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 in Spring
A long weekend in Chichester and its Harbour by Rail
Image: Janet McMeekin
Great places for Sunday lunch
Our picks for a great Sunday roast in West Sussex
Great West Sussex Pubs with Walks
That classic combination for experiencing the best of West Sussex
What's On in West Sussex
View AllChichester950 Children's Trail
Join Wilfrid the Seal on a journey of discovery in Chichester Cathedral's latest family trail…
Chichester950 | Religion, Rebellion & Reformation
To mark our 950th anniversary, we are delighted to present Religion, Rebellion & Reformation, an…
Chocolate Love Match - Hotel Chocolat Chichester
An exclusive guided chocolate tasting experience Book now to join Hotel Chocolat on a tasting…
Dora Carrington: Beyond Bloomsbury
This will be the first museum exhibition of works by Dora Carrington (1893-1932) in almost 30 years…
I grew up 80s | The Novium Museum
Get ready for a hit of 80s nostalgia as I Grew Up 80s arrives at The Novium Museum, Chichester…
Jonathan and Angela Scott’s Incredible Journey
Jonathan and Angela Scott at Newlands House Gallery Jonathan and Angela Scott’s Incredible…
Little Antlers - Wild Wednesdays
Join us for some hands-on fun! Roll up your sleeves and dive into our crafts and activities…
Lloyd of the Flies Wetland Bug Hunt
Dive into the wonderful world of wetland insects with Lloyd and his new friend Dart the dragonfly…
Lunchtime Concerts at Chichester Cathedral
Each Tuesday at 1.10pm (apart from during school holidays) the Cathedral hosts a lunchtime concert…
Maggi Hambling: Nightingale Night
This exhibition features 14 new paintings by renowned artist Maggi Hambling, inspired by a night…
National Garden Scheme: The Old Vicarage Washington Open Garden
The Old Vicarage Washington is a great place to see a stunning display of Spring colour. Each year…
Petworth House & Park Spring Festival
The Petworth Spring Festival 2025 (Saturday 5 to Sunday 27 April) will include talks…
Rails to Midhurst: an illustrated talk by Bill Gage
This talk is perfect for railway enthusiasts as well as those with an interest in social history…
Summer junior golf camps | Goodwood
A fun environment for young golfers aged 5-13 to help them learn how to golf and develop new skills…
Evening Cabaret in collaboration with Show Girl
Show Girl at Petworth takes over the Garden Theatre during our Spring Festival. This cabaret evening…
The Government Inspector
The bureaucrats in a remote provincial town are panicking. Word has gone round that a bigwig…
Petworth Farmers' Market
Explore local goods and artisan produce at this monthly farmers' market held in the Market…
Yoga and Wellbeing Workshop
Join us for a monthly yoga workshop at the New Park Centre in Chichester. Gentle mindful movement…
Marine Ecology Walks
Our beaches are full of marine life just waiting for you to discover them; however, it can be small…
The National Garden Scheme: Manor of Dean: Open Garden
Approx 3 acres of traditional English garden with extensive views of the South Downs. Herbaceous…
The National Garden Scheme: Sandhill Farm House Rogate: Open Garden
Sandhill Farm House Home of author and principal of The English Gardening School. Front and rear…
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Things to Do in West Sussex
Explore our Towns, Villages and Coast
Image: Joanna Kaczorowska