LOCATION
Nestled between the white sandy beaches of West Wittering and the stunning South Downs, the cathedral city of Chichester is so idyllic it is easy to envisage it as a desirable destination for a long weekend. What if we told you it’s also the perfect place to live? Chichester HOT spot
1 The cathedral, complete with its Chagall stained-glass window 2 The incredible range of quality independent shops and restaurants 3 Chichester Harbour; designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty 4 Glorious Goodwood – always a fantastic day out, whatever the occasion! 5 The relaxed pace of life and community feel 5 REASONS WE LOVE… CHICHESTER
UNDER THE SPOTLIGHT
OUT AND ABOUT The unspoilt natural beauty that surrounds Chichester is the biggest draw for many would-be residents.The South Downs National Park is on the doorstep and covers a massive 1,600 sq km, stretching across to the white cliffs of the Seven Sisters. Love to be near the sea? Head to Chichester Harbour, designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty – 55,000 birds visit the saltmarsh and mudflats at this wildlife Haven – or the sandy dunes of beautiful West Wittering.You are also in the perfect spot to enjoy outdoor pursuits, from walking and cycling to more adventurous activities on the water. Clubs such as Chichester Yacht Club have a full calendar of events. The Westgate Leisure Centre is another excellent facility for fitness enthusiasts. Explore the city walls walk – Chichester’s incredible Roman walls were built 1,800 years ago and 80% are still standing. Make your way from there to Chichester Cathedral, where free guided tours are available. The building has a rich history and boasts original features, next to
area, and the house prices reect this, with North, South, East and West Pallant, off South Street, offering some of the most desirable homes. If period properties are your thing, you’re in the right place; streets around the city boast Grade II listed Georgian townhouses and terraces with period features including sash windows. Head out of the city for more variety and more reasonable prices. In the suburbs you’ll nd 1930s and post-war homes, in addition to modern builds. There are some great new developments popping up to meet the demand for more affordable homes. It is well worth taking a day or two to explore the villages around Chichester, to identify areas that suit your lifestyle and budget best. Summersdale, about a mile north of the city, is popular for its green spaces, while
Chichester is located on England’s south west coast; West Sussex’s only city. This small city with a big (medieval) heart is encircled by original Roman walls and oozes charm. The largely pedestrianised Georgian city centre has been well preserved and is dominated by the famous 900-year-old Chichester Cathedral and its gardens. Four main streets head north, east, south and west from the market cross, each offering an impressive mix of independent and mainstream shops and eateries. Chichester is well connected. The A27, which connects Eastbourne with Southampton, passes to the south of the city and connects to the M27, M3 and M275, while Chichester railway station offers regular services to Brighton, Littlehampton, Portsmouth and Southampton. Planning to commute? The journey to London Victoria takes 90 minutes, while Gatwick is an hour away. Portsmouth International Port is also conveniently within a 30-minute drive, with ferry services to France, Spain and the Channel Islands. Chichester’s desirable location, coupled with its unique blend of history and culture, make it an attractive prospect for those looking to escape the rat race. For families, the high standard of schools is an added incentive. The property market in Chichester is vibrant and varied. The entire centre is a conservation
Fishbourne, to the west, offers a more rural setting with easy access to the
harbour. Tangmere, to the east, is best known for its historical community spirit. Woodgate has everything you need – a supermarket, Post Ofce, friendly pub (with excellent Sunday roast!), community centre and gym, with the peace and quiet you'd expect from its rural setting.
artwork by John Piper and Marc Chagall.
50 First Time Buyer June/July 2024
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