Chichester and its surrounding areas have something for everyone – from world-class motorsports and horseracing at Goodwood, to tours and exhibitions at Chichester Cathedral celebrating 950 years. Historians will enjoy stepping back in time, as they explore Chichester’s Roman walls or discover the nearby Fishbourne Roman Palace. More of a nature-lover? Go bird watching at RSPB's Medmerry or Pagham Harbour nature reserves, or visit a nearby alpaca walking farm.
Just 15 or so minutes from Chichester is The National Trust’s Petworth House – a magnificent stately home with a remarkable art collection, including works by Turner. From here, you can also pop to the quaint, traditional market towns of Petworth, which is known for its art and antique shops or nearby Midhurst situated in the stunning South Downs National Park and home to Cowdray Park polo.
Coastal Chichester
Head south of Chichester, you’ll find the charming coastal towns and villages of Selsey, West Wittering, East Wittering, and Bracklesham Bay – all perfect spots for a beach break. Watersports lovers flock here for surfing, paddleboarding, and more, with 2XS in West Wittering offering great lessons and gear hire. West Wittering’s sandy beach is a real favourite, ideal for winter dog walks or a bit of bird watching. In the busy summer months, you’ll need to book your visit ahead of time to avoid missing out.
East Wittering has a lovely, laid-back vibe, with its mix of shingle and sand beach, bustling village shops, cosy cafés, and Shore Watersports right on hand. Wander a little further and you’ll reach Bracklesham Bay, where the wide, sandy beach is popular with surfers, fossil hunters, and families alike. It’s also home to Billy’s on the Beach – a perfect spot to tuck into something tasty while enjoying views across to the Isle of Wight. Over in Selsey, you’ll find Seal Bay Resort and beach offering family-friendly breaks. Make sure you stop to taste the famous Selsey Crab and other locally caught seafood.
Just a stone’s throw away, Chichester Harbour Conservancy is a must-visit for nature lovers. Its peaceful creeks, saltmarshes, make it a haven for wildlife, especially birds and it’s wide open waters and marinas make it a popular sailing destination. Nestled on the edge of Chichester Harbour, the picturesque village of Bosham with its quaint waterfront, historic church, and charming independent shops, pubs and cafés, it’s the perfect spot for a relaxed stroll.
The combined coastline of East and West Sussex stretches 140 miles along the English…
Plan your trip
The Great Sussex Way® is the DMO for the Chichester District in West Sussex. Visit us for the historic walled city of Chichester with its iconic cathedral, the pretty market towns of Petworth and Midhurst brimming with interesting independents, glorious seaside towns like Selsey, Bosham and The Witterings enjoying more sunlight hours than anywhere in the UK. Explore cycle routes and footpaths with outstanding views of the stunning South Downs National Park, or the beautifully unspoilt West Sussex coast.
Plan your visit here for fascinating historic sites and museums, peaceful nature reserves, boat trips, grand country houses, glorious gardens, outstanding theatre and inspirational art galleries, award-winning vineyards producing delicious Sussex wine and much more in our jewel in the Sussex crown.
Explore Chichester and beyond by rail, with these inspiring itineraries from The Great Sussex Way:
