Chichester is a cathedral city, and the county town of West Sussex. The Romans settled here, as did the Anglo-Saxons, the Normans and all the generations after, and it’s been a lively market town through much of recorded history. The best places to stay in Chichester are as varied as the people who’re visiting (history buffs and culture aficionados alike), ranging from converted townhouse hotels and farmhouses, to homely B&Bs. We have discovered some real gems both in the centre of town and just outside in the lovely surrounding countryside.

Fisbourne Roman Palace, the largest Roman residence north of the Alps, is a near neighbour — it’s now impressively excavated and preserved, and open as a museum. Many people know contemporary Chichester for its festival, and its Festival Theatre, which is one of the UK’s producing and touring theatres. Chichester also has a Symphony Orchestra, a planetarium and science centre, and a film festival. Goodwood is another of the local attractions, and the best places to stay in Chichester are popular for race-goers (it's about 3 miles north of town). The countryside around Chichester is picturesque, and the city is close to the coastline, only about a quarter of an hour, so it’s a lovely pick for walkers too. The Centurion Way starts here, and runs along an old railway line, all the way to West Dean.

Chichester’s 11th century cathedral is a spectacular sight, inside and out, known for its glorious stained glass windows, assortment of historic tapestries and paintings, and dramatic spires which rise above the town. We also think Bishop’s Palace Gardens, the Chichester Museum, the Tangmere Military Aviation Museum, and the Weald and Downland Living Museum are worth a look too.

The town is a popular destination year round, but is especially busy during race dates or festival periods. So if you want to guarantee your room in one of the best places to stay in Chichester, do your research and book well ahead.

The Best Places to Stay in Chichester

For a Mini-Break

• The Chichester Harbour Hotel is a Georgian townhouse conversion in the centre of town, with 37 contemporary rooms and suites, a lively bar, a great restaurant, and an underground spa with a hydrotherapy pool, a gym and steam room. There are plenty of original features adding to the property's appeal — full height sash windows, magnificent fireplaces and a grand, sweeping central staircase — but it’s decorated in contemporary colours, design furniture, and contemporary art on the walls.

For Great Value

• Crouchers is a converted farmhouse just outside Chichester, with 26 spacious, comfortable, and affordable rooms and suites. This is simple accommodation at its best, with pleasantly unfussy design in neutral colours, and good quality, solid furniture. Some rooms have courtyard access and four-poster beds. The hotel restaurant has 2 AA Rosettes, a friendly bar, and a lovely courtyard.

Best B&Bs

• West Dean College B&B is an historic country house that looks quite a lot like a castle, what with its towers and crenelated, battlement-esque roof.  Set within gated parkland and gardens just outside of Chichester, this is a wonderfully traditional feeling place to stay.  The bedrooms have many original features, including elegant murals, and there are wonderful fireplaces, coving, stonework and stained glass.  The communal areas are grand, the gardens glorious, and the views and atmosphere are tranquil.  Adults only.  

Prefer a Private Apartment or Cottage?

• If you'd prefer the privacy of a self-catering option then browse through the wide variety available online with our partner, Booking.com.

Travel Information

• The closest airport to Chichester is Southampton Airport, which is about 40 minutes away by road. London’s Gatwick Airport may well be more convenient, and is a similar distance away: 55 minutes by car or taxi. If you’re travelling via London, the quickest route is probably by train out of London Victoria, which can take as little as an hour and a half — if you travel by direct train.
• If you want to hire a car we recommend you visit our online partner, Rentalcars.
• Chichester is busiest during the Festival of Chichester, which runs for four weeks annually, at the end of June and beginning of July. The Chichester calendar of events has interesting things going on throughout the year, so there are always visitors, but if you’re thinking only of the weather then then Chichester’s oceanic climate means you can expect a limited smattering of rainfall year round, but plenty of sunshine too, and Chichester’s appeals are both indoor and outdoor, so it’s really a year-round destination.

Still not sure where to stay?

• Expand your search to include all the best places to stay in West Sussex
• Consider nearby Portsmouth or Midhurst
• Refine your search by the kind of holiday you’re planning and consider our Gurus’ recommendations for the best pubs-with-rooms in West Sussex or the most romantic hotels in West Sussex
• Or you could contact one of our friendly Gurus for personalised advice.