District Dispatch - 20 May 2025

Running until Tuesday 3 June, the project is a collaboration between Chichester and District Archaeology Society and Chichester District Council, with the council's own archaeologist, James Kenny, leading the project.

The team's work over the past few years has been vital in helping improve our understanding of the rich history that lies beneath the park. In 2024, they uncovered the remains of a masonry causeway and bridge that would have led to the castle. This year's work is focussed on further investigating the bridge abutment and the motte ditch to its east.

As the dig progresses, James and the team will have a tray of finds that people will be able to view and handle. Members of the public are welcome to come along and watch the archaeology in action and there will also be a special public day on Saturday 31 May, where people will have the opportunity to hear about the team's discoveries. James will give a series of talks during the public day — these are scheduled to take place at 10am, 12 noon and 3pm. For more information, visit our recent article on the archaeological dig in Priory Park. To learn more about the Chichester and District Archaeology Society, visit the Chichester and District Archaeology Society website (opens new window).

Moving into the school half term holidays, we're looking forward to the return of Chichester Roman Week! Taking place between Monday 26 May and Saturday 31 May, the event invites families, history lovers and curious minds to step back in time and explore Chichester's rich Roman heritage, led by The Novium Museum. Expect district-wide events offering the chance to uncover the secrets of the city's ancient past with a week of hands-on activities, epic storytelling and live action thrills.

The highlight of the week is the return of the unmissable live Roman re-enactment in Priory Park on Thursday 29 May. Back by popular demand after a year's break, Legio Secunda Augusta — one of Europe's top Roman re-enactment groups — will transform the park with the sights and sounds of ancient Rome. Prepare for thrilling gladiator battles, military drills, and an authentic Roman army camp. Entry is free. Alongside this, a diverse range of events and activities will take place throughout the week. The full programme is available The Novium Museum's 'Roman Week' page (opens new window).

With Chichester Pride returning to the city on Saturday 24 May, I wanted to remind you about our fantastic 'Out & Proud in Chichester' exhibition at The Novium Museum. Created in collaboration with Chichester Pride, this free exhibition celebrates the rich tapestry of LGBTQ+ history, with a special focus on the personal experiences of individuals within the Chichester community. You can find more information on The Novium Museum's 'Out and Proud' exhibition page (opens new window). 

While you're visiting the museum, why not pop into the 'I Grew Up 80s' exhibition before it closes on 8 June! 'I Grew Up 80s' captures what life was like from a child's perspective when music was on cassettes, shell suits and leg warmers were must-haves, and everyone received a Rubik's Cube for Christmas! Not only does it provide a nostalgic trip down memory lane for many, but it also provides an insight for younger visitors to see the differences between then and now. Plan your visit and book your tickets — £5 for adults, £3 for children or £14 for a family of up to five (maximum 2 adults) — at The Novium Museum 'I Grew Up 80s' page (opens new window).

With so many events on the horizon, make sure you sign up to our monthly email newsletter for the latest updates and visit our online What's On events calendar: www.chichester.gov.uk/whatson 

Whatever your plans for the next few weeks, I hope you have a wonderful time!

Best Wishes

Cllr John Cross

Cabinet Member for Culture, Sport and Place at Chichester District Council