Besides great sights, an interesting history and many exciting destinations, Chichester has a lot more to offer. Here you will find many helpful tips to enjoy your vacation in Chichester.
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Sights in Chichester
The city of Chichester is located in the heart of West Sussex in England. The city is home to a variety of sights and attractions that appeal to tourists and locals alike. The following is a comprehensive guide to the top 10 sights in the city of Chichester.
1. Chichester Cathedral
Chichester Cathedral is a beautiful Gothic building that dates back to the 13th century. The cathedral is home to a variety of artefacts and works of art, and is also a popular venue for events and concerts. Visitors can explore the cathedral grounds and take in the stunning architecture, or attend one of the many events that are held there throughout the year.
2. Chichester Castle
Chichester Castle is a medieval fortification that stands on the site of a Roman palace. The castle was originally built in the 11th century, and has been used as a royal residence, a prison, and a military garrison. Today, the castle is a popular tourist attraction, and visitors can explore the grounds, walls, and towers. The castle also houses a museum which contains a number of artefacts from its history.
3. Fishbourne Roman Palace
Fishbourne Roman Palace is a fascinating archaeological site that was once a luxurious Roman villa. The villa was built in the 1st century AD, and was one of the largest of its kind in Britain. Visitors can explore the ruins of the palace, and see the many mosaics and wall paintings that have been preserved. The site also houses a museum which contains a number of artefacts from the Roman period.
4. Goodwood House
Goodwood House is a beautiful stately home that is located just outside of Chichester. The house was built in the 17th century, and has been the home of the Duke of Richmond for over 300 years. Visitors can tour the house and grounds, and see a number of artefacts and works of art from the Goodwood collection. The house is also host to a number of events throughout the year, including the Goodwood Festival of Speed and the Goodwood Revival.
5. The Novium Museum
The Novium Museum is the city’s local history museum, and is located in the centre of Chichester. The museum tells the story of the city from the Roman period to the present day, and has a number of interesting exhibits. The museum is also home to a café, which is the perfect place to relax after exploring the museum.
6. The Weald and Downland Living Museum
The Weald and Downland Living Museum is an openair museum that tells the story of rural life in England. The museum is located in the South Downs, and consists of a number of historic buildings that have been relocated from their original sites. Visitors can explore the buildings, and see how people would have lived and worked in the past. The museum also holds a number of events throughout the year, including traditional craft demonstrations and living history days.
7. Chichester Observatory
Chichester Observatory is a working astronomical observatory that is open to the public. The observatory is located on the top of Bishop Otter College, and visitors can take part in a number of astronomyrelated activities. The observatory is also home to a café, which offers stunning views over the city of Chichester.
8. Pallant House Gallery
Pallant House Gallery is an awardwinning art gallery that is located in the centre of Chichester. The gallery houses a permanent collection of 20th century art, as well as a number of temporary exhibitions. The gallery is also home to a café, which is the perfect place to relax after exploring the exhibitions.
9. The Festival Theatre
The Festival Theatre is Chichester’s main theatre, and is located in the heart of the city. The theatre hosts a variety of live performance throughout the year, including musicals, operas, plays, and ballet. The theatre also has a number of facilities, including a café and a bar.
10. West Sussex County Council Heritage Service
The West Sussex County Council Heritage Service is responsible for the conservation and promotion of the county’s heritage. The service offers a number of educational resources, and also runs a number of events throughout the year. The heritage service is also responsible for a number of historic buildings in Chichester, including the city’s Guildhall.
History of Chichester
The city of Chichester in England is said to have been founded by the Romans in AD 43 although there is evidence of earlier inhabitation in the form of Neolithic flint knives found in the area. The Romans built a fort here which they called Noviomagus and this grew into a thriving settlement. Evidence of the Roman occupation can still be seen in the city today with the remains of a Roman wall and amphitheatre.
The AngloSaxons took over the area after the Romans left in the 5th century and they named the settlement Cissa ceaster, which translates as the town on the River Cissa. The Saxons built a cathedral here in the 7th century which was destroyed by the Danes in the 9th century. It was rebuilt in the 10th century and then again in the 11th century after it was damaged by an earthquake.
During the medieval period, Chichester was an important trading centre and a market town. It was also the seat of the Bishop of Chichester. The city was badly damaged by fires in the 13th and 14th centuries but was rebuilt each time.
The 18th century saw the start of Chichester’s decline as a trading centre as the harbours silted up and trade moved to other nearby ports such as Portsmouth. The city did, however, remain an important coaching stop on the London to Brighton road.
The 20th century saw Chichester’s fortunes begin to change as it became a popular tourist destination. The city’s historic buildings and its proximity to the coast make it a popular place to visit. Today, the city is home to around 30,000 people and continues to be a popular place to live and work.
Vacation in Chichester
There are plenty of vacation possibilities in and around the city of Chichester in England. This historic city has something for everyone, whether you’re looking for a relaxing country getaway or a cultural city break.
Just a short drive from the city centre, you’ll find the beautiful Chichester Harbour. This Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty is perfect for a calm and relaxing holiday. There are plenty of walking and cycling trails to explore, as well as opportunities for watersports such as sailing and kayaking.
If you’re looking for a more active vacation, the city of Chichester is home to a number of tourist attractions. The Cathedral is a mustsee, as is the awardwinning Fishbourne Roman Palace. For something a little different, why not take a tour of the Goodwood motor racing circuit?
If you’re travelling with children, there are plenty of familyfriendly activities in the area. Why not spend a day at one of the many beaches along the coast, or visit one of the local animal parks? For a really memorable day out, take a trip on the heritage steam railway, the Lavender Line.
Whether you’re looking for a quiet break or a actionpacked vacation, the city of Chichester has plenty to offer.
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