Chichester Cathedral has been named one of the best free days out in the UK.
The West Sussex landmark was included in a new list compiled by Which? of top-rated historical sites, museums, galleries and cathedrals that offer free entry.
The cathedral was listed among 17 of the best-rated free attractions in the UK.
It was chosen as part of a wider survey carried out by Which? involving more than 3,000 people sharing their favourite historic sites.
History of Chichester Cathedral
Chichester Cathedral, formally known as the Cathedral Church of the Holy Trinity, has stood for nearly 1,000 years.
The seat of the Anglican Bishop of Chichester, it was established as a cathedral in 1075 when the bishop's seat was moved from Selsey.
The tower notably survived a lightning strike in 1721, and during the 18th century various works and repairs were undertaken.
A restoration programme began in 1812, and in 1829 the cathedral was closed for several months while major repairs and improvements were carried out.
In 1861 the cathedral spire telescoped in on itself, and a fund was set up to raise the £48,000 needed for the rebuilding, with contributors including Queen Victoria and Prince Albert.
In 2008, the cathedral community celebrated the 900th anniversary of the building's consecration.
It is notable for its striking architecture and spire, the third tallest in England and the only medieval cathedral spire in the country visible from the sea.
The cathedral contains two rare medieval sculptures, and many modern artworks including tapestries, stained glass and sculpture.
The tower contains a ring of eight bells with a tenor dating from 1706, cast by Richard Phelps.
Recognised by Which?
Visitors can enjoy the cathedral by offering a voluntary donation, with £7 suggested per visitor.
Which? said: "Chichester's glorious spire can be seen from miles across the flower meadows of West Sussex.
"It's also the only medieval English cathedral visible from the sea."
You can explore the cathedral, attend services, join guided tours, or take part in seasonal events throughout the year.
There is also the volunteer-run Cathedral Shop, offering an "ever-changing range of Chichester Cathedral souvenirs, unique items created by local craftsmen, fair trade gifts, vibrant traditional toys and sacred music".
For those looking to relax during their visit, the Cloisters Kitchen & Garden serves locally roasted coffee and tea, fresh pastries, seasonal salads, and artisan sandwiches, using produce from independent Sussex makers.
There are plenty of things to do in wider Chichester, too, making the city ideal for a day out.
Visit Chichester lists things to do in the city centre, recommending places such as the City Walls, Priory Park, Novium Museum and Chichester Art Trail.
If you are looking for things to do around Chichester too, the South Downs National Park is hugely popular and full of trails, walking routes and more to visit.
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Visit Chichester adds: "Further afield, there’s no better place to make the most of the great outdoors than the Witterings.
"The pretty market towns of Midhurst and Petworth and the seaside town of Selsey are not far away and well worth a visit whilst you're in the area."
Have you visited Chichester Cathedral before? Let us know in the comments.
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