If you’re planning on skipping the winding airport queues and opting for a staycation in Sussex this year, few places offer the blend of culture, countryside and coastline quite like Chichester.
This historic cathedral city is the kind of destination where you can spend the morning exploring independent boutiques, enjoy lunch overlooking a vineyard, take in a world-class theatre production in the evening and still be on the beach in under thirty minutes.
Whether you’re visiting for a romantic weekend, a family getaway or a summer escape centred around Goodwood’s famous events, Chichester has something for everyone. It’s easy to see why visitors searching for luxury holiday lets in Sussex continue to choose this corner of the South Coast, year after year.
Why a Chichester Getaway Makes The Perfect Escape
Perfectly positioned between the South Downs National Park and the Sussex coastline, Chichester offers the best of both worlds.
History lovers can wander the city’s ancient Roman walls and admire the stunning architecture of Chichester Cathedral. Foodies will discover an abundance of independent cafés, restaurants and local producers, while those seeking a slower pace can enjoy scenic canal walks, vineyard visits and countryside adventures.
Add in a packed summer events calendar, and it’s easy to see why Chichester continues to be one of West Sussex’s most loved destinations.
Experience the Excitement of Goodwood
Summer in Chichester is synonymous with Goodwood.
The world-famous Festival of Speed, from the 9th to 12th July, brings together motorsport enthusiasts from across the globe, while the Qatar Goodwood Festival, kicking off in 28th July and running until the August bank holiday, offers spectacular days of racing, fashion and entertainment where a glass of Pimm’s is not only enjoyable but mandatory.
Whether you’re attending for a day or planning your entire trip around the event, Chichester provides the perfect base from which to enjoy the action. For smaller groups stay with us at the very central Little Blue or St Cyriacs Cottage. Or for larger parties we recommend Marble Bridge Farm or Coles House sitting a few miles outside of the City.
Discover Tinwood Estate
Just a short drive from the city centre, Tinwood Estate offers vineyard tours and sparkling wine tastings overlooking the South Downs.
Spend an afternoon strolling through the vines, learning about English winemaking and enjoying a glass of award-winning Sussex sparkling wine in the sunshine.
If you’re celebrating a special occasion, The Butler Collection’s luxury concierge service can help arrange memorable experiences throughout your stay, allowing you to enjoy the very best of Sussex with ease.
Enjoy a Night at Chichester Festival Theatre
Widely regarded as one of the UK’s leading regional theatres, Chichester Festival Theatre attracts thousands of visitors every year, from far beyond Sussex.
From major musicals and classic dramas to new productions and family-friendly shows, a theatre trip is the perfect addition to a Chichester getaway. Browse this summer’s shows.
Explore Pallant House Gallery
For art lovers, Pallant House Gallery is a must-visit. Home to one of the country’s finest collections of modern British art, it combines historic architecture with contemporary creativity in the heart of the city.
Take a gallery tour, enrol yourself on a workshop or listen to one of many expert talks – there is something for art-lovers, young and old. Explore the gallery’s calendar of events, this summer season.
Catch a Film at Chichester Cinema at New Park
One of Chichester’s hidden gems, this much-loved independent cinema screens everything from blockbuster releases to independent and international films.
If you’re visiting in August, keep an eye out for the annual Chichester International Film Festival, which attracts film lovers from across the South East with both indoor showings at the New Park Centre and outdoor screenings of your favourite movies.
Discover Chichester’s Ancient Past at The Novium Museum
For those wanting to immerse themselves in Chichester’s fascinating history, a visit to The Novium Museum is well worth adding to your itinerary.
Built directly above the remains of a Roman bathhouse, this award-winning museum brings more than 500,000 years of local history to life through interactive displays, archaeological discoveries and family-friendly exhibitions. Visitors can explore the visible remains of the Roman baths, uncover artefacts found beneath Chichester’s streets and learn how the city evolved from the Roman settlement of Noviomagus to the thriving city we know today.
The Novium is particularly ideal for families, offering engaging exhibitions and regular activities designed to inspire younger visitors while captivating history enthusiasts of all ages. Better still, general admission to the museum is free, making it an excellent addition to any Chichester day out.
Chichester for Families
Families are equally well catered for in the City, with lots of things to do in Chichester. Once you’ve visited The Novium, continue your historical adventure with a visit to nearby Fishbourne Roman Palace, a short drive outside the City, before heading to the stunning, sandy coastline that is West Wittering Beach for an afternoon walk to blow the cobwebs away.
Chichester for Couples
Looking for a romantic weekend away?
Start your day with coffee at one of the many independent coffee shops and eateries before exploring the city’s historic streets hand-in-hand. Spend the afternoon at Tinwood Estate enjoying a vineyard tour and tasting, before heading back into the city for dinner and a show at Chichester Festival Theatre.
For a slower pace, wander along Chichester Canal observing the wildlife in it’s natural habitat, browse the boutiques shops in town or venture to nearby Bosham Harbour to watch the sunset over the water with a picnic of local treats arranged by your concierge manager. There are many ways to spend a day out in Chichester as a loved-up couple.
Stay at St Cyriacs: Your Home from Home in Chichester
After a day spent exploring everything Chichester has to offer, there’s nothing better than returning to a place where you can truly relax.
Located within easy reach of the city’s attractions, St Cyriacs Cottage – our latest addition to our Collection in Chichester – offers a stylish and comfortable base for couples, families and groups looking to experience the very best of West Sussex.
Whether you’re visiting for a Goodwood event, a theatre break, a family holiday or simply a long weekend away, St Cyriacs places you at the heart of it all – with the city, countryside and coast right on your doorstep.
Ready to plan your Chichester getaway? Your dedicated concierge manager is on hand to take care of the finer details, your only job is focusing on creating unforgettable memories.
