Chichester: English Cathedral City

Chichester was once a Roman settlement, and the heart of the present city is more or less confined to the ancient Roman walls. Chichester has a wealth of beautiful buildings dating from the 18th century, but it also contains some modern gems.

The city centre of Chichester is divided into quadrants by four main roads, North, South, East and West Streets, which meet at the Market Cross. This landmark structure was built by Bishop Story in 1501.

Go to Chichester on any Saturday, and you will still find the area around the Market Cross buzzing with activity. Many people use is as a meeting place, street traders try to set up their stalls as close as possible, and sometimes the air is filled with the sound of street musicians.

Wander from the Market Cross, and the street scene may become more serene, particularly on a week day.

The south-east quadrant (between South and East Streets) is also divided into four segments, known as the Pallants. The streets in this area are lined with elegant Georgian houses. Slow down and enjoy this feast of architectural gems, each one slightly different.

The area is very well preserved, and the character maintained with care. Notice that the yellow lines painted on the road to warn against parking are not the usual garish shade, but a tasteful pale primrose colour!

In England, any settlement with a cathedral is designated a city, regardless of population.

Chichester, with a population of 24,000 is smaller than many English 'towns'.

The cathedral is 800 years old in 2008, although it has not existed in its present form for quite that long. The orignal structure was largely destroyed by a fire at the end of the 12th century, and then rebuilt. Viewed from afar, the most significant feature of the cathedral is its magnificent spire, but that is one of the newest parts of the building: the original collapsed in 1861.

Chichester cathedral is famed for adding modern art, much of it specially commisioned to compliment the ancient building. Among other treasures, there is a stained glass window by Mark Chagall, and vividly coloured alter tapestry by John Piper.

The Gallery is situated in a beautiful Queen Anne townhouse, with a striking modern extension that provides generous display space.

The Gallery owns and displays mainly 20th century art, but also owns a collection of older furniture and paintings, some about 200 years old, with a few older pieces.

The 20th century collection is one of the best in the British Isles, and the special exhibitions are mounted throughout the year.

Even if you think that you don't like modern art, make time to visit this Gallery - you may be pleasantly surprised.

For more information, see the Gallery website, www.pallant.org.uk. You will find details of opening times, admission prices, and exhibitions.

The Festival Theatre was established in 1962 under the patronage of Sir Laurence Olivier. It has expanded; there are now 2 theatres, the original, and the Minerva, both in a green parkland setting.

The Festival season runs from April to October, and there are touring plays and concerts during the rest of the year. The Festival offers some of the best productions you are likely to see - not just outside of London, but anywhere. Last year's production of Macbeth, with Patrick Stewart in the lead, transferred to London, and then to New York.

Funny Girl is the opening production of the 2008 season. There will be plenty of 'must see' shows, including the Music Man, Six Characters in Search of an Author, a stage version of Calendar Girls. As usual, there will be something for the whole family, a promenade performance of Toad of Toad Hall. This will take place amonst the gardens, lakes and courtyard of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars' headquarters near Goodwood.

For full details of this seasons's productions, see www.cft.org.uk. The website gives ticket prices, an explanation of how to book, and information about facilities for those with disabilities.

The theatre has an in-house restaurant, and the website provides contact information should you wish to make a booking.

Fishbourne Roman Palace is situated about one and a half miles west of Chichester. If you are interested in Roman History, try to make time to visit this. If you are travelling with children, this is a 'must see' destination.

The remains of this once-magnificant palace were found by chance in 1960. The site has now been excavated, and a building has been constructed around the remains, so that it is preserved and can be viewed in all weathers.

The attached museum is extremely interesting. The site is owned and managed by the Sussex Archaeological Society. Their primary aim is education; this site is certainly a success. Everyone that I have ever taken, of any age, has been enthralled.

For more information, see www.sussexpast.co.uk