Chichester Vacations: What To Do When You Stay in Chichester

Chichester is a cathedral city in West Sussex and there has been a settlement here since Roman times. However it was not until Anglo Saxon times that it grew in importance. When you stay in Chichester there are lots of things to do and see.

No visit to Chichester will be complete without time spent at its Cathedral. It is thought that work started on building the Cathedral in 1088 and continued for many centuries thereafter. In fact it is thought that work on the Cathedral was carried right on through to the 15th Century and because of this it has both Romanesque and Gothic styling. The current cathedral Belfry was built in 1866 to replace the one that collapsed in 1861 and which had originally been built during the 15th Century. 

Another place of interest to visit is Fishbourne Roman Palace where you can learn more about life in this part of England during the time when Roman's occupied the area. The foundations that you see were excavated between 1960 and 1968 and were actually owned by a Celtic tribal chief (Cogidubnus) who was an ally of the Romans. You will see numerous Roman pavements which show off the various different mosaic techniques that the Roman craftsmen used. 

Tangmere Military Aviation Museum is often high on visitors lists. The museum covers seventy years of military aviation history. There are special exhibits at the museum that are dedicated to the Royal Air Force and how they waged war with the Germans over Southern England during the World War Two. As well as housing a Hunter and Meteor the museum also has a replica of a Spitfire and a Hurricane and Swift Jet.

Then a short drive from Chichester is Goodwood House which is home to the Dukes of Richmond for more than 300 years. The house is open to the public for 60 days a year, giving you the chance to explore the treasures in the Regency State Apartments. Along with paintings by George Stubbs and Canaletto there are some fine French Tapestries, furniture and porcelain to be viewed as well. 

If you would like to discover what life has been like for people living in this part of England during the last 500 years or so then a visit to Weald and Downland Open Air Museum should be considered. The museum is located inside 50 acres of the South Downs and has more than forty five historic farms, homes and workplaces to explore. All of which were rescued and then restored to their original form. There is also a replica Victorian school house on site.  The on-site farm includes Shire horses and cattle at work. Then after all that excitement have a picnic by the lake.

When you next stay in Chichester, make sure to book your hotel in Chichester from this list.