American Day Tour

The American Patrons of Chichester Cathedral invite you to an exclusive tour exploring Chichester Cathedral, to discover a fascinating Anglo-American heritage.

Supported by our Cathedral Guides and Librarian, guests will be able to go behind the scenes, discover historic artefacts and hear stories that reflect a shared heritage, alongside exceptional artwork.

On arrival you will be welcomed by the Dean of Chichester, the Very Reverend Stephen Waine, before your tour commences. Discover more about the historical connections that exist between Sussex and America over a delicious two course lunch in the beautiful Cathedral Close. After lunch, you will return to the Cathedral to complete your tour, and you will then have some free time to enjoy the historic City of Chichester, or spend more time exploring the Cathedral, before choral evensong, sung by our world-class Cathedral choir.

After evensong, there is a limited-availability option to visit West Sussex Records Office, to view the ‘Sussex Declaration’ (the only ceremonial parchment manuscript copy of the American Declaration of Independence besides the one kept in the National Archives in Washington D.C.) County Archivist, Wendy Walker, will also present the recent project with Harvard University in discovering our Transatlantic Ties. This visit is only available to six guests per Day Tour, and is offered on a first-come first-served basis, so book early to guarantee your place.

The tour commences at 11.00am, allowing time for you to travel to Chichester. Our Cathedral is a short walk from Chichester train station (travel by train to Chichester from London is approx. 90mins); alternatively there a number of City Centre car parks. More information about visiting us is available here. Your day ends after choral evensong at 6.15pm, or by 7.30pm for those visiting the Records Office. There are plenty of City Centre hotels offering accommodation to suit all tastes, for those wishing to extend their visit.

Tickets at £120 per person include lunch, as well as a donation to Chichester Cathedral.

Please note:

  • Travel to Chichester is by your own arrangement.
  • Whilst we will maintain a leisurely pace, please note the tour will involve walking around the Cathedral Close and, in the Cathedral, there are 42 steps up to the library.
  • Tickets are limited to 12 guests per tour.

To book your ticket please contact: