Emsworth began as a small hamlet with a weekly market to serve the needs of farmers. Bounded on its eastern and western sides by streams, and facing southwards on to a creek in Chichester Harbour, Emsworth developed as a centre for milling, fishing, shipbuilding and coastal trade. By the 18th century the hamlet had become a thriving village and port. Continued growth during the 19th and 20th centuries gave Emsworth a more urban character, but the center has retained its village atmosphere.