Discover the History of Apuldram

Welcome to Apuldram—also known as Appledram or Appuldram, depending on which map you’re reading! The name dates back to 1440 and is thought to mean “water meadows with apple trees.” Others believe it may come from the Dutch word polder, meaning low-lying land reclaimed from the sea—both fitting for our coastal setting.

Medieval Roots

In 1432, Apuldram had three streets: Port Street, Cotman Street, and Townman Street. Though these have long disappeared, traces of their cottages still lie beneath the fields west of Manor Farm. By the first national census in 1801, the population stood at just 134.

Historic Buildings

Apuldram is home to several notable buildings:

  • Rymans, a 15th-century manor house built for lawyer William Ryman, is described by Pevsner as “a delightful small manor house.” Its stone was shipped by barge from Ventnor, Isle of Wight. The gardens—open to the public—are a haven of bulbs, roses, ponds, and rare trees.
  • St Mary the Virgin Church, built to save locals the journey to Bosham, features a 12th-century font, a stunning triple lancet window, and two 15th-century bells inscribed with Latin blessings. Before 1447, the deceased were ferried to Bosham for burial via the “Old Cadaver Ferry.”

Local Life & Traditions

Apuldram Stables, once part of Rymans, offered riding lessons to children of all abilities, including our current clerk, Louise. Gymkhanas and fancy dress competitions were a regular delight, with rosettes handed out by actor Christopher Timothy of All Creatures Great and Small. In the 1980s, village blacksmith Bob delivered Christmas gifts by horse and cart—a cherished memory for many.

Dell Quay: A Historic Port

Dell Quay was once the only landing point for foreign trade in the Port of Chichester. In the 14th century, it ranked as the seventh most important port in England. Exports included wool, bacon, and cheese; wine was the most prized import.

By the 1930s, trade had dwindled, and the warehouses were removed. One charming 18th-century building remains and now houses the Apuldram Fishing Club.

Dell Quay Boat Club was founded in 1925 following a terrible storm, the name was changed to Dell Quay Sailing Club in 1934. Further information on the club and Quay is available on the Clubs website.

The Education Centre is also located on the Quay and provides a wonderful opportunity for young people to discover the harbour, the Education Centre is run by the Chichester Harbour Conservancy

Farming Through the Ages

Farming has deep roots here—dating back to William the Conqueror. After flooding in 1274, locals adapted by sowing crops on raised ridges. The 1845 Tithe Map shows three main farms: Church Farm, Manor Farm, and Crouchers Farm. Today, Apuldram Manor Farm remains active and offers B&B accommodation.

Apuldram in Wartime

The parish honours its WWI fallen on the memorial inside St Mary’s. During WWII, 300 acres of Manor Farm became an airfield for Czech Spitfire squadrons. Their stories, along with those of other wartime residents, are captured in the booklet In Memoriam, available at the church. For a deeper dive into our heritage, pick up A History of Apuldram (May 2024 edition), also available at St Mary’s.