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Novium Museum Chichester

4.5
·873 reviews·, United Kingdom

Explore Chichester's Roman past, local history, and 80s nostalgia at this engaging, free-entry museum.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

May Half-Term

Roman Week events are exciting!

CrowdMedium
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Our first floor gallery - History of Chichester District

Novium Museum Chichester

Best Time

May Half-Term

Roman Week events are exciting!

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore Chichester's Roman past, local history, and 80s nostalgia at this engaging, free-entry museum.

4.5
(873 reviews)

"A fantastic free museum with a great 80s exhibition and Roman remains!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Free General Admission

Enjoy the Roman history and city exhibits without an entry fee! Special exhibits may cost extra.

🕹️ Retro Arcade Fun

Test your skills on classic 80s games like Donkey Kong for just 50p a play!

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Roman Bath House Remains

Roman Bath House Remains

Ground Floor

Step back in time to explore the remarkably preserved remains of Chichester's Roman bath house.

'I Grew Up 80s' Exhibition

'I Grew Up 80s' Exhibition

Special Exhibition Space

Relive the raddest decade with iconic toys, arcade games, music, and fashion from the 1980s.

Shippam's History

Shippam's History

Second Floor

Discover the fascinating two-century history of Chichester's famous Shippam's brand, a leader in paste markets.

Cathedral Views

Cathedral Views

Second Floor

Enjoy a fantastic elevated view of Chichester Cathedral from the museum's upper level.

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Free Entry, Special Exhibits Extra

General admission to The Novium Museum is free, offering a great way to explore Chichester's Roman past and local history. However, special temporary exhibitions, like the popular 'I Grew Up 80s', often have an additional fee, so check in advance to budget accordingly. Reddit

Plan for Interactive Fun

This museum is more than just displays; it's interactive! From retro arcade games to hands-on elements for kids, it's designed to engage. Consider visiting during special event weeks like Roman Week for an even more immersive experience. TikTokInstagram

Best Times

When
May Half-Term
Why
Roman Week events are exciting!
Crowd
Medium
When
February Half-Term
Why
80s fun for families
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday Mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more space
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

If you didn’t long for a Mr. Frosty, were you even an 80s kid? ❄️ The ultimate childhood treat! Relive your 80s childhood with I Grew Up 80s at The Novium Museum in Chichester, open until 8th June ⚡ #80sThrowback #ChildhoodMemories #80sKid #MrFrosty #Slushie #80sNostalgia #ClassicToys #RetroVibes #RetroToys #creatorsearchinsights
@noviummuseum
5.2K likes • 167.9K views

🎯 Free General Admission

Enjoy the Roman history and city exhibits without an entry fee! Special exhibits may cost extra. Reddit

🕹️ Retro Arcade Fun

Test your skills on classic 80s games like Donkey Kong for just 50p a play! TikTokReddit

Your sign to visit Chichester ✨👇 ⛪️ Go on a free guided tour of the Cathedral 🏺Visit @The Novium Museum & get up to speed on Chichester’s roman past 🥪 Delish lunch at The Barn Little London 🪴 Walk around the Bishop’s Garden. * instantly calm* 🖼️ Pallant House for exhibitions & more 🛍️ Did someone say the BEST high street ever?? So many cute shops ☕️ Grab a hot drink & sweet treat at The Barn’...
@georgeinlondon
1.1K likes • 50.5K views
The Novium museum and ‘I grew up 80s exhibition’ #museum #museumexhibition #exhibition #history #popculture #travel #tourism #chichester #fyp
from_page_to_stage_
4 likes • 148 views

📸 Great Cathedral Views

Head to the second floor for a stunning perspective of Chichester Cathedral. Reddit

🛍️ Gift Card Hub

Pick up Chichester Gift Cards here for local shopping. Instagram

💝Get the perfect present with the Chichester Gift Card - spend it on fashion, health & beauty, food & drink, lifestyle, hospitality, and more. 👛Buy physical or digital gift cards online or at The Novium Museum or Collect and Click from local businesses including Dartagnan, Whirligig, The Bazaar and Good News Newsagents. Visit chichesterbid.co.uk and click on Chichester Gift Card for more. Chi...
thisischichester
19 likes • 1K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Free General Admission

