If you're looking for a romantic candlelit experience, want to enjoy some classical music greats then this is the concert for you! London Concertante present a sensational evening at the opera with an array of the finest opera arias and overtures, including works from Puccini, Verdi, Rossini, and Mozart – some of the best from Madame Butterfly, Turandot, Tosca, The Barber of Seville, Carmen, Cosi fan Tutti and so much more. Presented by Candlelight with some of the country’s greatest opera singers in the stunning setting, this truly is an evening not to be missed!

Ascend through nearly 950 years of history, guided by knowledgeable volunteers, to Chichester Cathedrals Lantern. This 45 minute journey includes climbing winding staircases and exploring roof spaces previously closed to the public. Offering breath-taking panoramic views, visitors can see as far as the Isle of Wight, Portsmouth, Goodwood and more. In our 950th anniversary year, the Spire Visits provide a unique opportunity to discover the city and its landscapes from a fresh, elevated perspective.

The Seven Sins of Tango by Candlelight is a brand-new production for 2026, featuring two champion tango dancers accompanied by a 10-piece ensemble from the world-renowned London Concertante. It is straight from Argentina, merging the smouldering music of Astor Piazzolla and his contemporaries with electrifying choreography and virtuosic musicianship, revealing tango in its most authentic yet sophisticated form. Tango showcases Argentinas most iconic dance, combining its sensual elegance with raw intensity and razor-sharp precision. This passionate language is pushed to its very limits, creating an exhilarating spectacle for eyes and ears alike. Accompanying the dancers on stage, the programme features the very best music from tangos golden era, including Piazzollas Suite del Diablo (Suite of the Devil), the haunting Oblivion, and the most famous hit of them all: Libertango. We also hear works by other composers from the bars or Buenos Aires at the time, such as Francisco de Caro, and Jacob Gade. For this exciting project, London Concertante joins forces once again with celebrated pianist and composer David Gordon, whose arrangements and original works breathe fresh life into tangos sensual and fiery soundworld.

Beethoven’s Leonore Overture No.2 is hugely dramatic, mirroring the intensity of the darkest events of the opera it was intended to precede. Derived from music from Act II of Fidelio, it depicts Florestan’s dungeon, to which we are led via dark, descending octaves and dissonant harmonies. Barber’s emotional masterpiece for strings, his Adagio, was adapted from quartet to string orchestra so that this relatively unknown piece was given a second life as the grand commercial success we know today. The American’s hypnotic, solemn piece coupled with his more Romantic Cello Concerto. A piece of great technical demand for soloist and of a grandeur comparable to Brahms. Dvořák broke new ground with his Eighth Symphony. Freed from the confines of the sonata form it is a seemingly spontaneous flow of thematic ideas. It has often been described as a “sunny” work, but in truth it is much more than that. With passages of drama, exhilaration, happiness and nostalgia it is unusually animated and tuneful, though it incorporates a streak of melancholy that occasionally erupts into fury, evoking a wide range of human emotions and is yet profoundly optimistic.

Tango Unchained by Candlelight is a brand-new production for 2026, featuring two champion tango dancers accompanied by a 10-piece ensemble from the world-renowned London Concertante. It is straight from Argentina, merging the smouldering music of Astor Piazzolla and his contemporaries with electrifying choreography and virtuosic musicianship, revealing tango in its most authentic yet sophisticated form. Tango showcases Argentinas most iconic dance, combining its sensual elegance with raw intensity and razor-sharp precision. This passionate language is pushed to its very limits, creating an exhilarating spectacle for eyes and ears alike. Accompanying the dancers on stage, the programme features the very best music from tangos golden era, including Piazzollas Suite del Diablo (Suite of the Devil), the haunting Oblivion, and the most famous hit of them all: Libertango. We also hear works by other composers from the bars or Buenos Aires at the time, such as Francisco de Caro, and Jacob Gade. For this exciting project, London Concertante joins forces once again with celebrated pianist and composer David Gordon, whose arrangements and original works breathe fresh life into tangos sensual and fiery soundworld.

Carlo Collodis classic is a perennial favourite. It is the third most translated book in the world, having appeared in no fewer than 260 languages since it was published in 1883, and has never been out of print. Childless toymaker Geppetto buys a piece of wood to make a puppet little realising the chaos he is about to unleash. The puppet yearns for adventure and runs away, but instead of excitement only finds glorious attractions containing hidden dangers. He returns home hoping to be showered with sympathy and learns his tribulations are just beginning. Running away hasnt worked; lying wont work; he must become a real boy to achieve the belonging he craves. Collodi describes the development from puppet to real boy in the same way that useless green timber is matured into useful well-seasoned wood a transformation only achieved through trials of water and fire. Illyria celebrates this magical coming-of-age tale in a thrilling musical outdoor show.

