Chichester Hotels

Where to stay in Chichester

Central Chichester

Staying in central Chichester means you'll have all the city's charms at your doorstep. With the stunning Chichester Cathedral just a stone's throw away, you'll find yourself amidst a delightful blend of history and modern conveniences. Whether you're after a bit of retail therapy or a cosy café for your afternoon tea, the city centre has you covered. There are accommodation options for every budget, from chic boutique hotels that won't empty your wallet to more lavish lodgings if you're feeling a bit fancy.

Near Chichester Festival Theatre

For those who fancy a bit of drama (the good kind!), staying near the Chichester Festival Theatre is a top choice. This lively district offers a range of accommodations perfect for theatre-goers, ensuring you're only a short stroll away from the evening's performance. Besides catching a show, you can enjoy delightful dining options and entertainment venues that add a sparkle to your night out.

Close to Goodwood Estate

Just a hop, skip, and a jump from Chichester, the area near the Goodwood Estate is all about luxury and relaxation. Here, you'll find posh hotels and country retreats that make for a splendid escape. Goodwood itself is a hive of activity, hosting exciting events like horse racing and vintage car shows. Plus, getting there from Chichester is a breeze, making it a convenient yet lavish choice for your stay.

Chichester Harbour area

For those who relish the great outdoors, the Chichester Harbour area is a picturesque spot to lay your head. Hotels here often boast scenic views, perfect for those Instagram-worthy snaps. With easy access to outdoor activities and water sports, it's a haven for adventurers and families alike. And speaking of families, there are plenty of family-friendly accommodations that cater to all ages.

Historic district stays

Fancy a stay that's steeped in history? The historic district of Chichester offers characterful hotels nestled within heritage buildings. These unique stays often come with stories of their own, adding a touch of intrigue to your visit. While you're there, take the opportunity to explore Chichester's rich heritage sites, making your trip both educational and enjoyable.

Petworth and surrounding countryside

For a taste of the countryside, head to Petworth and its surrounding areas. This region is dotted with charming countryside hotels and inns, perfect for nature lovers and walkers. Enjoy the serenity of the landscape and perhaps plan a day trip to the magnificent Petworth House. It's an ideal spot for those looking to unwind and soak up the rural charm.

Budget-friendly options

Travelling on a budget? No problem! Chichester offers plenty of affordable hotels that don't skimp on comfort. Savvy travellers can find tips for making the most of their stay without breaking the bank. Plus, there are nearby attractions that offer a fantastic experience without the hefty price tag, ensuring your trip is both memorable and economical.

Chichester still has its city walls, which are among the best preserved Roman walls in southern England – more than 80 per cent of the original structure is intact. In the city centre, at the intersection of its four main streets, stands Chichester Cross, the ornate stone market cross thought to date from the start of the 16th century.

Book one of our Chichester hotels and explore a city both filled with contemporary restaurants, cafes and shops, and steeped in history and culture.

Chichester Cathedral

Chichester's Norman Cathedral was consecrated in 1108, but alterations and additions over the years including its Victorian spire, mean it is a wonderful mix of architectural styles. The cathedral is famous for its impressive collection of art - it has medieval carvings, 20th-century paintings and sculptures, a window by Marc Chagall and a tapestry by John Piper. Entry to the cathedral is free, and there are free guided tours every day except Sunday.

Parks

Close to the cathedral, and bordered by the city walls, are the beautiful Bishop's Palace Gardens. You can admire climbing roses, clematis and honeysuckle, an arboretum with rare trees, Mediterranean plants, an Alpine garden, a wildlife garden designed to attract insects and birds and a pond.

Also in the city centre are the Victorian Jubilee Gardens, filled with trees and colourful flowers, and Priory Park. Here you'll find the remains of the Norman castle and the Guildhall, which is actually a 13th-century church, although it has been used by local government over the centuries. The park is often used for community events and has a play area, an aviary, a bowling green and a cricket pitch.

Museums and galleries

Chichester's museum, The Novium, houses the remains of the city's Roman baths and is built on the site of the original baths themselves. Its collection of more than 150,000 objects tells the story of the city's history, and includes Roman artefacts, historical photographs, prehistoric tools and even a mammoth's shoulder blade. Art lovers should head to the award-winning Pallant House Gallery, home to one of the country's best collections of 20th-century British art. There are works by Lucian Freud, Sir Peter Blake, Walter Sickert, Graham Sutherland, Henry Moore and many others. There's also the Otter Gallery, at the university, whose collection of modern British art includes sculptures, paintings, wall hangings, drawings, ceramics and more.

Eating and drinking

The family-owned Amelie and Friends, in a Georgian building in the city centre, has been awarded a Bib Gourmand by Michelin – yet the home-cooked food is reassuringly unpretentious. There are good vegetarian and vegan options, and on a fine day you can sit out amid the olive trees in the walled garden. For something more exotic, head to Thai House, the China Royal Chinese Restaurant or Masala Gate. Enjoy home-cooked food, real ales, a log fire and a courtyard garden at the George and Dragon, or head to The Four Chesnuts for more real ales and live music.

Must-sees in Chichester

Located on the southern coast of England, the historic city of Chichester is a popular destination that offers a perfect blend of ancient history, scenic beauty and modern attractions. As one of the oldest cities in the country, Chichester boasts a rich legacy and is home to several must-see attractions.

One of the top sights in Chichester is the magnificent Chichester Cathedral. This Romanesque and Gothic-style cathedral dates back to the 11th century and is known for its stunning architecture and intricate details. Visitors can take a guided tour or simply admire the beauty of the cathedral from the outside, visit the cathedral's gardens and take a walk around the Bishop's Palace Gardens.

For history buffs, the Roman Palace in Chichester is a must-visit attraction. This well-preserved Roman site offers a glimpse into the city's past and is home to some of the best-preserved mosaics in the country. Take a guided tour to learn about the history of the palace and imagine what life was like during the Roman era.

Nature lovers will also find plenty to explore in Chichester, with several parks and gardens scattered throughout the city. One of the most popular is the West Dean Gardens, a beautiful estate with a stunning arboretum and walled gardens. The gardens are known for their colourful flower displays and peaceful atmosphere, making it the perfect spot to relax and unwind.

For a taste of the British countryside, head to the South Downs National Park, which surrounds Chichester. This vast park offers breathtaking views, scenic walking trails and opportunities for wildlife spotting. It's a great way to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and become immersed in the natural beauty of the area.

No trip to Chichester would be complete without a visit to Chichester Market Cross. This iconic landmark is a symbol of the city and has been standing in the same spot since the 16th century. It's a great place to soak up the local atmosphere, sample some delicious food from the market stalls and maybe even catch a live performance.

Lastly, for a unique experience, the Weald and Downland Living Museum is an open-air museum that features over 50 historic buildings from the South East of England, providing a fascinating insight into rural life throughout the centuries. From traditional homes and farm buildings to a working watermill, this living museum is an engaging experience for all ages.