Best Art Experiences in West Sussex

Nestled in the heart of Chichester, Pallant House Gallery is a must-visit destination for lovers of Modern British art. Housed in a striking blend of Queen Anne architecture and contemporary design, this acclaimed public gallery showcases iconic works by Lucian Freud, Barbara Hepworth, Grayson Perry and more. Through bold exhibitions and immersive installations, the gallery redefines how we experience 20th and 21st-century art.

Visitors can explore a dynamic calendar of talks, tours, and creative workshops. Art enthusiasts will also love the award-winning bookshop, which offers rare and out-of-print titles, exclusive prints, and curated gifts.

After your art-filled journey, relax in the gallery café with seasonal dishes made from local ingredients. Whether you’re enjoying a sunny afternoon in the sculpture-lined courtyard or a quiet coffee indoors, Pallant House offers the perfect blend of culture and comfort.

Plan your visit today and discover a fresh perspective on British art.

Looking for a cultural day out in a quintessential English market town? Newlands House Gallery in Petworth, West Sussex, is a must-visit destination for art lovers. Housed in a grand 18th-century townhouse in the heart of the South Downs, the gallery brings international modern and contemporary art to the countryside.

Spanning 7,500 sq. ft. and 12 beautifully curated rooms, Newlands House Gallery hosts four major exhibitions each year. Expect world-renowned artists in modern and contemporary art, photography, design, and architecture. The gallery continues to attract global attention with its ambitious programming and commitment to quality.

After soaking in the creative atmosphere, unwind in the serene gardens at the Hungry Guest café. This charming alfresco spot offers light bites, breakfasts, and refreshing drinks - perfect for a coffee and chat about the exhibition.

Combine your love for art and good food in one of England’s most picturesque settings.

Petworth House, set in the heart of the South Downs, is home to one of the finest art and sculpture collections in the National Trust. Designed to reflect the taste and artistic patronage of its generations of owners, the house offers a remarkable journey through British and European art history.

The North Gallery, created by the third Earl of Egremont (1751–1837), was specifically designed to showcase masterpieces—most notably works commissioned from JMW Turner. Visitors can also admire paintings by Van Dyck, Gainsborough, Reynolds and Blake, making it a must-visit for art lovers.

Among Petworth’s many treasures is a rare 1592 English terrestial globe, believed to be the only surviving one of its kind and an early manuscript of Chaucer’s Canterbury Tales.

With over 9,000 objects on display, including silver, ceramics, and rare manuscripts, Petworth House offers a rich and immersive cultural experience for all visitors.

The Goodwood Art Foundation is a groundbreaking contemporary art destination set within the historic Goodwood Estate in West Sussex. This not-for-profit cultural hub showcases visionary works by leading international artists across indoor gallery spaces and a breathtaking 70-acre landscape, thoughtfully designed by acclaimed landscape architect Dan Pearson.

Art seamlessly integrates with nature here, as installations are nestled among ancient woodland, wildflower meadows and peaceful forest glades. More than just a gallery, the Foundation champions three vital pillars: art, environment, and education. Its mission is to inspire creativity, promote well-being, and deepen connections between people and the natural world through immersive art experiences.

Rooted in Goodwood’s artistic heritage, it promises a rich and reflective journey for visitors. After exploring, relax at 24 Café, serving locally sourced dishes amid stunning sea views.

Advance booking is recommended for this unique art destination celebrating innovation, nature, and community.

Chichester Cathedral is a remarkable fusion of faith and visual beauty, showcasing a diverse range of art that spans centuries. From medieval wall paintings and intricate sculptural reliefs to Victorian stained glass and powerful contemporary artworks, the Cathedral is a living gallery that reflects a long tradition of spiritual creativity.

Renowned for its commitment to art, Chichester Cathedral maintains a vibrant programme of permanennt and temporary exhibitions, welcoming visitors to explore both historic and modern expressions of faith through art.

A pivotal figure in this artistic legacy is Walter Hussey, former Dean of Chichester, who commissioned leading modern artists such as Henry Moore, Graham Sutherland and John Piper to create works for the cathedral. His vision helped inspire the founding of Pallant House Gallery. The current Dean's 9.5 Things to Discover at Chichester Cathedral is a curated guide to the Cathedral's most notable artistic treasures.

Goodwood House, at the heart of the Goodwood Estate, is a treasure trove of artistic and historic splendour. Open to the public on select Sundays and Mondays, this grand estate houses an exceptional art collection, including masterpieces by Canaletto and George Stubbs. These celebrated works offer a rare glimpse into the grandeur and patronage of British aristocracy.

Each year from August to October, Goodwood House hosts a themed exhibition highlighting its rich cultural legacy. Past exhibitions like Royal Goodwood, Glorious Goodwood have explored the estate’s royal connections, military past, and sporting heritage—drawing art and history lovers from across the UK.

Visitors can tour the State Apartments and Old House at their leisure, guided by knowledgeable staff in each room. For a truly indulgent experience, combine your visit with a traditional afternoon tea served in the elegant ballroom—an artful delight in itself. Advance booking is recommended.

