Chichester, England: The Ultimate Travel Guide 2025

Chichester

Chichester, a cathedral city in West Sussex, holds significant historical importance with traces of Roman settlement evident throughout the city. Roman baths, a city wall (later replaced by a Georgian wall), an amphitheatre (now transformed into a park), and the ancient Roman road known as State Street connecting Chichester to London all stand as reminders of its Roman past.

The city boasts numerous grade II listed buildings, adding to its architectural charm. Among its notable landmarks is the Chichester City Cross, a unique butter market located at the intersection of North, East, South, and West streets. Constructed in 1500 by Bishop Edward Storey, the City Cross served as a shelter for merchants selling their goods during market days.

History of Chichester

Chichester: Roman Origins

Chichester, originally known as Noviomagus Reginorum, was founded by the Romans in the 1st century AD. It served as an important Roman settlement and military base.

Chichester: Medieval Era

In the medieval period, Chichester became a thriving market town. The construction of Chichester Cathedral began in 1075, and it has been a significant landmark ever since.

Chichester: Modern Development

Chichester has grown into a bustling city while preserving its rich history. The city boasts a mix of ancient and modern attractions, making it a popular destination for visitors.

Visiting Chichester for the first time and wondering what are the top places to see in the city? In this complete guide, I share the best things to do in Chichester on the first visit. To help you plan your trip, I have also included an interactive map and practical tips for visiting!

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8 Best places to See in Chichester

This complete guide to Chichester not only tells you about the very best sights and tourist attractions for first-time visitors to the city but also provide insights into a few of our personal favorite things to do.

This is a practical guide to visiting the best places to see in Chichester and is filled with tips and info that should answer all your questions!

Pallant House Gallery

Pallant House Chichester
CC BY-SA 3.0 / PeterSymonds
Pallant House Gallery is one of the top attractions in Chichester for art lovers, celebrated for its exceptional collection of 20th-century British art and its thoughtful combination of historic and modern architecture. Founded in 1977, the gallery has earned national acclaim for showcasing works by leading British artists such as Henry Moore, Barbara Hepworth, and John Piper, alongside notable European…
Location: Pallant House Gallery, North Pallant, Chichester, UK | Hours: Tuesday – Saturday: 10am – 5pm Sunday/Bank Holidays: 11am – 5pm Mondays: Closed | Price: Adults – £14.00 | Website | Distance: 149.7km
Visiting Pallant House Gallery

Here is a complete selection of hotel options in Chichester. Feel free to review each one and choose the stay that best suits your needs.

Market Cross

The Cross And The Cathedral
CC BY-SA 3.0 / Mark Botham
The Chichester Market Cross, also known simply as the Chichester Cross, is one of the most iconic historic landmarks in the city. Standing at the meeting point of Chichester’s ancient Roman streets, this ornate late-15th-century structure is one of the best places to visit in Chichester for architecture lovers, history enthusiasts, and anyone exploring the city on foot. Its intricate…
Location: Chichester Cross, South Street, Chichester, UK | Hours: 24 Hours | Price: Free | Distance: 149.7km
Visiting Market Cross

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Chichester Walls Walk

Lower Walls Walk Chichester
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Simon Burchell
Chichester City Walls are one of the best places to visit in Chichester for anyone interested in Roman Britain, medieval fortifications, or scenic historic walks. Encircling the heart of the city for over 1.5 miles, these impressive walls are among the best-preserved Roman defences in England. Their elevated paths, surviving masonry, and interpretive panels make them an accessible and rewarding…
Location: City Walls Walk, Northgate, Chichester, UK | Hours: 24 Hours | Price: Free | Website | Distance: 149.7km
Visiting Chichester Walls Walk

Chichester Cathedral

Chichester Cathedral
Chichester Cathedral is one of southern England’s most admired ecclesiastical landmarks, combining nearly a thousand years of architectural evolution with a calm, contemplative atmosphere. With its origins rooted in the 11th century, the cathedral has grown into one of the best places to visit in Chichester for lovers of medieval history, Gothic design, sacred art, and choral music. Its distinctive…
Location: Chichester Cathedral, Chichester, UK | Hours: Monday - Saturday (9.00am - 5.00pm) and Sunday (12.30pm - 2.30pm). | Price: Donations welcome | Website | Distance: 149.7km
Visiting Chichester Cathedral

Novium Museum

Novium Museum Chichester
CC BY-SA 2.0 / Basher Eyre
The Novium Museum is one of the top attractions in Chichester for history lovers, especially those fascinated by Roman Britain. Built directly over the remains of a 2,000-year-old Roman bathhouse, this award-winning museum provides an engaging look into ancient life through immersive exhibits, beautifully preserved artefacts, and interactive displays. Its central location makes it easy to explore during a stroll…
Location: The Novium Museum, Tower Street, Chichester, UK | Hours: Tuesday - Friday 10am - 4.30pm, Saturday 10am - 5pm, Sunday 10am - 4pm | Website | Distance: 149.7km
Visiting Novium Museum

