- Heritage

The Royal Pavilion

Universally acclaimed as one of the most exotically beautiful buildings in the British Isles, the Royal Pavilion is the former seaside residence of King George IV. Originally a simple farmhouse, in 1787 architect Henry Holland created a neo-classical villa on the site. It was later transformed into its current Indian style by John Nash between 1815 and 1822. With interiors decorated in the Chinese style and an astonishingly exotic exterior, this Regency Palace is quite breathtaking. Magnificent decorations and fantastic furnishings have been recreated in the recent extensive restoration programme. From the opulence of the main state rooms to the charm of the first floor bedroom suites, the Royal Pavilion is filled with astonishing colours and superb craftsmanship. Witness the magnificence of the Music Room with its domed ceiling of gilded scallop-shaped shells and hand-knotted carpet, and promenade through the Chinese bamboo grove of the Long Gallery. Lavish menus were created in the Great Kitchen, with its cast iron palm trees and dazzling collection of copperware, and then served in the dramatic setting of the Banqueting Room, lit by a huge crystal chandelier held by a silvered dragon…

Anne Of Cleves House

This atmospheric timber framed house was once owned by Anne of Cleves. Today you can explore the pretty Tudor garden, kitchen, and house which are furnished in period style, and give you a real sense of how people lived then. The building is also home to an eclectic local history museum including the Wealden Iron Gallery…

Arundel Cathedral

French Gothic Cathedral, church of the RC Diocese of Arundel and Brighton built by Henry, 15th Duke of Norfolk and opened 1873…

Bignor Roman Villa

One of the largest villas to be open to the public in Great Britain, with some of the finest mosaics all in situ and all under cover, including Medusa, Venus & Cupid Gladiators and ganymede. Discovered in 1811 and open to the public since 1814. See the longest mosaic on display in Great Britain at 24 metres. Walk on original floors dating back to circa 350 AD. We have a small cafe and picnic area available…

Chichester Cathedral

In the heart of Chichester, this magnificent 900 year old Cathedral has treasures ranging from medieval stone carvings to world famous 20th century artworks. Open every day and all year with free entry. Free guided tours and special trails for children. Regular exhibitions, free weekly lunchtime concerts and a superb Cloisters Restaurant and Shop. A fascinating place to visit…

Clinton Lodge Garden

Clinton Lodge is named after one of Wellington’s generals at Waterloo. The simple lawn and parkland beyond the gate reflect the 18th century facade. Beyond are double blue and white herbaceous borders between yew and box hedges, a cloister walk swathed in white roses, clematis and geraniums, a Herb Garden where hedges of box envelop herbs, seats are of turf, paths of camomile. A Pear Walk bursts with alliums or lilies, a Potager of flowers for cutting, old roses surround a magnificent water feature by William Pye, and much more. Private groups by appointment…

Denmans Garden

A unique 20th century 4 acre garden designed for year round interest - through use of form, colour and texture - owned by John Brookes MBE, renowned garden designer and writer and Michael Neve. Beautiful plant centre, gift shop, garden shop and fully licensed multi award winning Garden Cafe…

Firle Place

Firle Place is the home of the Gage family and has been for over 500 years. Set at the foot of the Sussex Downs within its own parkland, this unique house originally Tudor, was built of Caen stone, possibly from a monastery dissolved by Sir John Gage, friend of Henry VIII. Remodelled in the 18th century it is similar in appearance to that of a French chateau. The house contains a magnificent collection of Old Master paintings, fine English and European furniture and an impressive collection of Sevres porcelain collected mainly by the 3rd Earl Cowper from Panshanger House, Hertfordshire. Events: The Great Tudor Hall can, on occasion, be used for private dinners, with drinks on the Terrace or in the Billiard Room. A private tour of the house can be arranged. Events are held in the Park and House during the year and wedding receptions can be held in the Park or Old Riding School. For all event enquiries, contact the Estate Office on 01273 858567. Restaurant: Enjoy the licensed restaurant and tea terrace with views over the garden for luncheon and cream teas…

Fishbourne Roman Palace

The remains of a palatial Roman building constructed in the 1st century AD. View the stunning Roman mosaics and the replanted Roman garden. Visitors may join a tour of the Palace site as well as the popular Behind the Scenes Tour during which they are able to handle original artefacts and learn about their storage and conservation…

Hammerwood Park

Built in 1792 as a hunting lodge by Benjamin Henry Latrobe, architect of the Capitol and the White House, Washington DC. Owned by Led Zeppelin in the 1970s, and rescued from dereliction in 1982. Teas in the Elgin Room; copy of the Parthenon frieze; a derelict dining room still shocks the unwary. Restoration ongoing. Guided tours (said by many to be the most interesting in Sussex) by the family. Concerts held in summer…