The countdown is on to one of the most ambitious artistic events in Chichester Cathedral’s history. Opening on Friday 24 October, the Chichester950 Light Experience will transform the Cathedral’s Nave, arches and sacred spaces through a mesmerising blend of light, sound and storytelling.
Created by Luxmuralis – the internationally acclaimed collaboration between artist Peter Walker and composer David Harper – this one-of-a-kind installation has been designed especially for Chichester. Running for just eight magical evenings from 24 to 31 October (5.00–8.00pm), the experience will take visitors on a luminous journey through nine centuries of history, reimagined in vivid colour, music and movement.
So why not make a day (or evening) of it? With half term in full swing and the whole city celebrating, here’s how to turn your visit into a perfect Chichester adventure - whether you’re coming as a family or as culture-loving explorers.
For families: play, discover, and be dazzled
Morning
Start your day with some fresh air at Priory Park, where little ones can run wild, spot wildlife and enjoy the newly refurbished playground, while grown-ups take in the historic city walls and Chichester’s Guildhall before grabbing a hot drink from the family-run park café Fenwicks (not open on Mondays).
If the weather turns, or for those fascinated by stories of the past, head inside to the Cathedral and take part in our free Wilfrid the Seal Family Trail – a wonderful way to explore 950 years of history. With Wilfrid the Seal as your friendly guide, this self-led adventure invites families to uncover fascinating treasures from the Chichester950 exhibition, Religion, Rebellion & Reformation. Ideal for all ages, each trail pack includes games, puzzles, and even a recipe to try at home – making it a memorable experience, rain or shine.
Afternoon
Make your way back towards the Cathedral and enjoy a bit of toy shop treasure hunting – perfect for sparking ideas for what Father Christmas might bring this year. You’ll find The Entertainer on East Street as well as Whirligig, Kids Stuff and The Sussex Bookshop all along South Street, each packed with creative toys, games and gifts. There’s also Waterstones, opposite the Cathedral, perfect for story time inspiration.
For kids that love to craft, there are plenty of creative workshops to discover in the city. On 29 and 30 October (1.30–3pm), families can head to Pallant House Gallery for Light: Illuminated Windows, a creative workshop exploring the magical effect of light and colour through stained glass. Tickets are just £4 per child, with full details and booking available on the Pallant House Gallery website. The Gallery will also be hosting free drop-in sessions from the 28 October - 2 November, where young creatives can decorate their own Cathedral window using the materials and templates provided in this self-led activity. Or head to Jam Café on South Street, a wonderful community space that will be running activities including slime making, pumpkin carving and more.
Ready to refuel? There are so many family-friendly eateries in the city from independent coffee shops to popular restaurants offering all cuisines. A number of businesses are running special discounts to Chichester950 Light Experience ticket holders, including Slim Chickens on East Street where you can enjoy 20% off all in-store food. For something sweet, stop by The Real Eating Company on North Street and treat yourself to a hot chocolate with cream or a pumpkin spice latte (10% off for ticket holders).
Evening
As twilight falls, make your way to Chichester Cathedral and prepare to be mesmerised as centuries of history unfold in light, sound and colour. Kids will be enchanted by the spectacle – a magical way to round off a family day out.
For culture lovers: art, history, and an evening of light
Morning or Early Afternoon
Start your day with a leisurely stroll around Chichester’s historic city walls and the tranquil Bishop’s Palace Gardens – a peaceful green haven tucked behind the Cathedral, perfect for taking in the city’s timeless beauty.
From there, wander into the city to discover cultural gems including Oxmarket Contemporary and the award-winning Pallant House Gallery, whose founding collection of modern art was bequeathed by former Dean of Chichester, Walter Hussey (1909-85). There is also a selection of art shops and galleries to explore such as Artisan Gallery and Cloud Gallery on North Street as well as Graffiti Street on West Street.
While in the city, you will pass an eclectic mix of independent boutiques that are ideal for a spot of shopping and window browsing.
Feeling ready for lunch? Head to one of the many eateries in the city centre offering delicious menus for all tastes and budgets. There’s also our own Cloisters Kitchen & Garden.
Afternoon
Now it’s time to see the Cathedral from a whole new perspective. Climb high above the city on a Cathedral Spire Visit – available weekdays at 2pm, and 12pm & 2pm on Saturdays – for spectacular views stretching across the South Downs. Advanced booking required.
If you’ve not got a head for heights, there’s still plenty to explore within the Cathedral itself. Guided tours, led by the Cathedral’s knowledgeable volunteers, bring nine fascinating centuries of history vividly to life. Or take your time and self-guide through this remarkable space, discovering treasures old and new.
Be sure to visit our acclaimed 950th Anniversary exhibition Religion, Rebellion & Reformation, which has proved so popular it’s been extended until February 2026. This captivating display explores 950 years of faith in Sussex.
Evening
As day turns to dusk, enjoy dinner at Brasserie Blanc in Eastgate Square where Light Experience ticket holders can enjoy a complimentary glass of prosecco when dining from the à la carte menu (two
courses). Then return to the Cathedral for the Chichester950 Light Experience, and watch as its ancient walls come alive in light, sound and colour - a spellbinding finale to your cultural Chichester day out.
A city illuminated
To celebrate this extraordinary week, Chichester City Council will illuminate The Cross and the Assembly Rooms in the Chichester950 anniversary colours each evening from 5.00pm to midnight, creating a festive glow across the city.
Getting to Chichester
Getting to Chichester is easy, especially with our Chichester950 supporters Stagecoach, whose bus services stop right by the Cathedral – making your visit simple, convenient, and even dog-friendly. If you’re travelling by train, the Cathedral is just a 10-minute, flat walk from Chichester Railway Station along Southgate and West Street. For those arriving by car, the city is easily reached from the M27 (A27), with plenty of public parking available around the city centre.
To book your tickets to the Chichester950 Light Experience
click here or call 0333 666 3366.