For fantastic family-friendly things to do this half term, Chichester city centre is the place to be. With a fantastic line-up of activities, workshops, and events for all ages including hands-on art sessions and a spectacular light experience, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Keep reading for our family-friendly guide to the very best things to do in Chichester city centre this half term…
Chichester950 Light Experience
24 to 31 of October
This October half term, Chichester Cathedral will come alive in a spectacular display of colour and sound as the Chichester950 Light Experience takes over. Running from the 24th to 31st of October, this immersive installation by world-renowned artists Luxmuralis will transform the ancient building into a glowing celebration of its 950-year history.
Visitors can expect a magical experience as thousands of images, lights, and sounds weave together stories from the past in a truly unforgettable way.
Click here for more information and to book your tickets.
Get Creative at Pallant House Gallery
Pallant House Gallery are hosting some fantastic family workshops this October half term, designed to complement the magical Chichester950 Light Experience at the Cathedral.
On 29th and 30th October (1.30pm to 3pm) the Gallery will run a special family workshop inspired by the beauty of stained glass. Light: Illuminated Windows invites children and their grown-ups to explore the dazzling effect of light and colour through a guided look at some of the Gallery’s own historic windows, followed by the chance to create a beautiful stained-glass design to take home.
Tickets are just £4 per child. To book your place and find full details, please click here.
If you’re unable to attend the workshop, don’t worry – a free drop-in activity will be available at Pallant House Gallery from 28th October to 2nd November. Children are welcome to pop in and decorate their own Cathedral-inspired window using the materials and templates provided in this self-led activity.
Uncovering History at The Novium Museum
With over half a million artefacts in its collection, The Novium Museum is a great place to discover a treasure trove of history. This half term alongside its current exhibitions on Shippam’s and The Selsey Tramway, the museum will be holding a special Roman Villa – Live Like an Emperor event inviting you to Make Your Own Jarvis Jar on the 29th of October and an Introduction to Indian Miniature Painting on the 1st of November.
Click here to find out more and book your tickets.
Halloween Fun at Jam Café
For a relaxed and family-friendly spot to unwind, Jam Café is a brilliant choice.
Tucked away on Southgate, this cosy community café is run by local charity Creative Beatz and is all about good vibes and great food. This half term Jam Café will be hosting more of its much-loved workshops including family-friendly Halloween crafts on the 25th October and Movie Making Workshops on the 27th and 28th October (for ages 14+).
Visit their website to find out more.
Child Friendly Places to Eat in Chichester
Once you’ve had your fill of the activities on offer, Chichester has a fantastic range of family-friendly places to refuel. Whether you’re craving pizza, pub grub, or plant-based dishes, you’ll find plenty of welcoming places with menus that cater to younger diners too.
From favourite pizza spots including Franco Manco, Zizzis and Pizza Express to child friendly places like Bill’s, The Ghost at the Feast and Shake-a-Delic.
Plus several Chichester eateries are serving up fantastic offers to help keep costs down. At Côte Brasserie on South Street, from 24–31 October (Monday–Friday), children can enjoy two free courses from the children’s menu with every adult main purchased. Or start your day with their breakfast offer – kids eat free when you order your own brekkie and sign up to the Côte newsletter. And by popular demand, the much-loved Steak Frites is back on the kids’ menu – just ask the team!
Over on Cooper Street, The Lunch Box is offering kids’ meals for just £1 with every full-paying adult lunch, while Piccolino is also joining in the fun, with children dining for £1 with every adult main ordered from the restaurant menu.
And finally, The Ivy Chichester Brasserie is re-launching its ever-popular Kids Dine on Us promotion – perfect for a stylish family treat in the heart of the city.
Places to Play in Chichester
With a wealth of green spaces, many of which boast fresh new children’s play areas including Priory Park and Oaklands Park, there is plenty of space for kids to let loose in Chichester city centre.
As well as a fantastic new playground, Priory Park also has the lovely Fenwick’s Cafe, so it is the perfect place to grab a coffee and relax whilst the kids let off some steam.
There’s something for everyone in Chichester city centre this October half term. Enjoy a fun-filled week of family adventures and lasting memories in our historical city.