A historic Roman city with picturesque cobbled streets, ancient architecture and plenty of coastal charm, Chichester is the ideal base for a dog-friendly weekend escape. Sniff out the 1.5-mile walk around the Roman city walls, browse independent shops, and visit the impressive cathedral that dominates the skyline. If you’re wondering how to spend a few days in Chichester with your four-legged friend, you’ve come to the right place.
Chichester Cathedral is dog friendly
Top dog-friendly attractions
Let’s start with the attraction you simply can’t miss – literally. Chichester Cathedral is a beautiful 900-year-old piece of architecture, with an elegant spire visible from almost every corner of the city. Head inside and explore the art and history, including Tudor paintings and the Marc Chagall stained glass window. Better yet? Furry friends are welcome on leads inside the cathedral, cloisters and grounds.
If you fancy another deep dive into history, you can visit the open-air Weald and Downland Living Museum between March and October. With your dog on a short lead, wander through the 40-acre site, which is home to historic buildings and woodland trails. By the end of your visit, you’ll have discovered the story of South East England over 1,000 years.
But that’s not all. Here are some other Chichester attractions that always set dogs' tails wagging:
- West Dean Gardens: A beautifully-restored garden sitting at the foot of the South Downs. Your dog is welcome to join you for a stroll as you admire the 300-foot Edwardian Pergola, Victorian glasshouses and 2.5-mile Arboretum. Just make sure to keep your pup on a short lead at all times.
- West Wittering Beach: One of the only sandy beaches in the area, West Wittering is popular with dog owners thanks to the long stretches of sand and sea for furry friends to splash in. Or, East Wittering serves as a great alternative if you’re looking for somewhere less sandy and a little quieter.
- Oaklands Park: Does your dog need to let off some steam? Head to the largest open space in Chichester, where your dog is welcome to roam to their heart’s content – no lead necessary.
- Priory Park: Perfect for a gentle on-lead wander, with historic ruins and peaceful green space, right in the heart of the city.
- Goodwood Estate: Goodwood is very dog-friendly and hosts an annual dog ‘Goodwoof’ packed full of activities and famous faces - a wonderful day out for you and your dog. If you’re in the area around 14th May, it’s worth checking out. Goodwoof aside, there’s 12,000 acres to explore through forests and woodlands.
Image: Goodwoof
Dog-friendly places to eat & drink
Looking for somewhere unique with lots of character? We couldn’t recommend The Duke & Rye more. They love dogs, which is obvious from the moment you see the sign outside, but also the pub is housed within the former St Peter the Great Church. The establishment has carefully preserved the building’s original character, with soaring vaulted ceilings, stained-glass windows and stone arches. Alternatively, the Park Tavern, opposite Priory Park, also has a cosy and welcoming atmosphere for you and your dog. They even host live acoustic music every Sunday, 4-6pm.
Image: The Duke & Rye
More of a cafe person? Cafe Paradiso is a cosy and welcoming vegetarian cafe with a laid-back, friendly vibe that makes it a lovely stop for a light lunch, coffee, or slice of cake with your canine companion. Locals and visitors alike praise its fresh, homemade dishes and delicious bakes – it’s definitely a favourite pit-stop after wandering around town. Dogs are welcome in the outdoor seating space, complete with a gentle ambience.
Dog-friendly walks
If you love a dog walk, then you’re in for a treat. Think salty sea air, harbour views and plenty of peaceful countryside. During your trip, potter around the historic streets near Chichester Cathedral, or one of Chichester’s best-kept secrets, the 200-year-old Chichester Canal Walk is ideal for dog walks, watersports, canoeing, fishing, boat trips and more. As you wander down the designated 4-mile footpath, you can admire views of the South Downs and Chichester Cathedral.
Back towards town, the Chichester City Walls Walk is an unmissable little route in the heart of the city. Follow the loop around the Roman walls that surround the old town and get a feel of Chichester’s ancient history. It only takes about 30-40 minutes to complete, so it’s a perfect midday stroll. We also recommend:
- Stretch those legs (or paws) along the shores of Chichester Harbour - Chichester Marina is a great starting point to explore from.
- Centurion Way: A recently extended scenic 5-mile walking trail that follows along an old railway line. The benefits are that it’s free of traffic and reasonably flat. Just watch out for any cyclists.
- The Trundle in Chichester: This one is a bit of a climb, but you’ll be rewarded with great views of the Goodwood Racecourse and far, far beyond at the top.
- Chichester to Bosham Walk: For energetic pups, this walking trail leads you through beautiful countryside before you reach the picture-perfect Bosham. The little village is postcard-perfect, with colourful cottages and pretty boats dotted along the marina. Though beware, the waterfront here disappears at high-tide so checking tide times is a must if you’re visiting. We know some four-legged friends may not mind a swim, but we doubt it’s the same for their humans!
Image: Jenna Lee
Where to stay: Honeysuckle Cottage
You’ll fall head over heels (or paws) for this beautiful cottage in North Mundham village, just two miles outside the city of Chichester. Honeysuckle Cottage is like a home-away-from-home with all the amenities you need and a private garden – not to mention the hot tub where you can unwind and watch the world go by. It’s the Ideal holiday cottage for couples looking for a peaceful retreat with their furry friend.
Explore more dog friendly things to do in West Sussex here