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Perfect plan for a festive day out to Chichester
In this guide you’ll find the perfect itinerary for a delightful December day out to Chichester!
I’ve lived in the Chichester area for over twenty years and still find new, beautiful places to visit here.
If you’ve never ventured to this charming cathedral city, then I urge you to make the trip! Plus, visit in winter and see Chichester in all its festive glory!
The city provides a vibrant and historical snapshot of British heritage and community. The high street is full of independent stores, local cafes and restaurants.
Plus there is history abound and wonderful walks mere minutes from the city centre.
If you haven’t visited yet, what are you waiting for?
Travel doesn’t always have to mean heading off to far flung places for months at a time.
Part of learning to travel when experiencing anxiety and depression is taking small steps into the unknown.
Visiting new places in your own country is a great way to begin your travel journey. Start with a day out, then an overnight stay, gradually building up to your dream of travelling full time.
There is also something wonderful about getting to know your own home through the eyes of a traveller. The places you see every day but never really notice become special in a wholly unexpected way. Sometimes the most enjoyable experiences are right on your doorstep. And what better time to explore than at Christmas?!
- One Day December Itinerary
- Getting to Chichester
- Historical Sites
- Shopping
- Food and Drink
- Entertainment
One Day December Itinerary
A day out to Chichester in December is the perfect way to experience British Christmas festivities.
The town centre houses a fabulous Christmas Tree, stylish seasonal lights, and a fabulous Christmas Market!
In 2019 twelve Elves hid across the town (following on from 2018’s Nutcracker Trail) as part of a Christmas Competition. In 2022 fairy tale scenes appeared in shop windows.
With lots to do some proper preparation will maximise your day out and you’ll have a fantastic festive outing.
So without further ado, here is the perfect plan for your December Day Out to Chichester!
Getting to Chichester
Travelling to Chichester for a day out couldn’t be easier.
I personally recommend taking the train so you can relax and enjoy the scenery as you approach this historic city nestled in the Sussex Countryside. There is a direct line from London Victoria to Chichester, as well as easy links from Brighton, Southampton, and Portsmouth.
Tickets can be purchased in advance through The Train Line, who frequently provide cheaper fares. I’ve managed to travel between Chichester and London for as little as £5 each way just by booking in advance, so I highly recommend checking out your options.
Now, in all honesty, the train network in the UK has its flaws, and is currently experiencing a series of strikes that can cause disruption to travel plans. However I still recommend travelling by train if at all possible. Not only is public transport more environmentally friendly, but you’ll be free to partake in a warming tipple at the end of your day!
The Train Line also uphold the compensation schemes of the Southern Railway network. This means that should your journey be delayed by 30 minutes or more you can claim compensation on your fare. So even if you don’t have the smoothest journey, you won’t ever be out of pocket!
Driving
Should you wish to travel by car, there are easy and affordable places to park near the city centre. Throughout December there is a FREE Park and Ride option located at Chichester College. This only runs on selected dates and between certain hours, so be sure to check before you travel.
Alternatively, the cheapest car parks are located at the ends of three of the main shopping streets. All have the option to pay by card and contactless. At the time of publishing a full days parking (12 hours) at these three long stay locations is just £7.90.
Historical Sites
Begin your day out to Chichester by heading to the centre of town. The Cross is located in the middle of the four main shopping streets. It’s a great spot to use as a meeting point.
From here you are central to all the major sights and shops, so all you have to do is pick a street and start exploring!
Why not start your day out to Chichester by visiting the unmissable Cathedral? Entry is FREE (a donation is always appreciated of course) and free drop in tours available 11.15am and 2.30pm from Monday to Saturday inclusive to give you a fantastic overview of the building and its history.
During the festive period the Cathedral is home to the stunning Star of Bethlehem and if you are lucky then you might catch rehearsals for one of the wonderful Christmas Concerts taking place. Try to coincide your visit with one of the Cathedral Events for a truly memorable experience.
