Looking for ways to keep the whole family entertained this May half term? Chichester has an incredible array of activities, workshops, and events to ensure a fun-filled week for all ages. From creative art sessions to historical re-enactments, here’s your ultimate guide to enjoying everything our wonderful city has to offer.
Arts and Crafts Fun
Roman Shields at Chichester Festival Theatre:
On Tuesday 27th May from 9.30am to 11.30am, bring out your child’s inner gladiator at this hands-on workshop where they can create their own Centurion Shield to take home using a variety of materials. Suitable for ages 8-12. Tickets cost £10 per child. Book your spot here: Roman Shields with Mrs Blossom Makes | Chichester Festival Theatre
Make a Ceramic Coaster for Father’s Day at Biscuit Pottery:
Get crafty on Saturday 31st May from 1.30pm to 3.30pm and create a personalised ceramic coaster just in time for Father’s Day. Children can hand-build and decorate a one-of-a-kind gift that’s both thoughtful and functional. Suitable for age 5+ and tickets cost £15 per child. Find out more information and book here: Make a ceramic coaster for Father’s Day | Biscuit Pottery
Meet an Artwork at Pallant House Gallery:
On Monday 26th May from 11.15am to 2.00pm explore one of Pallant House Gallery’s iconic artworks in a family-friendly activity that includes sketchbooks and pencils for kids to take home. Tickets cost £4 per child.
After this, why not Make an Artwork from 1.30pm to 3.00pm. Inspired by Joe Tilson’s Small Geometry No. 1, children can create their own masterpiece. Tickets cost £7.50 per child.
Find out more on both these activities and book your tickets here: Children’s Workshop | Meet an Artwork.
Decorate a Mini Terracotta Pot at The Novium Museum:
Channel your creativity by decorating a mini terracotta pot inspired by ancient Roman designs on 30th May at 11.00am. Suitable for children aged 4-11. Tickets cost £7 and can be booked here.
Step into History with Roman Week
Celebrate Chichester’s rich Roman heritage with Roman Week, a series of interactive events designed to engage visitors of all ages.
Roman Re-Enactment at Priory Park:
Join the action on 29th May from 10.00am to 4.00pm, where you can experience history like never before. Highlights include:
• Gladiator Fights & Soldier Re-enactments
• Explore a Roman Military Camp featuring real Roman artillery, a field medicine tent, and more.
• Daily Roman Life Exhibit showcasing Roman food, home life, religion, and slavery.
Why not dress the part and enjoy food vendors like Woodies Woodfire Pizza on-site! Entry is free, with some activities requiring a small fee. Learn more here: Chichester BID Roman Re-Enactment at Priory Park – Chichester BID
Roman Storytelling at The Novium Museum
Dive into ancient myths with an action-packed storytelling session where history comes to life with a Roman storytelling workshop. Recommended for ages 5-10. Tickets cost £8, book your spot here: Interactive Roman Storytelling Workshop – The Novium Museum
Family Fun at Chichester Cathedral
Running for the whole of half term and beyond, take part in the Wilfrid the Seal FREE Family Trail, where young explorers can uncover treasures and history as they follow Wilfrid’s historic route. Afterwards, why not relax with some treats at the stunning Cloisters Café. Find out more here: Wilfrid the Seal | Trail for Children and Families | Chichester Cathedral
Picnic & Explore!
Nothing beats a sunny spring walk or a family picnic. There are so many places to enjoy a picnic or stroll in Chichester. The City Walls Walk offers stunning historic views, whilst Priory Park provides open family-friendly green spaces, and not forgetting Bishop’s Palace Gardens for the perfect peaceful picnic surrounded by blooming flowers.
Plan Your Week in Chichester
With so many activities happening this May half term, there’s something for everyone in Chichester. Mark your calendar, book workshops early, and prepare to make some special half-term memories. Happy exploring!
