Chichester & Arundel
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Historic towns containing some of the best castles and cathedrals
South East England
chi-chest-er
arun-dul
Chichester and Arundel
Chichester was originally a Roman settlement. While little of this settlement remains today apart from the Roman palace at Fishbourne on the outskirts of the city, Chichester has much ancient character with its 11th century Cathedral, 16th century market cross, and
many fine old buildings. Chichester is ideally placed for exploring the glorious coastline and the stunning surrounding countryside of the South Downs.
There are also some great beaches just south of Chichester, at Selsey and West & East Wittering.
Activities
Chichester cathedral was begun In 1076 under Bishop Stigand. The Cathedral manages to successfully combine both modern art - including a window by Marc Chagall, a tapestry by John Piper and a painting by Graham Sutherland, while more ancient artefacts include the 12th century Lazarus Reliefs and the Lambert Barnard paintings.
Fishbourne Roman Palace and Gardens displays the remains of the largest and earliest Roman dwelling in Britain from the first century AD. Displays include beautiful Roman mosaics.
The city’s Festival Theatre has an internationally renowned reputation producing a wide range of theatrical productions, from musicals and comedies, to classic drama and innovative new writing.
The Pallant House Gallery is the home of modern art in the south. There are international touring exhibitions and print room shows as well as changing displays from the permanent collection. It also includes workshops, tours and talks.
What's nearby
Arundel, set on a hill top above the river Arun, is dominated by its Norman castle and Gothic cathedral. Arundel Castle though originally built in the 11th century, suffered badly during the English civil war, so that what you see today was constructed during the 18th and 19th centuries. However within the walls of the castle there is almost 1000 years of history, including the impressive remains of the keep, suits of armour and beautiful paintings. The 19th century Cathedral is a fine example of Gothic architecture. 
The Weald and Downland Museum has more than 40 traditional mostly timber-framed buildings dating from the 13th -19th century which were rescued from destruction, and rebuilt to their original form. Many of the interiors have been furnished, recreating the way the buildings were used by their owners centuries ago. 
The charming village of West Wittering affords magnificent views of Chichester Harbour and the South Downs beyond. It also boasts a natural and unspoilt sandy beach as well as windblown sand dunes.
The ghost of Roger de Montgomery, the Earl of Arundel is said to haunt Arundel Castle.
Visitor, Arundel Castle
