If you’ve chosen Chichester as your new study home, congrats! It’s the only city in its area with a rich Roman history and has tons of interesting spots for students to check out…
Updated: 09 Jul 2026
Chichester is known for its friendly atmosphere and beautiful scenery (beaches and countryside included), and is home to the University of Chichester too. It might be small, but Chichester has a rich heritage and with roughly 5,000 students roaming around (split between the university's Chichester and Bognor Regis campuses), is certainly far from dull.
The close knitted community that comes with a small population bonds many students together, and gives that live-at-home feel to moving away. There’s a lot of studying going on here, but a fair amount of exploring can be done too to really get to grips with the town itself…
Good for: A picnic in the sun.
What it is: A local park, perfect for outdoor revision or a nice afternoon walk.
Why you should go: Priory Park is the go-to outside revision spot for Chi students. Bring your notes down (or not if you just want some fresh air), grab some mates and watch the cricket games commence on the ground. It’s a fab people watching spot if you’re needed some much deserved distraction, and you can spy the castle motte from the park too.
Good for: A night off to let your hair down.
What it is: Whether you’re looking for some cheap drinks or a place to watch the footie, Zee Bar has you sorted. It’s a massive student hit and is always packed with people, before and after lectures. They hold themed events every night of the week, what’s not to love?
Why you should go: It’s an award winner.
Good for: A romantic date or a peaceful stroll.
What it is: The canal itself runs through four miles of Chichester, finishing at the harbour in Birdham. It’s the perfect all-rounder, preferably on a sunny day. For those who need a change of scenery (not just the inside of a library) you can grab some mates and hire a rowing boat, or try your hand at fishing.
Why you should go: To test out your rowing skills.
Good for: An event you wouldn’t find anywhere else.
What it is: The home of Glorious Goodwood, Festival of Speed and Goodwood Revival, Goodwood is also home to the Three Friday Nights annual festival. Spread over three consecutive Friday nights, and consisting of horse racing, tons of live music and bucket loads of dancing, Goodwood is Chichester’s answer to festival life.
Why you should go: Previous acts have included Rudimental, Example and Steve Aoki, proving how big the festival is. Music acts like this don’t swing by Chichester often, so grab the opportunity whilst you can and see the big guys in person.
Good for: Some local culture.
What it is: Chichester Cathedral is a ground-breaking 900 years old, and is jam packed with enough history to fill up a day. Both the cathedral itself and the gardens are exceptional in the sunshine, and prove how rich the history of the city is.
Why you should go; It’s a great place to pop into if you’ve got an empty weekend, or if your parents pay you a visit. The cathedral is the notorious landmark of Chichester, so crossing it off your list is a must.
Good for: That holiday feeling.
What it is: Both East and West Wittering complete the collection of beaches to visit, and are different enough to pay both a visit. Living near the seaside whilst studying is always a plus, but having multiple beach options is even better. If you prefer the soft sand, West is your best shot whereas East offers a pebbly alternative.
Why you should go: To enjoy a BBQ with your housemates and bond outside of the campus itself.
Good for: A retail experience.
What it is: The Gate is ram-packed with big name brands and food outlets, perfect after a long day or a night out recovery meal. Take your pick from Nando’s, Five Guys and others or enter Cineworld to completely switch off. Fitness fanatics love the Gate too, as Nuffield Health and Wellbeing is located here.
Why you should go: For a well-deserved post exam Nando’s. It's also home to the Air Arena trampoline park – if you fancy a bit of bouncing.
Good for: A night of theatre.
What it is: The Festival Theatre is internationally recognised. Famous faces have appeared here once or twice too, with the Queen herself popping in once.
Why you should go: Students get discounted tickets, and shows have included Beauty and the Beast.
Good for: A dose of animal therapy.
What it is: Quite literally an alpaca petting zoo. Don’t worry this isn’t a dream either, even though it does sound like perfect (just look at those faces – who could resist!). For some cuddle therapy, you can walk the alpacas for around an hour and stroll with them as they live their best lives.
Why you should go: It’s a complete break from reality, and takes your mind away from all the uni stress you may be facing. It’s impossible to leave here without a smile on your face, and the alpacas look fab when showing people on social media.
Good for: Football fanatics.
What it is: Found right next to the Festival Theatre, Oaklands Park is the place to be for any footie fans out there. Home to both the men’s and ladies’ Chichester FC squads, the grounds are right next to the campus too, making it easier than ever to watch a game in person.
Why you should go: To support your local squad and grab a few drinks too.
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