A Weekend in Chichester - The Great Sussex Way

Overview

Since Roman times people have flocked to Chichester for its retail opportunities and today the city still has an impressive offering of independent shops and restaurants. A mainly pedestrianised and compact city makes it easy to explore without feeling exhausted. Mix in a world class theatre, an inspirational art gallery, historic city walls and a beautiful and ancient cathedral and you won’t be short of things to do in the UK’s sunniest city.

This itinerary was written by Rachel Soothill of Brightword.

Day 1 - Morning

Hit the High Street

Spend a leisurely morning wandering the pretty streets which make up Chichester’s small but perfectly formed city centre. From the central Market Cross, the city is neatly divided by streets running North, South, East and West (thank you, Romans!) and features many historical and listed buildings housing a variety of shops, and of course cafes which present the perfect opportunity for a mid-morning refresh.

Then onwards to explore the treasure-trove of interesting shops – among your high street favourites you’ll find unique stores offering homewares and gifts where you’ll pick up something memorable.

a photo showing a shop front with window decorations Winter’s Moon, Chichester

Day 1 - Lunch

A delicious lunch awaits you. What will you choose?

With so many delicious places to eat and drink in and around Chichester we have selected just a few for you to chose from here. For our extensive list of great places to eat and drink in West Sussex take a look at our Food & Drink page.

Luckes is located in North Street and offers great organic coffee as well as artisan teas – plus cakes and perfect lunch options of salads, panini, soups and more. Vegans and vegetarians have plenty of choice here and there’s also delicious gluten and dairy free options.

Common Grounds, Chichester

Day 1 - Afternoon

Delve further to discover independent stores

There’s an eclectic mix of stores yet to explore. You’ll find fashion – from small vintage stores to regular high street chains via charity shops for preloved goodies and independent boutiques like Little London Boutique and Stephen Lawrence Menswear.

Allow plenty of time to browse books, vintage treasures, antiques, watches, jewellery, toys, flowers, foods, beauty, music and cosmetics.

Be sure to wander the many side streets and alleyways (or Pallants, as they’re known) including The Hornet, Crane Street, St Martins Street, and Baffins Lane, to discover more wonderful shops and eateries including Drapers Yard and Almshouse Arcade.

This afternoon could offer a perfect pampering opportunity. As host to many of the most glamorous events in the Sussex calendar including Glorious Goodwood and the inimitable Revival, Chichester is bursting with barbers, hair salons and pamper parlours including Scissor Shed, Pallant Hair, Posh Beauty, Jane Bulbeck, Busby & Blue, Edwards for Men and Little London Barber, to name just a few.

a photo showing Chichester City Centre
Chichester City Centre (Chichester BID)

Day 2 - Morning & afternoon

Explore Chichester's treasures

Take a meander around some of Chichester’s historic sights.

Walk the city walls. A legacy of the Romans who founded the city in the first century AD, the walls are one of the most complete examples in the UK. You get a great perspective of the city from here. To begin, walk to the top of North Street, bear west along the walls and your 1.5 mile circuit will end at Priory Park, a stunning green space with its own rich heritage.

Priory Park is home to three scheduled monuments; the Roman city walls, The Guildhall – a Grade I listed building dating back to 1282, and the remains of a Norman Motte. Fenwicks Cafe is located within the park for refreshments.

You can’t visit Chichester without exploring the city’s stunning Cathedral with its beautiful architecture that dates back to 1075. Take a tour, or explore alone. Either way, you’ll want to allow at least an hour.

You can then enjoy a few tranquil hour or so at Bishops Palace Gardens, a green oasis in the heart of the city centre with wildlife-friendly gardens that date back to 1147-1148. Take a picnic and soak up the sun, you’ll feel rejuvenated.

If you haven’t quite finished exploring, pop across the road to Chichester’s Novium Museum, where you can learn about the City’s history dating back to the Roman times.

a picture showing city walls with greenery Chichester City Walls – Chichester BID

Day 2 - Evening

Take in some theatre

No visit to Chichester is complete without visiting the world-renowned Chichester Festival Theatre.

Make an evening of it with a fine dining experience at locally owned and run Purchases Restaurant in North Street. With a delicious pre-theatre menu and extensive drinks list, you can opt to dine in the elegant setting of the restaurant or their cosy garden courtyard, which in itself is a hidden gem in Chichester.

Purchases Restaurant

Great Places to eat

Great places for lunch or dinner

Tempt your tastebuds in one of Chichester’s pubs, cafes or restaurants. Some of our favourites include Boston Tea Party, The Buttery, and Charlie Harpers to name just a few! Book ahead to secure an outdoor chalet at The Barn Little London.

a picture showing tables in outdoor chalets at a cafe
The Barn Little London, Chichester

Great Places to Stay

Great Places to Rest your Head

Find comfortable accommodation options within historic Chichester at a welcoming Bed & Breakfast, a self-catering property, or hotel.

Double room at 3 Little London Mews

Overview