Holiday Rentals & Lettings in Chichester

Table of Contents

• At a glance: what should you know about renting a holiday letting in Chichester?
• Holiday rentals and lettings in Chichester: find your perfect retreat
• Exploring Chichester: our top recommendations
• Activities: what are the top things to do and see in Chichester?

• Choice of accommodation: From city-centre apartments to characterful cottages and holiday homes, Chichester suits couples, families and groups.
• Where to stay: In the Georgian city centre for culture, or out towards the harbour and West Wittering for the coast.
• What guests love: A historic cathedral city, sailing harbour, sandy beaches and the racing at Goodwood.
• Best time to visit: Summer for the beaches and Goodwood, spring and autumn for the South Downs, and quieter winters.
• Things to do: Visit the cathedral, explore Fishbourne Roman Palace, sail Chichester Harbour and relax at West Wittering.

Chichester's holiday lettings blend history and coast, from elegant city-centre apartments and characterful cottages to spacious holiday homes and cosy log cabins. Many enjoy a handy central spot or countryside and harbour views, and there is something for couples, families and groups. Whether you want to be near the cathedral and shops or close to the beaches, there is a self-catering letting to match, and most come well equipped for a comfortable stay. Expect features such as:

• Wi-Fi to plan your days out
• A garden or terrace for summer evenings
• A central spot near the cathedral and shops
• Parking, handy for the harbour and South Downs
• B&Bs and pet-friendly options at a number of lettings

Wherever you base yourself, the cathedral, the harbour or a beach is rarely far away. Fancy exploring more of the South? You can also compare cottages in the Cotswolds and apartments in London.

What are the best areas to stay in Chichester?

It depends on the holiday you have in mind: the city centre is best for culture, while the harbour suits sailing and beaches. The table below details areas for specific interests:

What do our guests say?

Guests booking holiday lettings in Chichester through Holidu often highlight the charm of the historic cathedral city, the beautiful harbour and the easy reach of West Wittering's beaches. Many mention the culture, the shopping and the events at Goodwood, and return for the rare mix of Georgian elegance, sailing waters, sandy coast and the rolling South Downs all within easy reach.

A handsome Georgian cathedral city in West Sussex, Chichester pairs Roman roots and elegant architecture with a superb natural setting between the South Downs and the sea. Its magnificent cathedral, walled streets and celebrated Festival Theatre sit within easy reach of the sailing waters of Chichester Harbour, the sandy beaches of the Witterings and the racing at Goodwood. Cultured yet relaxed, it makes a rewarding base for a holiday in the South.

✈️What is the best way to get to Chichester?

Most visitors arrive by car or by train from London and the coast. Here are the most common ways to get to the city:

• By car: Chichester is reached via the A27, within easy reach of Portsmouth, Brighton and the South Downs. A car is handy for exploring the harbour, the beaches and the countryside, and most holiday lettings offer parking nearby.
• By train: Direct services run to Chichester from London Victoria in around 1 hour 45 minutes, as well as along the coast from Brighton and Portsmouth. The station is a short walk from the city centre, making it a relaxed, car-free way to arrive.

🥗Where to eat in Chichester?

According to local reviews, Purchases Restaurant is one of the best rated in the city. Below is a table showing top highly-rated spots hand-picked by our travel experts.

⭐Our guests' recommendation: Our guest traveller Charlotte recommends a waterside pub in one of the harbour villages such as Bosham: a lovely spot for fresh local seafood while watching the boats on the tide.

☀️When is the best time to visit?

There is no bad time to visit, but the summer months of June to August bring the best beach weather and the big Goodwood events, while spring and autumn are ideal for the South Downs and the harbour. Winter is quiet and atmospheric, with the cathedral at its most festive.

Summer (June–August)

• Best for: Beaches, sailing and Goodwood events
• Weather: Warm and often sunny, with sea breezes
• Atmosphere: Lively, especially during festival season

Spring & Autumn (April–May, September–October)

• Best for: Walking, wildlife and fewer crowds
• Weather: Mild and often bright
• Atmosphere: Relaxed, with easy availability

Winter (November–March)

• Best for: Culture, cosy pubs and festive markets
• Weather: Cool and crisp, occasionally frosty
• Atmosphere: Quiet and snug, with a festive glow

⭐Our Hosts' recommendation: Our Chichester hosts recommend an early stroll around the cathedral and Roman walls before the shops open, then a drive out to West Wittering for an afternoon on the sand. Ask your host about the best harbour village for a waterside lunch and what's on at the Festival Theatre.

1. Visit Chichester Cathedral
2. Explore Fishbourne Roman Palace
3. Sail Chichester Harbour
4. Relax at West Wittering
5. Enjoy a day at Goodwood

1. Visit Chichester Cathedral

   At the heart of the city, Chichester Cathedral has stood for over 900 years and is the only medieval English cathedral visible from the sea. Admire its soaring spire, peaceful cloisters and remarkable art, from Norman stonework to modern works by Chagall and Piper. Free to enter and often hosting concerts and exhibitions, it is a beautiful and welcoming centrepiece to any visit to Chichester.

2. Explore Fishbourne Roman Palace

   Just west of the city, Fishbourne Roman Palace is the largest Roman residence ever discovered in Britain. Marvel at its extraordinary mosaic floors, including the famous Cupid on a Dolphin, and wander the recreated Roman garden. The excellent museum brings the site's history vividly to life. Fascinating and beautifully presented, it is a wonderful window into Roman Britain and a great outing in any weather.

3. Sail Chichester Harbour

   One of southern England's finest natural harbours, Chichester Harbour is an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty of shimmering creeks, saltmarsh and pretty waterside villages such as Bosham and Itchenor. Take a boat trip, try sailing or paddleboarding, or simply walk the shoreline paths spotting wading birds. Tranquil and beautiful, it is a haven for wildlife and watersports and a highlight of the area.

4. Relax at West Wittering

   A short drive from the city, West Wittering is one of the South Coast's most beautiful beaches, a vast stretch of clean golden sand with views to the Isle of Wight. Its shallow, clear water is perfect for swimming and paddling, and the breezes draw windsurfers and kitesurfers. Backed by dunes and the wild Ealing Marsh, it is a glorious spot for a classic day by the sea.

5. Enjoy a day at Goodwood

   Just outside Chichester, the Goodwood estate is world-famous for its sport and events. Cheer on the horses at the "Glorious Goodwood" racing, marvel at classic cars at the Festival of Speed and the Revival, or explore the grand house and rolling parkland. Whether you are a racing fan or simply enjoy a grand day out, Goodwood adds a touch of glamour and excitement to a Chichester holiday.