If your holiday to the Chichester area is a wash out, or the odd day is looking anything but sunny, there’s still plenty to do. Don’t let the rain dampen your holiday spirit – these are our top five suggestions when the sun decides not to shine.
ART: Visit the Oxmarket Gallery
Many people holiday in Chichester to explore its arts and culture. The vast majority head to Pallant House Gallery; but a perhaps lesser-known, but equally fantastic art gallery is The Oxmarket Gallery.
Housed in a magnificent, Grade II listed medieval church, this volunteer-run charity showcases over 150 exhibitions a year, meaning there are every-changing collections to view. Admission is free to encourage both locals and tourists alike to engage with art. Most of the works on display are for sale, so if hunting out affordable but unique art is something you enjoy, this is the place to head on a rainy day.
Fresh air suggests…
Tie your visit in with a coffee and indulgent doughnut like you’ve never tasted at Common Grounds – just across the car park from the gallery.
HISTORY: The Mary Rose Museum, Portsmouth
Just a 20-minute drive from Chichester is the port city of Portsmouth, home to The Mary Rose. This carrack-type warship of the English Tudor navy was raised to the surface in 1982, following its discovery in 1971, in one of the world’s most complex and expensive maritime salvage projects.
Explore the surviving section of the ship and experience the sights, sounds and smells of how life was on board. Thousands of Tudor artefacts, such as guns and surgeon’s tools, are on display offering a journey back in time to the 1500s.
Fresh air suggests…
It’s not always easy planning ahead on your holiday, especially if the weather looks changeable. But if you book your tickets online in advance, you’ll save 20 percent.
KIDS: Air Arena Trampoline Park
For both big and small kids, Air Arena is a spacious, clean and well-run trampoline park, offering balcony viewing for parents from its café. It’s the perfect place to ‘bounce out’ energetic children on a rainy day and certain to be fun for all the family.
Fresh air suggests…
You’ll find Air Arena at Chichester Gate Leisure Park, which is also home to several well-known food chains, a bowling alley and Cineworld. Not the most cultural place to visit during your holiday to Chichester, but it’s certain to be a hit with the kids.
RELAX: The Goodwood Hotel and Spa
If the rain has dampened your holiday plans in Chichester, why not unwind at The Waterbeach Spa, located at The Goodwood Hotel. The spa offers a variety of packages and treatments to suit a range of budgets. Tie in lunch at The Goodwood Bar and Grill – found next to the health club – or Farmer, Butcher, Chef – the estate’s new, sustainable restaurant where they pledge that customers will travel farther than the food on their plate!
Fresh air suggests…
An afternoon tea and tour of Goodwood House is also a must, and perfect to do on a rainy day.
COAST: fish & chips at the beach
So, you’re on holiday, but the weather isn’t on your side? This shouldn’t mean you can’t enjoy fish & chips on (or, should we say, at) the beach. Head to Bracklesham Bay, pick up fish & chips from Moby’s and park up in Bracklesham Beach car park.
Here, you’ll have the best spot from the comfort of your car to watch the moody skies and waves roll in. If you have rain macs, venture out for a wet walk!
Be sure to return to Bracklesham Bay and its neighbouring village, East Wittering, on a sunnier day during your holiday to enjoy all the area has to offer.
Fresh air suggests…
Rather a café? Billies on the Beach in Bracklesham has beach views and a delicious selection of hot and cold meals. It’s also licensed, so you can enjoy a glass of wine or beer while the rain passes.