Stays in Chichester
Chichester is a cathedral city in West Sussex, England, with roots going back to Roman times. Its compact centre is still enclosed by largely intact city walls, and the four main streets meet at the 18th-century Market Cross. Chichester Cathedral, begun in the 11th century and rebuilt after a later…
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About Chichester
The city has a strong cultural life. Chichester Festival Theatre, founded in 1962, is one of the UK's leading producing theatres, and Pallant House Gallery holds a notable collection of modern British art. The shopping streets are mostly pedestrianised, with a mix of national chains and independent shops. To the south, Chichester Harbour is an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, popular with sailors and birdwatchers. The South Downs National Park begins just north of the city, offering walking and cycling routes.
Where to stay in Chichester
City centre. The area around North, South, East and West Streets puts you within walking distance of the cathedral, Market Cross and Festival Theatre.
Chichester Harbour. Villages such as Bosham and Itchenor lie south of the city, offering waterside settings and easy access to the harbour's walking trails.
Goodwood. The Goodwood Estate, a few miles north-east of Chichester, is home to the racecourse, motor circuit and the annual Festival of Speed and Revival meetings.
Nearby villages. Places like Singleton and West Dean, in the South Downs, provide quieter bases with countryside views and historic houses.
Getting there and around
Chichester is on the West Coastway railway line, with direct trains from London Victoria, Brighton, Portsmouth and Southampton. The journey from London takes roughly an hour and a half. By road, the A27 runs along the south of the city, connecting to the A3 and M27. Coach services also stop in Chichester. Within the city, the centre is compact and walkable; local buses serve the suburbs and nearby villages, and taxis are available. Cycling is popular on the flat coastal plain, and the South Downs are easily reached by bike or on foot from the city.
When to go
Late spring to early autumn is generally the most pleasant time to visit, with longer days and warmer weather for exploring the city and the South Downs. Summer brings events such as the Chichester Festival Theatre season and the Goodwood Festival of Speed, which can make accommodation busier. Winter is quieter, though the cathedral and galleries remain open year-round. Rain is possible in any month, so pack layers and a waterproof.
Questions, answered
What is Chichester known for?
Chichester is known for its Norman cathedral, Roman walls, the Festival Theatre and its proximity to Chichester Harbour and the South Downs.
How do I get to Chichester from London?
Direct trains run from London Victoria to Chichester, taking about an hour and a half. By car, take the A3 and then the A27.
Is Chichester a good base for exploring the South Downs?
Yes. The South Downs National Park starts just north of the city, and there are bus and cycle routes to villages like Singleton and West Dean.
What is there to do in Chichester on a rainy day?
You can visit Chichester Cathedral, Pallant House Gallery, the Novium Museum or the Weald and Downland Living Museum, which has indoor exhibits.
Are there beaches near Chichester?
The nearest beaches are along the coast south of Chichester, such as West Wittering, which is a short drive away.
What events take place in Chichester?
Chichester Festival Theatre runs a summer season, and the Goodwood Estate hosts the Festival of Speed and the Revival, usually in summer and early autumn.