Things to Do in Chichester

Things to Do in Chichester

Chichester, a historic city in West Sussex, England, is a captivating blend of Roman heritage, cultural vibrancy, and natural beauty. Often cited as one of the UK’s sunniest places, it boasts a rich history dating back to Roman times, with landmarks like its iconic cathedral and well-preserved city walls. My first stroll through its pedestrian-friendly streets, with the cathedral’s spire piercing the sky, felt like stepping into a living history book framed by the South Downs.

Whether you’re a family seeking fun, a couple craving romance, or a solo traveler chasing culture, Chichester offers a diverse array of experiences, from indoor museums to outdoor adventures and culinary delights. Did you know Chichester’s Roman walls are among the most intact in southern England? Join us as we explore the best activities in this charming city, promising memories to cherish for years.

Indoor Activities for Rainy Days

When the British weather turns gloomy, Chichester’s indoor attractions provide engaging, family-friendly options to keep everyone entertained.

Chichester Festival Theatre

This world-class venue hosts a variety of productions, from classic plays to contemporary performances, with workshops and backstage tours adding to the experience. Its intimate setting ensures an immersive cultural outing.

• Suitability: Ideal for all ages, with family-friendly shows and activities.
• Cost: Varies by show; tickets typically £10-£40 (Chichester Festival Theatre).
• What Makes It Special: Renowned for its high-quality productions, it’s a cultural cornerstone of Chichester.
• Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible with facilities for all visitors.
• Transport Tip: A short walk from Chichester Station.

Pallant House Gallery

Housed in an 18th-century townhouse, this gallery showcases modern British art, including works by Degas, Sickert, and Freud. Temporary exhibitions and a cozy café enhance the visit.

• Suitability: Perfect for art lovers and those seeking a quiet cultural experience.
• Cost: Adults £12.50, Concessions £10, Under 18s free (Pallant House Gallery).
• What Makes It Special: Its world-class collection and historic setting make it a cultural gem.
• Accessibility: Fully accessible with lifts and ramps.

The Novium Museum

Built over a Roman bath house, this museum offers interactive exhibits on Chichester’s Roman, Saxon, and medieval history, featuring artifacts like mosaics and coins.

• Suitability: Great for families and history enthusiasts, with hands-on displays for children.
• Cost: Adults £5, Children £3, Family £12 (The Novium Museum).
• What Makes It Special: Its unique location and engaging exhibits bring Chichester’s past to life.
• Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible with lifts.

Flip Out Chichester

This trampoline park offers obstacle courses, dodgeball, and foam pits, perfect for burning off energy on a rainy day.

• Suitability: Ideal for families with children of all ages.
• Cost: From £8 per session (Flip Out Chichester).
• What Makes It Special: Its variety of activities ensures hours of active fun.
• Accessibility: Generally accessible; some areas may require assistance.

Chichester Escape Rooms

Test your wits in themed escape rooms like “Prison Break” or “The Lost Temple,” offering fun challenges for groups.

• Suitability: Best for older children and adults.
• Cost: From £20 per person (Chichester Escape Rooms).
• What Makes It Special: The immersive themes make for an exciting group activity.
• Accessibility: May have physical requirements; contact for details.

These indoor attractions ensure rainy days in Chichester are filled with fun and learning, easily accessible by foot or public transport.

Outdoor Adventures

When the sun shines, Chichester’s natural beauty and historic sites offer exciting outdoor experiences for all.

Chichester Harbour

This Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty is perfect for sailing, birdwatching, or scenic walks along the largest undeveloped coastline in southern England. Spot curlews and oystercatchers in winter.

• Suitability: Great for families, couples, and nature lovers.
• Cost: Free to visit; sailing or boat hire extra (Chichester Harbour).
• What Makes It Special: Its pristine landscapes and rich wildlife make it a serene escape.
• Seasonal Tip: Winter is ideal for birdwatching, summer for sailing.
• Accessibility: Varies; some paths are paved, others uneven.

West Dean Gardens

These stunning gardens feature a kitchen garden, Edwardian pergola, sunken garden, and Victorian glasshouses, set against the South Downs.

• Suitability: Ideal for families, couples, and garden enthusiasts.
• Cost: Adults £12, Children free, Family £24 (West Dean Gardens).
• What Makes It Special: The variety of gardens and seasonal displays create a breathtaking experience.
• Seasonal Tip: Spring showcases vibrant blooms.
• Accessibility: Mostly accessible, with some uneven paths.

Weald & Downland Living Museum

This open-air museum features over 50 historic buildings, from medieval cottages to Victorian schools, with seasonal events like harvest festivals.

• Suitability: Perfect for families and history lovers.
• Cost: Adults £15.50, Children £7.50, Family £42 (Weald & Downland).
• What Makes It Special: Its living history approach offers an immersive glimpse into the past.
• Seasonal Tip: Visit during events like Guy Fawkes Day for added fun.
• Accessibility: Mostly accessible, some buildings have steps.

Chichester Canal

Enjoy a peaceful walk, cycle, or boat trip along this scenic canal, lined with butterfly sculptures and historic sites.

• Suitability: Suitable for all ages, with rowing and paddleboarding options.
• Cost: Free to walk/cycle; boat trips £8 adults, £5 children (Chichester Canal).
• What Makes It Special: Its tranquility and historical significance make it a relaxing retreat.
• Seasonal Tip: Summer is great for boat trips, autumn for colorful foliage.
• Accessibility: Paved paths ensure stroller and wheelchair access.

CASS Sculpture Foundation

Wander through 26 acres of woodland showcasing large-scale sculptures by artists like Tony Cragg and Kiki Smith, open March to November.

• Suitability: Great for art and nature lovers.
• Cost: Adults £12, Children free, Family £24 (CASS Sculpture).
• What Makes It Special: The blend of art and nature creates a unique outdoor gallery.
• Seasonal Tip: Spring and summer offer the best viewing conditions.
• Accessibility: Paved paths make it wheelchair-friendly.

These outdoor adventures highlight Chichester’s scenic and historical charm, perfect for sunny days.

Historical and Cultural Sites

Chichester’s 2,000-year history shines through its landmarks, offering insights into its Roman, medieval, and modern heritage.

Chichester Cathedral

Founded in 1075, this cathedral blends Norman and Gothic architecture, featuring a Marc Chagall window and historic murals. Guided tours reveal its rich history.

• Suitability: Open to all, with family-friendly tours.
• Cost: Free entry, donations welcome (Chichester Cathedral).
• What Makes It Special: Its artistic treasures and historical significance make it a must-visit.
• Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible.

The Novium Museum

Built over a Roman bath house, this museum showcases Chichester’s history with artifacts like mosaics and Roman coins.

• Suitability: Great for families and history buffs, with interactive displays.
• Cost: Adults £5, Children £3, Family £12 (The Novium Museum).
• What Makes It Special: Its unique setting and engaging exhibits bring history to life.
• Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible.

Fishbourne Roman Palace

The largest Roman residence in Britain, this site features stunning mosaics, wall paintings, and a reconstructed garden, just outside Chichester.

• Suitability: Ideal for families and history enthusiasts.
• Cost: Adults £12.50, Children £6.25, Family £32.50 (Fishbourne Roman Palace).
• What Makes It Special: Its well-preserved artifacts offer a vivid glimpse into Roman life.
• Accessibility: Mostly accessible, some areas have steps.

Pallant House Gallery

This 18th-century townhouse displays modern British art alongside historical architecture, with works by renowned artists.

• Suitability: Perfect for art and architecture lovers.
• Cost: Adults £12.50, Concessions £10, Under 18s free (Pallant House Gallery).
• What Makes It Special: Its blend of art and history creates a unique cultural experience.
• Accessibility: Fully accessible.

Goodwood House

This stately home offers tours of its historic rooms, gardens, and exhibitions like “HerStory: Women of Goodwood,” showcasing its cultural significance.

• Suitability: Great for families and history/art enthusiasts.
• Cost: House tour £12.50, free with Historic House Membership (Goodwood House).
• What Makes It Special: Its rich history and beautiful grounds make it a comprehensive visit.
• Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible.

These sites connect visitors to Chichester’s rich historical and cultural legacy.

Food and Culinary Experiences

Chichester’s food scene, celebrated for its quality local produce, offers diverse dining options from fine dining to casual eateries.

Dell Quay Pick Your Own

Pick seasonal fruits like strawberries or pumpkins at this family-friendly farm, with an on-site café serving homemade cakes and Jersey cream ice cream.

• Suitability: Perfect for families and food lovers.
• Cost: Varies by activity; café items from £5 (Dell Quay PYO).
• What Makes It Special: The hands-on farm experience and fresh produce make it a unique outing.

