What is it like to live in Chichester? Well read our Chichester Area Guide to find out more.
The picturesque cathedral city of Chichester boasts a thriving art scene, food fun, shopping to die for and streets steeped in history.
As most towns with the suffix “Chester” – derived from the Saxon word “Ceastre”, used to denote a lowland fort or defended town – Chichester was once the Roman encampment site or fortified settlement. Immerse yourself in the city’s ancient history with a visit to Fishbourne Roman Palace and Gardens, the most significant Roman home in Britain. The impressive Roman life model features a formal garden, planted as it would have been 2,000 years ago, and a vegetable garden that provides a glimpse into the Roman diet. Inside the most extensive collection of mosaics in the UK, thought to be laid AD75-80, making them some of the most ancient examples of their kind.
The spectacular Chichester Cathedral holds clues about the city’s past. Built after the Norman conquest of 1066 but subject to much rebuilding due to multiple fires, the beautiful church has many historical features of note. One of these is two huge oak panels painted by Lambert Barnard depicting then King Henry VIII confirming Bishop Robert Sherburne (who commissioned the painting, incidentally) as bishop. It is an actual example of Tudor propaganda produced in 1530.
The are some brilliant restaurants in Chichester for food lovers, here are just a few.
- Reina Kitchen Meze and Bar: A highly-rated local favourite serving classic Turkish dishes
- Arties Kitchen: Hot & cold small plates & sangria are the specialities of this cosy, bi-level Spanish eatery.
- Viento De Levante: Great tapas dishes including vegetarian, meat and fish dishes, so there is something for every taste!
- Field & Fork: Intimate option for seasonal à la carte and set menus, afternoon tea & pre-theatre dining.
For more information on the housing market in Chichester, reach out to our agent Sophie White, alternatively for the Chichester Area Guide tourist website, click here.
