Pallant House Gallery
A world-class collection of Modern British Art housed in a stunning fusion of Georgian elegance and contemporary design.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful viewing
Pallant House Gallery
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful viewing
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A world-class collection of Modern British Art housed in a stunning fusion of Georgian elegance and contemporary design.
"A fantastic, light and airy building with something to see for everyone."
☕ Enjoy the Courtyard Cafe
The cafe offers delicious treats and a lovely spot to relax, with indoor and outdoor seating options.
📚 Browse the Amazing Bookshop
Don't miss the extensive bookshop, filled floor-to-ceiling with art books and publications.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Modern British Art Collection
Georgian Townhouse
Discover a world-class collection of 20th-century British art, featuring iconic pieces in a serene, historic setting.
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Rana Begum: No. 1367 Mesh
Staircase Installation
Marvel at the captivating, site-specific installation of galvanized steel clouds that ascend through the gallery's staircase.
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Maggi Hambling: Nightingale Night
Exhibition Space
Experience the powerful and evocative works of Maggi Hambling in this special exhibition, offering a contemporary connection within the historic house.
Chagall Stained Glass Window
Chichester Cathedral (nearby)
While not within the gallery itself, the vibrant Chagall stained glass window at Chichester Cathedral is a must-see nearby, showcasing the city's artistic heritage.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Ahead for Special Exhibitions
Explore Chichester's Charm
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
☕ Enjoy the Courtyard Cafe
The cafe offers delicious treats and a lovely spot to relax, with indoor and outdoor seating options.
📚 Browse the Amazing Bookshop
Don't miss the extensive bookshop, filled floor-to-ceiling with art books and publications.
🚶♀️ Wander Chichester's Streets
Combine your gallery visit with exploring the beautiful, historic streets of Chichester.
💡 Free Guided Tours
Take advantage of free guided tours to gain deeper insights into the collections and exhibitions.
Tips
from all over the internet
☕ Enjoy the Courtyard Cafe
The cafe offers delicious treats and a lovely spot to relax, with indoor and outdoor seating options.
📚 Browse the Amazing Bookshop
Don't miss the extensive bookshop, filled floor-to-ceiling with art books and publications.
🚶♀️ Wander Chichester's Streets
Combine your gallery visit with exploring the beautiful, historic streets of Chichester.
💡 Free Guided Tours
Take advantage of free guided tours to gain deeper insights into the collections and exhibitions.
🎨 Sketching Opportunities
Some visitors have enjoyed opportunities to sketch and create their own art inspired by the gallery.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Pallant House Gallery for its exceptional collection of Modern British Art, beautifully displayed within a unique blend of historic and contemporary architecture. The natural light, peaceful atmosphere, and helpful staff contribute to a highly enjoyable experience, further enhanced by a delightful cafe and an impressive bookshop. While some find the entry fee a bit steep for the Georgian house's interiors, the overall quality of the art and the curated exhibitions make it a highly recommended destination.
"Pallant House Gallery was fantastic. The natural light really brought out the textures of the artworks and the quiet part of Chichester made the visit even more special. I enjoyed walking through the beautiful streets of Chichester city before and after the gallery. The special exhibition was brilliant and I was so absorbed in everything that I forgot to take pictures. Afterward, we enjoyed tea and cake at the lovely café with the option to sit inside or outside. A wonderful place for families."
Tshepiso Mokoena
"Excellent mid sized gallery specialising in British 20th-century art, alongside some contemporary work. The permanent collection is displayed in a Georgian townhouse which has a very peaceful atmosphere. I found the staff to be lovely and helpful. Some very strong and recognisable works here."
Liance
"Fantastic, light and airy building with something to see for everyone. The natural light really made texture and fine detail come to life. Staff were very helpful and friendly. The cafe was exceptional and it was a beautiful day to sit outside in the courtyard. I came to see the Maggi Hambling Nightingale exhibition, breathtaking. The John Piper paintings in the museum collection were such a bonus for me. Also worth saying what an amazing bookshop they had, so many books floor to ceiling."
Andy n Elly Drew
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Pallant House Gallery is located in the heart of Chichester. It's easily accessible by train from London Victoria (approx. 1.5 hours).
Yes, the gallery is centrally located within Chichester, making it easy to combine with exploring the city's historic streets and other attractions.
Yes, there are several centrally located hotels in Chichester. The Vestry is mentioned as a potential option for a short break.
Absolutely! Chichester is a popular day trip destination from London, with direct train services making it a convenient option to visit Pallant House Gallery and explore the city.