Anchor Bleu at Bosham

This waterfront restaurant serves fresh seafood, including local Selsey crab, in a picturesque harbor setting.

• Suitability: Ideal for couples and families seeking quality dining.
• Cost: Mains £15-30 (Anchor Bleu).
• What Makes It Special: Its scenic location and focus on local ingredients elevate the dining experience.

Bull’s Head, Fishbourne

A 17th-century pub offering fine food, real ales, and warm hospitality, located near Fishbourne Roman Palace.

• Suitability: Great for pub lovers and those seeking traditional British fare.
• Cost: Mains from £12 (Bull’s Head).
• What Makes It Special: Its historic charm and quality cuisine make it a local favorite.

These dining experiences showcase Chichester’s reputation for fresh, local flavors.

Seasonal Events and Festivals

Chichester’s vibrant event calendar brings its cultural and historical heritage to life with festivals for all interests.

Festival of Chichester

Running from June 14 to July 20, 2025, this month-long festival features over 100 events, including concerts, theater, talks, and guided walks.

• Suitability: Open to all ages, with diverse activities.
• Cost: Varies; many events free (Festival of Chichester).
• What Makes It Special: Its wide-ranging program celebrates Chichester’s artistic community.

Chichester Fringe

This multi-arts festival supports emerging performers with free venues, offering theater, music, and comedy.

• Suitability: Great for discovering new talent.
• Cost: Many events free; some ticketed (Chichester Fringe).
• What Makes It Special: Its focus on up-and-coming artists fosters a vibrant, inclusive atmosphere.

Roman Week

Held during May half term, this event celebrates Chichester’s Roman heritage with gladiator re-enactments and family-friendly activities.

• Suitability: Perfect for families and history enthusiasts.
• Cost: Many events free; some activities ticketed (Roman Week).
• What Makes It Special: It brings Roman history to life with engaging, educational fun.

These events ensure Chichester is lively year-round, offering inclusive entertainment.

Chichester, with its rich Roman heritage, vibrant arts scene, and stunning natural surroundings, is a destination that captivates all visitors. From the awe-inspiring Chichester Cathedral to the serene Chichester Harbour, and from the lively Festival of Chichester to cozy dining at local pubs, the city offers endless opportunities for discovery. Its compact size and pedestrian-friendly streets make exploration easy, while its proximity to the South Downs and coast adds to its charm. Whether you’re traveling with family, as a couple, or solo, Chichester promises a memorable experience filled with history, culture, and natural beauty. Pack your bags and explore this historic gem, where every visit creates lasting stories.

FAQs

What is the best time to visit Chichester?

Spring and summer (April-September) are ideal for outdoor activities and festivals like the Festival of Chichester. Winter offers quieter visits and festive events (Visit Chichester).

Is Chichester suitable for families with young children?

Yes, attractions like Flip Out Chichester, Weald & Downland Living Museum, and Dell Quay Pick Your Own are perfect for kids, with many sites offering family-friendly activities.

How much does a day in Chichester cost?

A day in Chichester can cost £10-50 per person, depending on activities and dining. Free attractions like Chichester Cathedral help keep costs low.

What are the top free activities in Chichester?

Visit Chichester Cathedral, walk the Roman walls, explore Priory Park, or enjoy Bishop’s Palace Gardens for budget-friendly fun.

How do I get around Chichester?

Chichester’s compact center is walkable, with buses and trains connecting to nearby sites. Cycling is popular along the canal (Travel West Sussex).

Are there indoor activities in Chichester for rainy days?

Yes, Chichester Festival Theatre, Pallant House Gallery, The Novium Museum, Flip Out, and escape rooms offer engaging indoor options.

What makes Chichester unique compared to other UK cities?

Chichester’s intact Roman walls, stunning cathedral, and proximity to the South Downs and coast create a unique blend of history and natural beauty.

Can I find budget-friendly dining in Chichester?

Absolutely, places like Bull’s Head and Dell Quay’s café offer affordable meals, with many pubs and eateries providing budget options.

Are there guided tours in Chichester?

Yes, guided tours are available at Chichester Cathedral, Fishbourne Roman Palace, and during events like Roman Week (Visit Chichester).

What are some must-see attractions in Chichester?

Don’t miss Chichester Cathedral, The Novium Museum, Fishbourne Roman Palace, Pallant House Gallery, and Chichester Harbour for a complete experience.