Some other key places to visit in the centre of town include The Novium Museum, the Chichester City Walls Walk, and Priory Park.
If you’re a history fan and/or enjoy a local touch, you can arrange a Walking Tour.
Food and Drink
Chichester boasts over 150 independent cafes and shops. And whilst you may be tempted by the familiar brands, I urge you to be brave. Don’t let the anxiety of going somewhere unfamiliar and untested stop you from experiencing something new.
You are more than spoilt for choice in Chichester, and the sheer number of options available can be overwhelming. Luckily I’m here to narrow down the list for you!
Coffee Break
I love to grab a coffee at Crispins, a quaint cafe in a converted house. They have a great range of drinks and cakes, including gluten free and vegan choices.
Lunch
My top spot in Chichester for lunch is without a doubt Charlie Harper’s. Located at the far end of East Street, Charlie Harper’s offers a wide selection of meals, light bites, sandwiches, and drinks. Locally sourced where possible, they prepare your meal freshly for you. Just take a seat and enjoy table service, then go up to the counter to pay (my favourite combination of service!).
Drinks
Fancy a cheeky tipple in the afternoon? There are plenty of pubs and bars to choose from, but I’m particularly fond of Sit & Sip, a boutique bar that has a wide range of craft beers and artisan spirits. Best of all in December, hot apple cider! A warming treat that must not be missed!
UPDATE: Sadly Sit & Sip succumbed to the sad mass closures across Chichester. New bars have begun to open their doors as of 2023 however, including a craft beer joint in Crane Street called The Escapist.
Dinner
There are plenty of restaurants to choose from should you wish to stick around for a full meal (perhaps before taking in a show at the acclaimed and renowned Festival Theatre?). As well as all the usual chains (you won’t be short of Italian options in this city!) there are some great local choices that I urge you to try.
For a truly luxurious meal that won’t break the bank, head to Purchases in North Street. Offering a pre-theatre menu, and a set lunch and dinner menu, you can have a fantastic three course meal for under £25! The restaurant also displays a fantastic selection of artwork on loan and chosen by Chichester’s Pallant House Gallery.
Shopping
Although Chichester is classed as a city, this is purely due to the presence of the cathedral. Compared to other cities in the UK, Chichester is relatively small. One of the major benefits of this fact is the walkability of the town centre.
Almost fully pedestrianised, the shopping streets in Chichester are safe and easy to navigate. There are four main streets spurring out from The Cross in the centre of town, with smaller, interconnecting side streets full of hidden boutiques.
Unlike most city centres, Chichester is heavily weighted towards smaller stores. Whilst there are recognisable shop fronts around, it is the independent stores that make shopping in Chichester special.
Have a look in Rosie Rose for an array of unique items; peruse Montezuma’s incredible chocolate range; and scour the shelves in Kim’s Bookshop for antique volumes and second hand bargain books. And don’t forget to walk a little further to the edge of town where you’ll find a host of independent retailers housed in the quirky sheds of Drapers Yard.
Christmas Market
The best part of planning your day out to Chichester in December however, is the Christmas Market. Unlike so many Christmas Markets across the UK, Chichester steers clear of faux German influence. Instead the streets are filled with eclectic crafts, gifts, and treats from an array of vendors. The market is organised by Woodland Crafts and runs for nine days between December 8th and 16th.
To make the most of your day out to Chichester I highly recommend visiting on a Thursday between these dates as this is late night shopping day, and the town is buzzing with festive energy throughout the evening.
Entertainment
Should you wish to extend your visit into the night, then Chichester Festival Theatre offers fabulous festive entertainment including Christmas concerts and Sleeping Beauty.
Or if your trip is very close to Christmas, then seize the opportunity to experience Chichester Cathedral’s Carol Concerts. Entry is free but it can get bust and entry is first come first served. It is well worth the wait though, and ushers in pure Christmas Spirit.
Chichester Events: Calendar of upcoming Christmas Festivities
What are you waiting for?
Your festive day out to Chichester awaits!
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