Looking for a truly unique art experience in West Sussex? Step into the surreal world of a West Dean House Tour, nestled in the breathtaking South Downs countryside. Once the family home of Edward James – a key patron of the Surrealist movement and founder of the College – this flint-faced manor house offers a rare glimpse into a world where imagination reigns supreme.

Visitors will be delighted by iconic Surrealist works and rare objects, including:

• Salvador Dalí’s Mae West Lips Sofa – a bold, provocative piece that blurs the line between furniture and fantasy.
• The famous Lobster Telephone – an absurdist classic that perfectly captures the playfulness of the movement.
• Paintings, drawings, and surreal interior designs – each telling a part of the story of James’s visionary taste and his role in shaping modern art including pieces by Leonord Carrington, René Magritte and Picasso.

Upcoming summer tour dates. Tuesday, 16th July 2025 and Wednesday, 27th August 2025

West Dean College is set within stunning parkland, just a short drive from Chichester. Extend your visit by exploring the renowned West Dean Gardens, grabbing a bite at the café, or browsing the College’s unique art and craft courses.

Follow the inaugural Petworth Art & Antiques Trail, a vibrant celebration of creativity, heritage, and fine craftsmanship running from 19-21 June. This exciting new event brings together leading galleries, dealers, and artists in the historic market town of Petworth, West Sussex.

The trail kicks off with a special Evening Viewing on Thursday 19 June, 5–8pm, followed by a weekend full of exhibitions, pop-ups, and engaging talks.

Highlights include: 

·       Newlands House Gallery: Andy Warhol and Sussex Craft finalists

·       Kevis House Gallery: Chris Orr RA book signing and printmaking talk

·       Petworth House: Turner’s Vision exhibition launch

·       Ottocento: Expert insights into handmade period frames

·       Rountree Tyron Gallery: Birds of the World exhibition

·       Plus: handcrafted Syrian glass at Tallulah Fox and antique showcases across town

Celebrate Petworth’s artistic spirit in this unmissable cultural weekend!

Located within Chichester’s historic Roman walls, Fernleigh is a beautifully restored Georgian building that blends heritage with modern hospitality. Alongside its café, bar, gym, and wellness spaces, Fernleigh is also home to a vibrant and evolving art collection by YAP (Young Artists Partnership), supporting the Chichester-based homeless charity Stonepillow.

YAP, founded by Louisa Higgs and Annabel Seal, champions emerging artists by offering them vital exposure, mentorship from established creatives, and commercial opportunities. Their expertly curated exhibitions at Fernleigh present a rotating showcase of fresh artistic talent, making high-quality contemporary art accessible to all.

Visitors can admire the artwork as part of their experience, enjoy insightful exhibitions, and even purchase pieces, supporting both young artists and charitable causes. Whether you're an art collector or simply curious, Fernleigh provides a unique cultural experience in the heart of the city. Discover the next generation of artists in an inspiring setting.

Chichester’s streets are alive with colour, creativity, and cultural flair thanks to the city’s iconic Street Art Trail. Originally sparked by the 2013 Chichester Street Art Festival—curated by Richard Howard-Griffin—this open-air gallery showcases powerful works by world-renowned artists like Stik, Liqen, and Thierry Noir. Their bold, thought-provoking murals still grace Chichester’s walls a decade on, offering a visual journey through urban expression.

To celebrate this artistic legacy, local street art hunter Ali Richards has mapped a must-follow route, revealing hidden gems and iconic pieces throughout the city.

Enhancing Chichester’s creative pulse is GraffitiStreet, an independent gallery founded by Rosh and Donna in 2014. Now housed in a restored Victorian building, it features original works by legends like Banksy and Invader. Whether you're an art lover or urban explorer, Chichester’s Street Art Trail offers an inspiring, Instagram-worthy experience that redefines public art.

The Chichester Open Studios Art Trail  is a unique annual event that invites the public into the working studios of local artists across the Chichester area. Since its launch in 2001 as “Open Doors,” the trail has become a highlight of the Chichester art calendar, offering visitors a chance to explore the creative process firsthand.

Spanning six distinct areas - City, Eastward, Seaside, Peninsula, Harbour and Downs - the trail showcases a wide range of artistic styles, from painting and sculpture to ceramics and photography. Whether you're an art collector or simply curious, it’s a fantastic opportunity to meet artists, view original work, and discover the stories behind each piece.

With a growing community of emerging and established artists, Chichester Open Studios celebrates the rich cultural talent in the region. Explore at your own pace, support local creativity, and experience art where it’s made. A must-see event for art lovers.

Chichester is alive with artistic energy, and two standout venues place art at the core of community life.

Oxmarket Contemporary, housed in a stunning Grade II listed medieval church, is a thriving hub for artists and art lovers alike. Run by passionate volunteers, this registered charity hosts over 150 high-quality exhibitions each year. From fine art to contemporary craft and design, Oxmarket offers a modern exhibition space in a beautiful historic setting—making it a must-visit cultural destination in West Sussex.

Just a short stroll away, Creative Beatz and its vibrant Jam Café offer a fresh, youth-focused take on the arts. This dynamic charity provides creative workshops, drop-ins, and open mic nights for young people to develop and share their talents. All profits from the café support these vital programs. With live music, crafting activities, and delicious toasties, it’s where community and creativity truly collide.