Chichester Festival Theatre

Chichester Festival Theatre
CC BY-SA 2.0 / Paul Gillett
Chichester Festival Theatre (CFT) is one of the most celebrated cultural institutions in the UK, renowned for its bold productions, outstanding performers, and distinctive modernist design. Opened in 1962, the theatre quickly became one of the top attractions in Chichester, establishing a national reputation for staging innovative revivals, new plays, and major musicals. Its unique hexagonal auditorium, inspired by the…
Location: Chichester Festival Theatre, Oaklands Way, Chichester, UK | Distance: 149.7km
Visiting Chichester Festival Theatre

Bishop's Palace Gardens

Chichester Bishops Palace Garden
CC BY-SA 2.0 / Ian Cunliffe
Bishop’s Palace Gardens is one of Chichester’s most charming hidden gems, located just a short stroll west of Chichester Cathedral. Dating back to around 1147, these elegant gardens are one of the best places to visit in Chichester for travellers seeking calm, greenery, and a moment of respite from the bustling city streets. Surprisingly overlooked by many visitors, the gardens…
Location: Bishop's Palace Garden, Canon Lane, Chichester, UK | Distance: 149.7km
Visiting Bishop's Palace Gardens

Fishbourne Roman Palace

Dolphin Mosaic Fishbourne Roman Palace
Public Domain / Charlesdrakew
Fishbourne Roman Palace is one of the top sights in Chichester and one of the most extraordinary Roman sites in Britain. Discovered by chance in the 1960s, this vast palace—larger than Buckingham Palace—dates back to the late 1st century AD and offers a remarkable window into elite Roman life. Its spectacular mosaics, including the world-famous Cupid and Dolphin mosaic, make…
Location: Fishbourne Roman Palace, Roman Way, Chichester, UK | Hours: 10:00–17:00 (seasonal variations). | Price: Adults: £13.95 | Website | Distance: 149.7km
Visiting Fishbourne Roman Palace

Best Day Trips from Chichester

A day trip from Chichester offers the perfect opportunity to escape the urban rhythm and discover the surrounding region's charm. Whether you're drawn to scenic countryside, historic villages, or cultural landmarks, the area around Chichester provides a variety of easy-to-reach destinations ideal for a one-day itinerary.

Brighton

Brighton Pier
Visiting Brighton, nestled on the coast of East Sussex in South East England, is a refreshing blend of seaside charm and lively urban culture. The city’s pebbled beach and iconic pier are classic attractions, offering fairground rides, arcade games, and sweeping sea views. A stroll along the promenade, especially at sunset, is a quintessential Brighton experience, with the sound of…
Visiting Brighton

Winchester

Winchester
Situated at the western edge of the South Downs National Park, Winchester beckons with its rich history, remarkable heritage, and captivating medieval architecture. The city boasts a vibrant atmosphere, with bustling market stalls and a wide array of award-winning eateries, making it an ideal destination for a memorable short break. As England's ancient capital and the historic seat of Alfred…
Visiting Winchester
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Southampton

Ferry Southampton
Southampton, located on England’s south coast in Hampshire, is a vibrant port city that offers a well-balanced mix of maritime heritage, green open spaces, and modern urban living. Visitors often start their exploration around the bustling waterfront, where cruise ships dock and leisure boats sail by. The area around Ocean Village Marina is especially appealing, filled with restaurants, cafés, and…
Visiting Southampton
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Poole

Dorset Jurassic Coast
Visiting Poole offers a charming coastal experience in the South West of England, set along the beautiful Dorset coastline. The town is renowned for its expansive natural harbour, one of the largest in Europe, which provides a stunning backdrop for exploring the area’s maritime activities. Visitors can enjoy a variety of water sports, boat trips to nearby islands, and peaceful…
Visiting Poole
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London

London
London, located in the southeastern part of England, is a vibrant and diverse global city offering something for every type of visitor. The city’s iconic skyline features a blend of historic landmarks and modern architecture, creating a dynamic atmosphere that is both rich in culture and innovation. From world-famous museums and galleries to bustling markets and theatres, London provides countless…
Visiting London
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Oxford

Oxford
Visiting Oxford offers a unique blend of rich academic tradition and vibrant modern culture, all set within the picturesque landscape of South East England. The city is renowned for its stunning architecture, beautiful college gardens, and charming cobbled streets that invite exploration. Whether wandering through the historic university buildings or enjoying a leisurely punt along the River Cherwell, Oxford presents…
Visiting Oxford
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Bath