Chichester is a very walkable city, and Pallant House Gallery is centrally located. Exploring on foot is the best way to discover its charm.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Pallant House Gallery typically opens from Tuesday to Saturday, with specific hours that can vary. It's always best to check their official website for the most up-to-date opening times before your visit.
Admission prices can vary, especially for special exhibitions. While some reviews mention a £17 entry charge, it's advisable to check the official website for current ticket prices and any concessions.
Yes, booking tickets online in advance is highly recommended, especially for special exhibitions, to guarantee your entry and avoid potential disappointment.
While general admission may have a fee, it's worth checking for any specific days or times that might offer free entry or if you qualify for concessions.
Yes, Pallant House Gallery is considered a wonderful place for families, with some visitors noting opportunities for sketching and engaging with the art.
🎫 🖼️ Onsite Experience
The gallery boasts an excellent collection of British 20th-century art, alongside contemporary works. It's known for its high-quality display of modern British art.
Pallant House Gallery is a unique blend of a Grade I listed 18th-century Georgian townhouse and a modern, award-winning 21st-century extension, creating a distinctive visitor experience.
Yes, Pallant House Gallery regularly hosts special exhibitions featuring renowned artists like Maggi Hambling and Rana Begum, offering unique viewing opportunities.
Many visitors praise the natural light within the gallery, noting how it enhances the textures and fine details of the artworks, making the viewing experience exceptional.
The gallery offers a fantastic cafe, an extensive bookshop, and studio resources for creative activities.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, Pallant House Gallery has an exceptional cafe that offers tea, cake, and other refreshments. It's a great place to relax after exploring the art.
The cafe at Pallant House Gallery provides the option to sit outside in the courtyard, which is particularly pleasant on a beautiful day.
Chichester offers a variety of dining options, from casual cafes to restaurants. The Barn Little London is mentioned as a delicious lunch spot.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography policies can vary, especially for special exhibitions. It's best to check the gallery's guidelines upon arrival or on their website. Some visitors noted forgetting to take pictures due to being absorbed in the art.
The Rana Begum installation on the staircase offers a visually striking element for photos. The historic Georgian townhouse itself and the surrounding streets of Chichester also provide beautiful photographic opportunities.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The cafe also offers a pleasant spot for a family break. Consider checking for any family-specific events or activities that might be running during your visit.🎨 Art Enthusiasts & Collectors
+1 The gallery's commitment to high-quality temporary exhibitions ensures there's always something new and exciting to discover, making it a regular pilgrimage for serious art lovers. The unique blend of historic architecture and contemporary display enhances the viewing experience. 🏛️ History Buffs & Architecture Admirers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Art Collection: Modern British Masters
+1The curation often highlights thematic connections and artistic dialogues, allowing visitors to explore the evolution of British art through a carefully selected lens. The natural light within the gallery is frequently praised for its ability to enhance the textures and details of the artworks, making each piece come alive.
Beyond the permanent collection, Pallant House Gallery consistently hosts compelling temporary exhibitions that bring new perspectives and contemporary voices to the forefront. These exhibitions, featuring artists like Rana Begum and Maggi Hambling, ensure that the gallery remains a dynamic and relevant cultural hub.
+1Architectural Fusion: Georgian Charm Meets Contemporary Design
+1 This fusion creates a dynamic spatial experience, where the historic character of the original building provides a serene backdrop for the modern art collection, while the contemporary wing offers light-filled, flexible exhibition spaces.The Georgian townhouse, considered one of the finest in Chichester, retains much of its original charm, offering visitors a glimpse into the past. However, some reviews note that the Georgian house itself is 'virtually empty except for the artwork,' suggesting a focus on the art rather than the historical interiors.
The modern extension, designed to complement the historic structure, provides ample space for larger installations and temporary exhibitions. It's this thoughtful integration of old and new that makes Pallant House Gallery not just a repository of art, but a significant architectural destination in its own right.
Community and Creativity: Beyond the Walls
+1Programs like 'Share Art' offer opportunities for community members to engage with art and artists directly, as seen in the talk by an artist about their work.
The gallery also collaborates with institutions like the University of Chichester, providing platforms for emerging talent and educational outreach. Furthermore, Pallant House Gallery's commitment to nurturing creativity extends to offering resources for visitors to engage in their own artistic endeavors, with some visitors recalling opportunities to sketch and use studio resources.
This focus on participatory art and community involvement makes Pallant House Gallery a vibrant and inclusive cultural destination. 
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