Join us this summer for Summer of Colour, a free family trail with drop-in creative activities at Chichester Cathedral. Running 10 July – 4 September 2026, the trail invites children and their grown-ups to explore colour, creativity and discovery throughout the Cathedral during the school holidays.
Follow the colours
Beginning beneath John Piper's celebrated tapestry, our free self-led trail takes families on a colourful journey through six locations across the Cathedral.
There is no set route to follow, so you can explore at your own pace, following the colours and uncovering new details along the way. Guiding young adventurers throughout the trail is our much-loved Wilfrid the Seal – a hand-illustrated character named after Saint Wilfrid, founder of the original Cathedral in Selsey more than 950 years ago.
As you explore, you'll discover six colours featured in Piper's tapestry and learn how he used colour to create meaning, atmosphere and visual impact in his work, while uncovering colourful details within the Cathedral's art, architecture and history.
Get creative
Along the trail, children can enjoy a range of drop-in creative activities inspired by colour and pattern. Activities include:
- Contributing to a large collaborative weaving artwork that will grow throughout the summer
- Creating stained glass-inspired crafts
- Completing a specially commissioned hand-drawn colouring sheet created exclusively for the trail
Families are welcome to return throughout the summer to revisit their favourite activities and see how the communal weaving artwork develops over time.
Plan vour visit
Summer of Colour is designed to be enjoyed at your own pace and makes a perfect morning or afternoon activity for families. After your visit, you can relax in the beautiful walled garden at the Cloisters Kitchen & Garden Café and enjoy refreshments, lunch or a treat.
Dates: 10 July – 4 September 2026
Cathedral opening hours:
- Monday–Saturday: 9.00am–5.00pm
- Sunday: 12.30pm–2.30pm
Admission: Free (donations welcome)
Glowing + Alive and the accompanying programme has been generously supported by Henry Adams Estate Agents.
