Transforming an underused historic building into sustainable income for the Cathedral’s future.
The Challenge
By 2020, the Treasury building — located just off the Cathedral’s Cloisters — was being used primarily for offices and storage.
While functional, the space was underutilised and generating no meaningful income. At a time when long-term financial resilience is essential to sustaining the Cathedral’s worship, outreach and conservation work, there was a clear opportunity to think differently about how the building could serve the Cathedral’s future.
The challenge was to repurpose the space sensitively, maintaining its historic character while creating a viable and sustainable income stream.
The Solution
Working closely with the Cathedral Chapter, the Chichester Cathedral Restoration & Development Trust supported the comprehensive reconfiguration and refurbishment of the building.
The project transformed the interior into four high-quality, self-contained studio apartments, designed for short-term holiday lets.
Each suite was finished to a high standard and includes:
- A large bed and lounge area with sofa
- Smart TV and free WiFi
- A small kitchenette
- A newly fitted modern bathroom
- Tea and coffee facilities and eco-friendly toiletries
- Contactless check-in
One ground-floor suite was designed with accessibility in mind, offering step-free level access directly from the entrance.
Now known as The Treasury Suites, the apartments enjoy views across the Cathedral Close and provide guests with a unique opportunity to stay at the heart of a historic site.
The Impact
The Treasury Suites now generate a valuable and sustainable income stream that directly supports the Cathedral’s ongoing maintenance and mission.
The project has:
- Brought a historic but underused building back into active use
- Created long-term financial resilience
- Enhanced visitor engagement with the Cathedral site
- Combined conservation with imaginative adaptation
The accommodation has been recognised with Traveller Review Awards 2026 from Booking.com, reflecting consistently high guest satisfaction.
By investing in enterprise as well as conservation, the Cathedral is strengthening its ability to fund future fabric and environmental projects.
Book your stay at a Cathedral property.
Funding & Partnership
The project was supported by the Chichester Cathedral Restoration & Development Trust in partnership with the Cathedral Chapter.
Together, they transformed a functional ancillary space into an elegant and welcoming place of hospitality — securing a new income stream that will benefit the Cathedral for years to come.
Looking Ahead
Income-generating initiatives such as the Treasury Suites play a vital role in supporting the Cathedral’s wider programme of conservation and sustainability work.
By combining heritage stewardship with creative adaptation, the Cathedral ensures that its historic buildings continue to serve both its worshipping community and the wider public.
Support Our Ongoing Work
Innovative projects like the Treasury Suites help strengthen the Cathedral’s financial resilience — but continued conservation and development still rely on generous philanthropic support.
Your gift will help us care for our historic buildings, invest in sustainability, and secure the Cathedral’s future.
Chichester Cathedral Restoration & Development Trust CIO
Registered Charity No. 1156729
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