The Festival of Flowers is a four day spectacular in the setting of Chichesters 950 year old Cathedral, taking place from 3rd 6th June 2026 with a special Preview Evening on 2nd June. Visitors will have the opportunity to experience 66 floral arrangements, handcrafted by talented florists and flower enthusiasts from across the county. The Festival will also see the return of celebrated sculptor Philip Jackson, who will be presenting an exhibition of sculptures exclusively for ticketholders. Whether you are a keen gardener or simply appreciate the beauty of flowers, we are confident that you will find something to inspire and delight you. Shop, Eat & Explore Visitors can browse through an exclusive range of stalls within the on-site Market, nestled in the Cathedrals 600 year-old Cloisters. The Market offers unique products from a range of Sussex-based suppliers and businesses - from handcrafted floral arrangements, items for house and home, to local wine and produce. It's a perfect opportunity to find that special gift or memento of your visit. The delightful Cloisters Kitchen & Garden offers a broad selection of teas, coffees, cakes and light lunches with the tranquil Garden setting providing a serene atmosphere to enjoy a leisurely afternoon tea or simply unwind amidst the natural beauty of the Cathedral's surroundings. Those travelling from further afield may want to conclude their visit by exploring the historic city of Chichester, from theRoman city wallsand tranquil green spaces to a mix of independent shops and eateries, as well as big High Street names - all a short distance from the Cathedral.

Spain's Siglo de Oro, the Age of Gold, gave rise to some of the greatest sacred choral music of the Renaissance. The majestic music of the Spanish Renaissance will be the theme of our 2026 Choral Pilgrimage programme, 'Lead, kindly light.' This year's series features works from Cristóbal de Morales and Sebastián de Vivánco. Our programme also features spellbinding settings of words by Saint John Henry Newman: Sir James MacMillan's Nothing in Vain and the world premiere of Kerensa Briggs' Lead, kindly light, specially commissioned for the Choral Pilgrimage.

Tango Unchained by Candlelight is the powerful and exciting new show for 2026, bringing the smouldering soundworld of Argentine tango vividly to life. Performed by a 12-piece ensemble from the world-renowned London Concertante, the programme brings the art of tango to life in all its raw, unbridled intensity, with fresh colours from Buenos Aires filling the space with sound. The concert unfolds across seven musical chapters, each inspired by one of the deadly sins: Lust, Gluttony, Greed, Sloth, Wrath, Envy, and Pride. Together, they form a compelling narrative arc that explores the dark origins, passion, rebellion, and irresistible allure at the heart of tango. The programme features iconic works by Astor Piazzolla ( Suite del Diablo - Suite of the Devil), Francisco de Caro ( Orgullo Criollo - Creole Pride ), and Jacob Gade ( Jalousie - Jealousy), with new arrangements by celebrated pianist and composer David Gordon, breathing fresh life into tango's sensual and fiery soundworld. Enhancing the music, two champion tango dancers appear on stage at key moments, bringing selected pieces to life through expressive choreography that reflects the emotional intensity of the score.

Step back in time and explore the only surviving medieval detached bell tower of any English cathedral. Chichester Cathedrals Bell Tower, built in the 1400s, has stood as a remarkable testament to the city's rich history and architectural heritage - housing an impressive ring of eight bells, a fixed hour bell, and a historic clock that still marks the passage of time. Join us for a special Bell Tower Open Day and experience a rare insight into this Grade I listed building. You will be taken through the fascinating history of the tower, from the earliest recorded bell ringing in 1232 to the magnificent 16th-century bells that still chime today. Youll also learn about the intricate art of bell ringing from our dedicated band of ringers. What to expect on the Tour A guided exploration of the Bell Tower, including its medieval architecture and historical significance. A climb up the spiral staircase to the ringing chamber, where youll witness the skill and dedication of the Cathedrals bell ringers. See a demonstration of the bells being rung with a video showing the actual bells Hear a short presentation of the history of bell ringing. There will be a static display in the base of the tower which gives more insight into the history off bellringing. Dont miss this rare opportunity to visit a truly unique part of Englands heritage. Tours are available on three dates: Saturday 11 April, Saturday 15 August, and Saturday 10 October. Each tour lasts approximately 30 minutes, with four sessions running from 2.00pm to 4.30pm. Tickets are priced at 15.00 per adult and 10.00 per child. Important information Please arrive 10 minutes before the tour time: a health & safety briefing precedes the tour. If you arrive late, you will not be permitted to join the tour. Photography of the tour is permitted at points. Your guide will indicate these locations. Tripods are not permitted on the tour. Tours may be cancelled due to safeguarding or safety concerns from Cathedral Guides, or high winds and inclement weather. Refunds will be processed in case of cancellation. Please note that there are limited places to sit throughout the tour. Please note tours are in English only. Please note there is no wheelchair access to the Tower. Dogs are not permitted on this tour. Food and drink is not permitted on the tour. Suitable footwear, with good grip, must be worn. Small, cross body bags are permitted. We are not able to store personal items, larger bags or luggage on site.

Gather to celebrate the most wonderful time of the year as G4 bring glad tidings of great joy this festive season, with the return of their ‘G4 Christmas’ tour in the most awe-inspiring cathedrals, priories, minsters, halls and abbeys across the UK. Step into G4's world of vocal enchantment, as they take you on a breathtaking musical journey with beautifully-blended voices, within an idyllic sacred setting. Ignite your Christmas spirit with a sprinkling of G4’s yuletide magic. Nourish your soul with their extraordinary and unique renditions of traditional carols, sacred contemplations, classical favourites and modern festive hits including Silent Night, O Holy Night, All I Want for Christmas, Walking in the Air, When a Child is Born and The 12 Days of Christmas. With mesmerising harmonies and impeccable showmanship it’s no wonder this hotly-anticipated tour sells out year after year, where the guys leave you with chills of delight and a heart full of Christmas cheer. After the show you’ll dash, dance and prance your holly jolly way all the way home, having no doubt experienced something more precious than gold, frankincense and myrrh!

Discover the stories hidden within Chichester Cathedrals historic library through our Tuesday morning workshop series, Tales from the Cathedral Library. Each session offers a chance to explore fascinating manuscripts, rare books, and other treasures, and to discuss their significance for the Church - both then and today. Step behind the scenes of one of Chichesters most remarkable spaces and learn about the Cathedral Librarys treasures in a welcoming, intimate setting - where every item has a story to tell - led by Cathedral Sub-Librarian Dr Andrew Foster and Canon Chancellor, the Rev'd Dr Earl Collins. Held in the Dresden Room, George Bell House, sessions last approximately one and a half hours and conclude with coffee, conversation, and a moment to reflect on the mornings discoveries. 16 June: Why do we have Roman Catholic works in our cathedral library? After 1570 it would have been illegal to hold Roman Catholic books in your home, yet cathedral and university college libraries obtained such books to engage in controversies and for many scholars Catholic works were well respected. What books are we talking about with regard to Chichester?

Discover the stories hidden within Chichester Cathedrals historic library through our Tuesday morning workshop series, Tales from the Cathedral Library. Each session offers a chance to explore fascinating manuscripts, rare books, and other treasures, and to discuss their significance for the Church - both then and today. Step behind the scenes of one of Chichesters most remarkable spaces and learn about the Cathedral Librarys treasures in a welcoming, intimate setting - where every item has a story to tell - led by Cathedral Sub-Librarian Dr Andrew Foster and Canon Chancellor, the Rev'd Dr Earl Collins. Held in the Dresden Room, George Bell House, sessions last approximately one and a half hours and conclude with coffee, conversation, and a moment to reflect on the mornings discoveries. 21 April: When, how, and by whom was the Church of England established? Not as easy as it might seem: are we thinking of the original break with Rome under Henry VIII, the Elizabethan Settlement of 1559-62, or some later date? And what roles do we assign to Archbishops Cranmer, Parker and Whitgift? What about life for the humble clergy and their parishioners?

Discover the stories hidden within Chichester Cathedrals historic library through our Tuesday morning workshop series, Tales from the Cathedral Library. Each session offers a chance to explore fascinating manuscripts, rare books, and other treasures, and to discuss their significance for the Church - both then and today. Step behind the scenes of one of Chichesters most remarkable spaces and learn about the Cathedral Librarys treasures in a welcoming, intimate setting - where every item has a story to tell - led by Cathedral Sub-Librarian Dr Andrew Foster and Canon Chancellor, the Rev'd Dr Earl Collins. Held in the Dresden Room, George Bell House, sessions last approximately one and a half hours and conclude with coffee, conversation, and a moment to reflect on the mornings discoveries. 8 Sept: Why does Matthew Parker deserve our sympathy and praise? Matthew Parker was Queen Elizabeths first Archbishop of Canterbury between 1559 and 1575, yet his reputation is mixed and his work only recently coming to be appreciated. Was he a scholar out of his depth or a canny archbishop who dealt well with the hand he was forced to play?

