Tree Tunnel (aka The Ancient Trackway)
As soon as I arrived, I made a beeline for the thing I was most excited about — the tunnel of twisted trees that forms a natural archway over a sunken lane.
This isn’t just any country lane though. It’s called Mill Lane, and it’s an ancient holloway — a type of road that’s been worn into the landscape over centuries by feet, carts, and livestock. You’re literally walking through history — the path has been used since at least Roman times, and possibly long before.
And when the light hits right? It’s like stepping into another world. The branches wrap around you, the green glow feels almost mythical, and the silence is proper eerie in the best possible way 🌌🌿
🏡 Then Up the Hill: Halnaker Windmill
At the top of the climb, you get your reward — Halnaker Windmill, standing tall and a bit dramatic on the hill. Built in the 18th century, it’s been through its fair share of wear and tear (including a lightning strike in 1905 ⚡), but it’s been restored and still looks absolutely iconic against the skyline.
📍 Fun Fact: The windmill was originally built for the Goodwood Estate, and it was in operation until the early 1900s. Today, it’s a peaceful little landmark with killer panoramic views across Sussex.
I arrived just before golden hour (of course 😎), and the soft light on the red-brick mill with those shadows stretching across the grass… chef’s kiss. This is one of those spots where every angle tells a story. From drone shots over the surrounding countryside to moody silhouettes — it’s a creative dreamland.
💭 Why This Trip Hit Different
This wasn’t just another location shoot for me. It felt calm, connected, and kind of grounding in a way I didn’t expect. There’s something about walking a road that’s been walked for centuries that makes you stop and think.
It also ties into everything I’ve been exploring lately with photography and meaning. I’m not interested in just snapping pretty pics anymore — I want to document emotion, place, and vibe. That’s where the music side of my brain kicks in too — thinking about the soundtrack that matches the scene, the feeling a shot creates. This trip had a definite ambient-folk-meets-melancholy-indie-playlist kind of energy 🎶🌾
🎯 Tips if You’re Planning to Visit:
• 🥾 It’s a decent uphill walk from the car park at the bottom — bring proper shoes
• 📷 Go for golden hour if you want that dreamy light (trust me)
• 🌸 Late March to May is great for blossom and fresh greenery
• 🚫 You can’t go inside the windmill, but you don’t need to — the real magic is the view
🚀 Final Thoughts
This trip was a reminder of why I do what I do. Photography isn’t just a hobby — it’s a way of noticing things. Feeling things. Telling stories that go deeper than words can explain.
So yeah — Halnaker was a vibe. Expect to see a lot of the photos from this shoot popping up on my socials and in future projects. And if you’re ever in Sussex with a camera and a bit of time? Go. You won’t regret it.
Thanks for reading — and as always, welcome to the DJC Zone 🖤
Studio DJC 