Enjoy the Roman history and city exhibits without an entry fee! Special exhibits may cost extra. Reddit

🕹️ Retro Arcade Fun

Test your skills on classic 80s games like Donkey Kong for just 50p a play! TikTokReddit

📸 Great Cathedral Views

Head to the second floor for a stunning perspective of Chichester Cathedral. Reddit

🛍️ Gift Card Hub

Pick up Chichester Gift Cards here for local shopping. Instagram

⏳ Check Special Exhibits

The 'I Grew Up 80s' exhibit is a hit, but check for current special exhibitions and their fees. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.5
(873 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise The Novium Museum for its free general admission, offering a great insight into Chichester's Roman history and local heritage, including the fascinating Shippam's brand. The 'I Grew Up 80s' exhibition is a particular hit for its nostalgic appeal and interactive elements, though it incurs an extra cost. Some note the presence of human remains within the historical displays.

"Free entry, lots of bits of Chichester's history (including an extensive display of Shippham's involvement with the city) and an excellent view of the cathedral from the upper floor. What's not to like?"

Paul Everest

"Nice museum to spend an hour. You can see the remains of an old Roman settlement which are well preserved. The I Grew Up in the 80s exhibition was good to see as I was born in this era there was an extra cost of £5.00 to see it but all goes to the museum."

Matt Longville

"On Tower Street near the cathedral, a museum on 3 floors with a gift shop

Free entry

Ground floor: all about the roman era of the Chichester City

1st floor: has the history from BCE to present day with artifafts; the Selsey Tram; history of pride

Warning: human bones

2nd floor: a great view of the cathedral & a special exibition of Shippams"

Jonathan Hinton

What People Like

Free general admission
Roman bath house remains
'I Grew Up 80s' exhibition

What People Dislike

Extra cost for special exhibits

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Novium Museum is centrally located on Tower Street, near Chichester Cathedral. It's easily accessible on foot from the city center and local bus routes. If driving, there are several car parks nearby, though they can get busy. Reddit

Yes, there are several public car parks within a short walking distance of the museum, including the Northgate Car Park and Market Car Park. Be aware that parking fees apply and can vary. Reddit

Chichester has a main bus station and train station, both within a reasonable walking distance of the museum. Many local bus routes also stop close to the city center. Reddit

Absolutely! Chichester is a charming city and The Novium Museum is a great focal point for a day trip. It's easily reachable by train from London, making it a convenient option. Reddit

Combine your museum visit with a walk around the historic city walls, a tour of Chichester Cathedral, and exploring the independent shops on the high street. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

General admission to The Novium Museum is free, allowing you to explore its permanent collections covering Roman history and Chichester's heritage. Reddit

For general admission, booking is usually not required. However, for special temporary exhibitions like 'I Grew Up 80s', it's advisable to check their website or social media for booking information and availability. Reddit

The 'I Grew Up 80s' exhibition typically has an additional admission fee, often around £5.00, with proceeds supporting the museum. Reddit

Opening hours can vary, especially for special events. It's best to check The Novium Museum's official website or social media pages for the most up-to-date opening times before your visit. TikTok

While general admission is free, discounts might apply to special exhibitions for certain groups. Always check the museum's official channels for any available offers or concessions. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The museum features Roman bath house remains, exhibits on Chichester's history from BCE to the present, the Selsey Tram, local art, and special exhibitions like 'I Grew Up 80s' and Shippam's history. TikTokReddit

Yes, the museum offers interactive elements, hands-on activities, and the 'I Grew Up 80s' exhibition has a dressing-up area and retro games, making it engaging for families. TikTokReddit

Yes, one review mentioned the presence of human bones as part of the historical exhibits. Reddit

Photography policies can vary. It's generally permitted for personal use, but flash photography or professional filming may be restricted, especially during special exhibitions. Check for signage or ask staff. Reddit

The 'Magic of Middle-Earth' exhibit was a special exhibition at The Novium Museum, likely inspired by Tolkien's works, appealing to fans of The Hobbit and Lord of the Rings. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The Novium Museum itself does not typically have a cafe. However, Chichester city center offers numerous cafes, restaurants, and pubs for dining options. TikTok

