Explore 800 Years of Civic History at the Chichester City Council House

Chichester City Council will open the historic Council House for Heritage Open Days, offering rare access to one of the city’s most significant civic buildings. Built in 1731, the Council House contains rooms that reflect centuries of local governance, justice, and community life.

Visitors will be able to explore areas normally closed to the public, including the Mayor’s Parlour, still used today for private meetings and the Council Chamber, where Council Meetings continue to take place.

A new display in the Ante Room will highlight the craftsmanship and artistic legacy of the Smith Brothers, providing fresh insight into Chichester’s cultural heritage.

This year also marks nine centuries since the establishment of Chichester’s civic administration. Special exhibits in the Ante Room and Council Chamber will include the original Town Clerk’s wig, the Mayor’s Robe, and early documents relating to the formation of the Council.

The building’s long history includes its former role as the city’s Magistrates’ Court, with the Old Court Room added in 1881, and the Assembly Room, created in 1782, serving as a venue for social gatherings of polite society.

City Councillors and local historians will be on hand to guide visitors, sharing stories and insights into each room’s past. Booking is not required, though guided tours may involve a short wait.

Timings

Sunday 13 September:

10am to 4pm

Location & directions

Chichester City Council, The Council House, North Street, Chichester, West Sussex, PO19 1LQ

Directions:

No parking on site but there is public car parks close by. Entrance via North Street a pedestrianised road.

Contact on day:

Claire Adams

Telephone number:

+441243788502

Booking information

Pre-booking requirement:

Pre-booking not required

Accessibility details

Some areas are not accessible for wheelchair users but the majority of the Council House is wheelchair accessible.

Additional information

Max number of people:

10

Estimated duration:

0 hour(s) 30 minute(s)

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