Chichester Cathedral has been recognised with a tourism award for delivering exceptional experiences to all visitors during its landmark 950th anniversary year.
The Beautiful South Tourism Awards celebrate excellence across the South East’s visitor economy, recognising attractions and organisations that deliver outstanding experiences for visitors. The Cathedral was presented with a bronze award in the Large Visitor Attraction of the Year category, alongside historic attractions Drusilla’s Park, Hever Castle & Gardens and Bletchley Park.
2025 marked the Cathedral’s 950th anniversary, a landmark year celebrated through the ambitious Chichester950 programme. Over 200,000 people visited the Cathedral throughout the year, engaging with exhibitions, concerts, pilgrimages and community initiatives. Highlights included:
- Religion, Rebellion & Reformation exhibition: tracing nearly a millennium of history, extended due to overwhelming public interest.
- Choral and music events: including a special concert marking the 60th anniversary of Leonard Bernstein's Chichester Psalms and newly commissioned works.
- Community creative projects:Draw950, Write950, Fish950 and Sing950 invited families to turn the Nave into a giant canvas, inspired young storytellers, showcased vibrant art installations from local pupils, and brought 12 schools together in song from across East and West Sussex.
- Luxmuralis immersive finale: a spectacular light and sound installation drawing nearly 15,000 visitors over eight evenings, raising around £150,000 for the Cathedral, a registered charity.
The Chichester950 programme not only attracted visitors but also delivered measurable benefits to the city’s economy. Increased footfall supported city centre businesses, hospitality and retail, while fostering collaboration across community groups. Helen Marshall, Chair of Chichester BID, said: “The Chichester950 programme has been hugely positive for our city centre businesses. It increased visitor numbers, encouraged community collaboration and delivered a much-needed boost to local spending across most sectors.”
Looking ahead
The Cathedral is already planning for 2026, including a major exhibition marking the sixtieth anniversary of John Piper’s High Altar tapestry. The Cathedral remains committed to providing cultural programming that enriches the visitor experience, supports the local economy and brings communities together.
Reflecting on this spectacular year, The Very Reverend Dr Edward Dowler said: “One of our hopes for this anniversary was to inspire a renewed sense of pride and ownership of the Cathedral – not only as a historic landmark, but as a living, breathing centre of faith and creativity. We are excited to continue this journey as we look ahead to our next chapter.”
