The Great Sussex Way
Discover the Chichester District in West Sussex
Discover Chichester, the vibrant cathedral city and county capital of West Sussex. Immerse yourself in rich history with impressive Roman ruins and outstanding culture or explore the stunning countryside and rolling South Downs. Enjoy endless walking and cycling opportunities, charming towns and villages like Midhurst and Petworth, and the sparkling Sussex coast, home to beautiful beaches like West Wittering, East Wittering, Bracklesham Bay and Selsey.
Just over an hour from London and just under an hour from London Gatwick Airport, our stunning, sunny corner of Sussex is closer than you think!
The Great Sussex Way is here to help you find GREAT things to do in Chichester and the the surrounding area, read on for more ideas…
South Downs National Park
The South Downs National Park is one of the top West Sussex attractions encompassing majestic rolling hills, heathland, rivers, and more woodland that any other national park in England or Wales – including some of the most ancient forests in the country - making it a perfect playground for those who love the outdoors, whether that’s on two feet or on a bike. As well as epic walking trails including The South Downs Way, here you’ll find important habitats for wildlife, including rare species like the Adonis and Chalkhill Blue Butterflies.
West Wittering Beach
One of the South Coast’s best loved beaches, once you’ve experienced the golden sands of West Wittering beach between your toes it’s easy to see why. Long stretches of soft sand and shallow water make it perfect for families, while also offering an abundance of opportunities for adrenaline seekers to enjoy the waves. Often extremely busy in summer (we recommend booking parking to avoid disappointment), quieter spots can be found at neighbouring East Wittering or a little further along the coast at Selsey.
Goodwood
Goodwood, for many, is a name synonymous with incredible events like the Festival of Speed, the Qatar Goodwood Festival or the Goodwood Revival, which draw visitors from across the globe. The sporting country estate which covers 12,000 acres of stunning Sussex countryside is also home to a stylish Hotel and Spa, unforgettable dining experiences, golf courses, and the opportunity for high-energy adventures in the air, on the Motor Circuit and more.
Arundel Castle
Just ten miles from Chichester, discover almost a thousand years of history at Arundel Castle. A captivating day out with a huge amount original features to explore including the Norman Keep, medieval Gatehouse and the 14th Century Catholic Fitzalan Chapel, there's a huge amount to see, plus action-packed events and the annual floral celebrations each spring as the Tulip Festival and Allium Extravaganza surround the castle with vivid swathes of colour.
Exploring West Sussex this Autumn
Rolling Stones Itinerary
Follow in the footsteps of the Rolling Stones in Chichester
The Sussex Tree Trail
Follow this trail to see our most awesome trees
Free things to do
Great ideas that won't break the bank
Cycling Routes
Discover cycle routes for all
Why Visit West Sussex?
Discover not-to-be-missed places and attractions
48 Hours in Petworth
Enjoy a micro-break in Petworth
What's On
View AllArundel Tai Chi - 6 week course
Authentic Tai Chi training develops a highly capable body and mind alongside excellent health and…
Chichester District Farmers' Market
All stallholders at the Chichester Farmers' Market are required to grow, rear, bake, and/or preserve…
Heritage Open Days | West Sussex Church Wallpaintings
See extraordinary restored 14th century wallpaintings at St George's church, Trotton, West…
Leonora Carrington; Rebel Visionary
Leonora Carrington: Rebel Visionary (12 July – 26 October) will re-examine the work of one of…
Lunchtime Concerts at Chichester Cathedral
Each Tuesday at 1.10pm (apart from during school holidays) the Cathedral hosts a lunchtime concert…
Pallant House Gallery - Summer Lates
Our courtyard garden is one of Chichester's beautiful hidden spaces and there is no better place…
Qigong at Cowdray Hall
6 Mondays, 10-11am @ Cowdray Hall, GU29 0AW. Join Sam to learn and practise a selection of the most…
Significant Objects: The Things That Matter
Inspired by the The Shape of Things: Still Life in Britain's exploration of still life, artists…
Tai Chi in the Park
Spending time in nature is highly beneficial, especially when combined with some quality training…
The National Garden Scheme: Garden open by arrangement: Berlas, Midhurst
The National Garden Scheme: Garden open by arrangement: Berlas, Midhurst…
The Shape of Things: Still Life in Britain
The Shape of Things questions the idea that still life is a lesser genre, showing how important it…
The Spy Who Came In From The Cold
At the height of the Cold War, disillusioned British spy Alec Leamas is persuaded by the head of The…
Dinosaurs: Hungry Hatchlings
Join us at the museum to explore new eggciting exhibition Dinosaurs: Hungry Hatchlings…
National Garden Scheme: Event: Ashling Park Estate
A truly fascinating vineyard tour with wine tasting that starts promptly at 10am. First created in…
National Garden Scheme; The Old Vicarage
The National Garden Scheme: Open Garden: The Old Vicarage Washington The 3½ acre garden at…
Heritage Open Day: La Diva Show Choir at The Guildhall
We're inviting you to a very special free lunchtime show in The Guildhall, Priory Park. La Diva…
Shippam's Project - Heritage Open Day
To celebrate this year's Heritage Open Days, we're inviting you to join us to hear about how…
Guided Walk: Migration Magic.
Guided Walk: Migration Magic. It's the start of the autumn migration and many of the birds that…
Heritage Open Days - Pallant House Gallery
Pallant House Gallery invites you to a day of creativity and discovery, free of charge., as part of…
Heritage Open Days | Fernhurst Furnace
Heritage Open Days at Fernhurst Furnace Join a free historical event at the site of the recently…
Midhurst Artisan Makers & Vintage Fair
Shop for decorative homewares, fashion, antiques and artisan products of all kinds in the heart of…
Noddy fest fun dog show and Fete
We are holding our annual Fun dog show and Fete on Saturday 14th September. There will be lots of…
Petworth Heritage Weekend
Petworth's heritage celebrations return, showcasing the area's heritage highlights set…
South Downs Food Festival
Celebrate the revival of British food culture. Exploring our past and championing our future with…
Cycling at Goodwood Motor Circuit
Cycle your way around Goodwood Motor Circuit in a safe and controlled environment, away from traffic…
Things to Do
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Image: Joanna Kaczorowska