You'll find a variety of eateries just a short walk away in Chichester's city center, ranging from casual cafes to more formal restaurants. TikTok

While there aren't dedicated picnic areas within the museum, you can find pleasant spots in nearby parks or public spaces in Chichester to enjoy a packed lunch. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Capture the Roman bath house remains, the views of Chichester Cathedral from the second floor, and the nostalgic displays from the 'I Grew Up 80s' exhibition. InstagramReddit

Generally, personal photography is allowed for the Roman artifacts, but always check for specific signage or ask museum staff if flash or tripods are permitted. Reddit

The 'I Grew Up 80s' exhibition offers fun selfie opportunities with retro props and backdrops. The view of the cathedral is also a popular spot for photos. TikTokReddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Novium Museum is a fantastic family-friendly destination. General admission is free, making it an accessible outing. The museum offers interactive displays and hands-on activities designed to engage younger visitors. TikTok

Don't miss the 'I Grew Up 80s' exhibition, which features a dressing-up area and retro arcade games (for a small fee), providing hours of entertainment. Special events like Roman Week also offer engaging activities that bring history to life for children. TikTokInstagram

🏛️ History Buffs

For those fascinated by the past, The Novium Museum is a must-visit. Its well-preserved Roman bath house remains offer a direct connection to Chichester's ancient origins. The museum also covers the city's history from BCE to the present day, with a diverse range of artifacts. Reddit

Explore exhibits on local industries like the Shippam's brand, and enjoy the elevated views of Chichester Cathedral. The museum provides a comprehensive overview of the city's rich historical tapestry. InstagramReddit

✨ Nostalgia Seekers

If you have fond memories of the 1980s, the 'I Grew Up 80s' exhibition is an absolute treat. It's packed with iconic memorabilia, music, and fashion that will transport you back in time. TikTokInstagram

Visitors rave about the authentic retro experience, including playable arcade games and opportunities to reminisce about childhood favorites. It's a perfect way to relive cherished memories and share them with others. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Chichester's Roman Heritage

The Novium Museum is built directly over the remains of a Roman bath house, offering a unique opportunity to see these ancient structures in situ. The ground floor is dedicated to Chichester's Roman past, showcasing artifacts and information that bring the era to life. Visitors can learn about daily life, the city's strategic importance, and the impressive engineering of the time. Reddit

This focus on Roman history is a key draw for the museum, providing a tangible connection to the city's origins. The preservation of the bath house is particularly noteworthy, allowing for an immersive understanding of Roman architecture and social customs. It’s a fascinating glimpse into a bygone era, right beneath your feet. Reddit

Nostalgia Overload: The 'I Grew Up 80s' Exhibition

A major highlight for many visitors is the temporary exhibition, 'I Grew Up 80s'. This immersive experience transports guests back to the vibrant decade with displays of iconic toys, vintage arcade games (like Donkey Kong!), cassette tapes, and memorable fashion. It’s a powerful trip down memory lane for anyone who lived through or is fascinated by the 1980s. TikTokInstagramReddit

Visitors often share how the exhibition sparks vivid recollections, from the sights and sounds of the era to the specific items they owned or lusted after. The interactive elements, such as the dress-up box and playable arcade machines, add an extra layer of fun, especially for families looking to share these memories with younger generations. TikTokReddit

While general admission is free, this special exhibition usually comes with an additional fee, which many find well worth the cost for the sheer joy and nostalgia it provides. It's a testament to the enduring appeal of 80s pop culture. Reddit

Local Industries and City Views

The Novium Museum also delves into more recent local history, with a notable exhibition dedicated to Shippam's, a famous Chichester brand that was a leader in the meat and fish paste market for over 200 years. This section offers insight into the industrial heritage of the city and the impact of such businesses on the community. InstagramReddit

Beyond the exhibits, the museum provides a unique vantage point. The second floor offers excellent views of Chichester Cathedral, allowing visitors to appreciate the city's iconic landmark from a different perspective. This combination of local industry history and scenic city views makes for a well-rounded museum experience. Reddit

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