With the rolling South Downs to the North, the coastal Harbour to the South and a central cityscape, complete with a stunning cathedral, Chichester offers the perfect destination for a city, coast or countryside visit. Indulge in fine food, luxurious accommodation, adventurous activities and bountiful culture with every sense inspired and every budget catered for.
Find out more at the official site for Chichester here
In the surrounding countryside, you will find an abundance of award-winning country pubs; woodland walks and stunning traditional market towns. Be sure not to miss Kingley Vale, the UK’s oldest yew forest; the striking scenery of the South Downs and the quaint market towns of Petworth and Midhurst, which are ideal for antiques. Steeped in history, Chichester is also home to Fishbourne Roman Palace, fascinating city walls and a huge array of historical estates, such as Parham House, Petworth house and Uppark.
Meanwhile the coastline near Chichester offers long sandy green flag beaches, green spaces and natural wildlife. The energetic can get an adrenaline rush with extreme water sports company X-train or for more relaxed fun there are also plenty of harbour side activities including fly-fishing. Other coastal secrets include: picnicking on the sandy beaches of Bracklesham Bay, walks around East Head’s wild and unspoilt grassy sand dunes and visiting the Selsey Lifeboat Station and its museum – with the chance of catching a lifeboat launch and rescue in action.
The city itself is famed for its 900 year old cathedral, whilst in modern times it has become the arts hub of the South, rivalling London’s modern art scene. The Chichester Festival Theatre, Pallant House Gallery and West Dean Foundation all showcase a series of high profile events and exhibitions throughout the year. Not to be missed is the Cass Sculpture Foundation, where you will mesmerised by 21st century British sculpture deep in the heart of the countryside.