Discover the stories hidden within Chichester Cathedrals historic library through our Tuesday morning workshop series, Tales from the Cathedral Library. Each session offers a chance to explore fascinating manuscripts, rare books, and other treasures, and to discuss their significance for the Church - both then and today. Step behind the scenes of one of Chichesters most remarkable spaces and learn about the Cathedral Librarys treasures in a welcoming, intimate setting - where every item has a story to tell - led by Cathedral Sub-Librarian Dr Andrew Foster and Canon Chancellor, the Rev'd Dr Earl Collins. Held in the Dresden Room, George Bell House, sessions last approximately one and a half hours and conclude with coffee, conversation, and a moment to reflect on the mornings discoveries. 10 Nov: Lancelot Andrewes: famous for sermons and liturgy, but over-rated? Another celebrated Bishop of Chichester (1605-09), associated with the great King James Bible of 1611, famous for his preaching yet also as the spiritual leader of those who called for the beauty of holiness in worship. What should we make of him now?

In this autumn retreat at George Bell House, largely spent in silence, we invite participants to step out of the intensity of their life and to come on a contemplative journey with Thomas Merton using the bible, his writings and his photography as our guide. This retreat will include an introduction to the life of Merton and his writings, how Merton used photography as a tool for contemplation, as well as time to explore a small collection of his photographs as an aid to contemplation. Weather permitting there will also be the opportunity to spend some time in the Bishops Place Gardens on a contemplative walk using your camera or mobile phone if you wish. The retreat will be guided by Earl Collins, the Canon Chancellor andJohn Workman, an art history postgraduate researcher and member of the Cathedral congregation. There are opportunities for individual spiritual conversation with Earl Collins alongside the sessions.

Join artist Alice Carter for a guided exploration of Ashes to Fire. Discover how modern religious art fits into a broader art historical narrative and gain behind-the-scenes insight into Carters creative process and the seven paintings responding to John Pipers 1966 Tapestry.

Explore the Cathedrals rich textile heritage, celebrating the 60th anniversary of the Piper Tapestry. Beyond this landmark work, fibre art is everywhere throughout the building, from Victorian embroideries to contemporary fibre art.

The Cathedral is home to a significant collection of art, designed to inspire and challenge visitors. Medieval wall paintings and sculpture reliefs sit alongside Victorian glass work and contemporary art, all helping to enrich and beautify the Cathedral.

ASHES TO FIRE is a series of seven large-scale oil paintings, offering meditation on key moments in the Easter cycle. From the solemnity of Ash Wednesday to the blazing energy of Pentecost, her carefully considered compositions trace the emotional arc of the Easter story. Through bold colour, layered symbolism, and moments of quiet intensity, Carter reflects on themes of grief, hope, and transformation, capturing the journey from ashes to fire in a contemporary visual language.

In 1966, Chichester Cathedral unveiled one of Britain's most daring post-war art commissions: a vivid tapestry by the celebrated artist and printmaker John Piper (1903–1992). In honour of this groundbreaking work, Chichester Cathedral will be hosting a new exhibition running from Friday 13 February to Sunday 15 November 2026. Glowing + Alive reveals the story behind the tapestry's creation, exploring the people and patrons who shaped the commission and examining its lasting impact on the life of the Cathedral. Alongside the exhibition, an exciting programme of events, talks and tours will engage audiences of all ages.  A complementary exhibition of new work by contemporary artist Alice Carter, Ashes To Fire (13 February – 5 April 2026), will further enrich the programme, creating a striking dialogue with Piper's masterpiece. Entry to Chichester Cathedral and the exhibition is free, though donations are welcome.

Join The Lord Chamberlain's Men this summer for Othello, one of the most captivating and thrilling plays ever written. See it performed how William Shakespeare first saw it, as The Lord Chamberlain's Men (with a history stretching back to Shakespeare's original company) present this play in the open air, with an all male cast and Elizabethan costumes, music and dance. I know my price, I am worth no worse a place. Othello, the Moor of Venice, a respected General in the Venetian army, promotes the young Cassio to be his Lieutenant over Iago, a soldier in his service. In doing so he unwittingly sparks Iago's deep-seated hatred into terrifying life and sets in motion a horrendous spiral of vengeance and destruction that sweeps away everyone before it. As Iago weaves his web and seeks his revenge, he poisons Othello against Desdemona, who he has recently and secretly married, and turns the world upside down until Othello becomes unmoored from reality with devastating consequences. Put out the light, and then put out the light. A powerful story of deception, jealousy, and a man that loved not wisely but too well - this stunning and heartbreakingly poignant play is one you won't want to miss. Bring a chair and a picnic and prepare to be rapt and transported. Book early to avoid missing out!

