Chichester offers several distinct starting points for a stay: the cathedral’s architecture, which reaches far back in time; Roman traces at the Novium Museum; an arts festival; and trails for a range of interests. When planning, you can first consider whether architectural and urban history, a cultural programme tied to specific dates, or routes and green spaces should shape your visit.
Cathedral, Guildhall and the city’s history
Chichester Cathedral is a Grade I listed building; its architecture spans more than nine centuries. It offers guided tours led by knowledgeable members of its tour team. For another perspective, visitors can climb the tower on a tour with knowledgeable volunteer guides and experience more than 950 years of history. The guided tour and tower climb are separate offerings; tour arrangements may change. Check the latest information if a tour is important to your visit.
The Guildhall is also a Grade I listed building and has a history spanning 800 years. Chichester City Walls were probably built before the end of the 2nd century AD. These dates refer to different historical aspects: the cathedral’s architectural development, the history of the Guildhall, and the cautiously dated construction of the city walls. For heritage walking trails, the Chichester Society has published eight downloadable options that you can consult while preparing for your visit.
Roman traces and changing exhibitions
The Novium Museum was built over the excavated archaeological remains of Chichester’s Roman bathhouse. The Chilgrove Mosaic is displayed in the Roman Chichester Gallery. The top floor houses touring and temporary exhibitions. Displays and exhibitions may change. If a particular object or exhibition is central to your visit, check the latest information beforehand.
Arts programme in June and July
The Festival of Chichester is a month-long arts festival held in Chichester every year in June and July. It features around 100 events, including concerts, theatre performances, talks, poetry events and guided walks. Its range offers different ways to engage with arts and culture, without any one format defining the festival. Dates and the programme may change from year to year. If you want to coordinate your stay with the festival, check the specific event dates before planning.
Trails, trees and a public park
The Chichester Tree Trail is 1.5 miles long and leads to interesting trees within the city walls. The four-mile towpath along the Chichester Canal can be used by walkers, runners and cyclists. The differences are clear: the Tree Trail is shorter and focused on trees, while the towpath is longer and also used for running and cycling. You can take the trail’s theme and stated length into account when choosing.
Bishop’s Palace Gardens is a public park maintained by the city. Together with the two trails of different lengths, it offers another focus for time outdoors. Whether you prefer a tree-themed route, the towpath or a public park depends on the kind of exploration you want to include in your stay.
Discover more destinations: Barnham, Rustington, Pagham, Trotton, Pulborough, Arundel, Haywards Heath, Westbourne.
For the regional travel overview: West Sussex.
