West Itchenor takes its name from the chieftain Icca, who laid claim to its shoreline, and was originally known as Iccanore ('Icca's shore').

The Domesday Book of 1086 names the village as Icenore,[4] with six households,[5] and notes that the land was held by Warin, a vassal of "Earl Roger" who invaded England with William the Conqueror.

Towards the end of the 19th century, West Itchenor became a popular destination for Londoners who could afford a second home in the countryside and the cost of travelling there.

This wartime activity made West Itchenor a restricted area and required residents to produce identification papers as they entered the village.

[12] In 1800 the Transit, a 101 ft long, four-masted barquentine weighing 200 tons, was built at the yard and is said to have been revolutionary in the design of its hull and rig.

[13] In April 2013 it was reported that Northshore was experiencing financial difficulties and that the future of the boatbuilding company and its estimated 160 employees is in doubt.

In representing the people of the parish, the councillors meet monthly to discuss matters including planning, community engagement and finance.

The village also falls under West Wittering electoral ward which returns two members to sit on Chichester District Council.