Puente Pulteney, Bath
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Diego Delso
Visiting Bath is a rewarding experience, set in the scenic South West of England. The city is renowned for its stunning Georgian architecture and compact layout, making it easy to explore on foot. Bath offers a rich cultural scene, with numerous theatres, galleries, and festivals taking place throughout the year. Visitors often enjoy leisurely walks along the River Avon and…
Visiting Bath
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Canterbury

England Canterbury
Visiting Canterbury offers a charming blend of culture, architecture, and vibrant city life nestled in the heart of Kent. The city’s compact centre makes it perfect for exploring on foot, with plenty of quaint streets lined with independent shops, cafes, and restaurants. Whether you’re interested in browsing artisan markets or enjoying traditional English pubs, Canterbury provides a welcoming atmosphere that…
Visiting Canterbury

Bristol

Bristol
Visiting Bristol offers a dynamic experience in the South West of England, combining vibrant city life with rich cultural attractions. The city is well known for its lively harbourside, where visitors can enjoy a mix of restaurants, bars, and galleries along the waterfront. Bristol’s compact city centre makes it easy to explore on foot, with a blend of historic architecture…
Visiting Bristol
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Dover

White Cliffs Dover
Visiting Dover, located in the county of Kent in South East England, offers a memorable experience shaped by dramatic coastal scenery and a strong sense of place. One of the town’s most famous features is its breathtaking cliffs. A walk along the White Cliffs of Dover provides panoramic views over the English Channel and, on clear days, even to France.…
Visiting Dover
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Where to Stay in Chichester

The city centre of Chichester is perfect for visitors who want to be within easy walking distance of the Cathedral, shopping streets, and historic sites. Here you will find charming boutique hotels and comfortable inns. A great option is The Spread Eagle Hotel & Spa, which combines period features with modern luxury, including a spa and fine dining. Another popular choice in the heart of the city is The George Hotel, known for its welcoming atmosphere and proximity to local restaurants and theatres.

For those seeking a quieter stay near green spaces, the area around Chichester Canal and the nearby parklands offers a more relaxed environment while still being close to the centre. Chichester Harbour Hotel provides a comfortable base with easy access to coastal walks and nature reserves. Alternatively, the suburban area of Tangmere, just a few miles north of Chichester, offers countryside charm with convenient road links. Here, The Fox Goes Free is a cozy countryside inn with traditional English character and excellent local dining.

If you prefer accommodation near the coast, the nearby seaside towns of Bosham and West Wittering are popular options within a short drive. While technically outside Chichester itself, these areas provide beautiful beach settings and charming guesthouses such as Bosham Hotel. Staying here allows easy day trips into Chichester city while enjoying the coastal atmosphere. For travelers arriving by train or looking for convenient parking, the area close to Chichester railway station offers several chain hotels including Travelodge Chichester which combines affordability with a central location.

Using the our Hotel and Accomodation map, you can compare hotels and short-term rental accommodations in Chichester. Simply insert your travel dates and group size, and you’ll see the best deals for your stay.

Chichester Accommodation Map

Best Time to Visit Chichester

Visiting Chichester in Spring

Spring in Chichester brings blooming flowers and mild weather, perfect for exploring the city’s gardens, parks, and historic sites.

Visiting Chichester in Summer

Summer offers warm temperatures and longer days, ideal for enjoying outdoor festivals, events, and the beautiful South Downs National Park nearby.

Visiting Chichester in Autumn

Autumn provides cooler temperatures and stunning foliage, making it a great time for scenic walks, visiting museums, and enjoying local cuisine.

Visiting Chichester in Winter

Winter in Chichester is magical with festive markets, Christmas lights, and cozy cafes. It’s a wonderful time to explore the city’s indoor attractions and historic sites.

Annual Weather Overview

  • January 8°C
  • February 8°C
  • March 10°C
  • April 14°C
  • May 16°C
  • June 19°C
  • July 21°C
  • August 22°C
  • September 18°C
  • October 15°C
  • November 11°C
  • December 10°C

How to get to Chichester

Traveling to Chichester by Train

Chichester is well-connected by train, with regular services from London, Brighton, and Portsmouth. The train station is conveniently located near the city center.

Traveling to Chichester by Car

Chichester is accessible via the A27, making it easy to reach by car. There are several parking facilities available in the city.

Traveling to Chichester by Bus

There are numerous bus services that connect Chichester with nearby towns and cities, providing an affordable and convenient way to travel.

Traveling to Chichester by Plane

The nearest major airport is London Gatwick, which is about an hour's drive from Chichester. From the airport, you can take a train or hire a car to reach the city.

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