Just outside of Chichester, West Dean Gardens offers one of the greatest restored gardens in England, where you can refuel with some mid-morning refreshments on the garden terrace. Nearby, the Weald and Downland Living Museum will take the family back in time to experience a bygone era of traditional arts and crafts in a unique natural setting. If you want to spend the day a little closer to Chichester, the beautiful Goodwood House and Estate.
If you’re looking for a more traditional country lunch, at the foot of the South Downs you’ll find pub-restaurant The Richmond Arms, West Ashling, serving up everything from local game and seafood to wood-fired pizzas topped with local produce.
If you’re more interested in some coastal air, head outside to the sea as it’s right on Chichester’s doorstep. Grab your bikes, and cycle along the Salterns Way, a great leisure route that picks up from the centre of the city and goes out past Chichester Marina. Here, you’ll find The Boat House Café, a perfect spot to stop for a light lunch or tea and cake whilst taking in the stunning harbour views. Carry on to Itchenor harbour and hop on a boat for an afternoon tour with Chichester Harbour Water Tours and see if you can spot the local seals! If you’re feeling up to something a bit more active, you might find a thrill in learning to paddleboard or kayak over at Chichester Watersports.
Explore a little further and take in the Manhood Penninsula (name derived from the Old English ‘Maenu-Wudu’, meaning common wood), which offers plenty of opportunities to observe nature and wildlife with the whole family at the nature reserve, RSPB Pagham Harbour. You’re also well-placed from here to try some fantastic local seafood, whether you nestle into the cosy surroundings of the Crab & Lobster restaurant, or head to Selsey and sample freshly caught crab, straight off the beach!
Finish your day at Crate and Apple in the heart of Chichester, featuring locally sourced produce in their carefully curated British fare pub, with a twist!