Encouraging slow contemplation of art, the session will be guided by John Workman, an art history postgraduate researcher and member of the Cathedral congregation. This annual, international event is to encourage participants to engage with individual works of art. Participants will view five artworks in the Cathedral, including John Pipers 1966 Tapestry. then will take part in a guided discussion, discovering more about the artworks and how they work in the sacred space of the Cathedral.

On Wednesday 13th June, and with the kind permission of Bishop Martin, we are delighted to invite Friends to join a guided Tour of the Bishops Palace. Contained within the Palace lies a twelfth century chapel that has remained in use, and mostly unaltered, over the last 800 years. The substantial repairs afforded the Palace over the centuries has clouded the exact date of its creation, but it is known that the Palace was rebuilt by Bishop Seffrid following the fire that devastated the Cathedral and the town in 1187.The tour will commence at 10.00am and participants should foregather outside the West Door of the Cathedral. Tickets, at 12, include a donation to the Palace.

Our precious concert in a 19th century church in the heart of the Royal Borough of Kensington. Experience the majestic music of the iconic saga «Lord of the Rings» films in a unique experience not to be missed. A delight for the whole family is guaranteed. Performed by the modern orchestra Mystery Ensemble, the virtuoso playing of the musicians will instantly transport you to a distant fantasy world with elves, hobbits and dwarves! Music loved by millions of people gives you goosebumps.

Chichester Cathedral Friends are pleased to present "Book after Breakfast". Tea and coffee, and biscuits, will be served at 10am followed by an informal talk by The Reverend Bruce Ruddock on the book "Nesting" by Roisin O'Donnell. One mothers fight to build a safe home. On a spring afternoon in Dublin, Ciara Fay grabs her daughters and drives away from a dangerous home. Facing coercive control and a broken housing system, she battles to build a safe life for her family in this tense, compassionate Irish debut. A powerful tale of survival; a love letter to motherhood and bravery. Please support our local independent bookshops.

Step into one of Britains most daring and colourful post-war artworks! In 1966, Chichester Cathedral unveiled a vivid tapestry by the celebrated artist John Piper (19031992). Commissioned by Dean Walter Hussey, it remains one of the most significant ecclesiastical artworks of the twentieth century. Its bold colours, dramatic scenes, and rich Christian symbolism continue to inspire awe and reflection today. For the first time, you can explore this masterpiece up close in a full-day workshop (10am-2.30pm) that links RE, history, and art in one inspiring experience. The day includes: Exploration: Discover the stories and Christian symbols woven into the tapestry and learn about the historical and cultural context behind this iconic work. You will also have an opportunity to explore our new exhibition GLOWING + ALIVE. Creative Session 1: Draw and paint your own version of the Piper tapestry, experimenting with colour, pattern, symbols, and storytelling. Creative Session 2: Try a simple weaving project inspired by Pipers tapestry, exploring texture, design, and artistic expression.

Join us on Chichester's Cathedral Green on Sunday 14 June (11.00-4.00pm) for SussexFest - a free community celebration marking Sussex Day and everything that makes our city and county so special. Open to all ages, this joyful gathering brings together the very best of Chichester and Sussex for a day of family entertainment, discovery and community pride. SussexFest is an open invitation to come together and celebrate Chichester - with free admission to all activities (excluding food vendors) and no booking required, It's a chance to discover the stories, creativity and communities that make Chichester and Sussex such special places to live, visit and enjoy. Throughout the day, visitors can get hands-on with free arts and crafts, explore heritage activities, and join in with creative sessions inspired by local stories and traditions. A full programme of activities led by museums, galleries, charities and community groups will be announced soon. Children can also enjoy free face-painting, drop‑in workshops and plenty of opportunities to make, try and play. Expect an uplifting mix of live performances from local community choirs, dance groups and community artists, creating a vibrant atmosphere at the heart of the city. A detailed line‑up will be shared in the coming weeks. A selection of local food and drink vendors will be joining us on the Green, offering something for all tastes – perfect for families, friends and those looking to relax with a bite to eat in the summer sunshine. You're also welcome to bring a picnic blanket and settle in for the day.