Nestled between the South Downs and the Sussex coast, Chichester is one of those towns that feels effortlessly charming. Cobbled streets, independent shops where you could spend a small fortune, and a laid-back café culture make it a joy to explore. And the best bit? It’s brilliantly dog-friendly.

If you’re looking for a day that ticks all the boxes – good food, scenic walks, and plenty of woof-approved activities – Chichester is a tough one to beat. From dog-friendly cafés and pubs to vineyards, historic sites, and peaceful walking routes, here’s how to spend a full day soaking up the best of this Insta-worthy city with your four-legged friend.

Just don’t forget the poo bags. Even the Romans would have drawn the line somewhere.

Top-class places to eat

Tucked just outside Chichester and set within a working farm, Wellies Tearoom is the kind of place where you struggle to order thanks to the incredible menu. Think homemade cakes, hearty breakfasts, and tempting lunchtime treats. There’s also a dog-friendly garden that’s ideal for lazy brunches when the weather allows. The staff are known locally for their friendliness, and often come armed with treats for visiting pups, so that nobody feels left out when the food arrives.

If you fancy something in the heart of town, Bill’s Chichester is a great shout. Yes, they’re a chain, but their food is great and there’s something to suit everyone. The menu covers everything from fluffy pancakes and fresh brunch bowls to hearty burgers and seasonal specials. And their coffee is decent to boot! They welcome dogs in their outdoor seating area, which is perfect for people-watching on a sunny day, soaking up the buzz of the city, or pretending you’re both on holiday. The staff are lovely with dogs too; water bowls appear without you asking, and there’s usually a friendly pat or two for your pup.

A short drive from the city centre, The Barn is a cosy countryside pub that’s as welcoming to dogs as it is to humans. With its rustic wooden beams, roaring fire in winter, and spacious garden for sunnier days, it strikes that perfect balance between comfort and charm. The menu is full of crowd-pleasers; generous Sunday roasts, stone-baked pizzas, and proper pub classics, all of which are cooked with local ingredients and a bit of flair. Dogs are welcome in the bar area, where the staff tend to greet them like old friends. If your pup’s been on their best behaviour, there’s even the odd biscuit going. It’s the ideal spot to refuel after a long walk, or to while away a lazy afternoon with good food and good company.

Things to do

Even if you’re not big on visiting churches and the like, Chichester Cathedral is worth a wander. This beautiful 900-year-old building dominates the city skyline, with its soaring spire and peaceful gardens offering a welcome escape from the bustle. Dogs are welcome in the cloisters and surrounding green spaces, making it a great spot for a quiet pause between more energetic activities, or a chance to practise your “sit-stay” in front of some very photogenic backdrops. The cathedral grounds often host outdoor art installations and events, so you might catch something unexpected. It’s also a lovely place to sit with a takeaway coffee and just soak up the calm, and is ideal for dogs who prefer sniffing flowers to chasing squirrels.

*Chichester Cathedral / Evgeniy Podkopaev*

This one’s a treat for history lovers. Fishbourne Roman Palace is the largest Roman home ever discovered in Britain, complete with beautifully preserved mosaics that date back to the first century AD. You can explore the formal gardens, wander the grounds with your dog, and even stop for a cuppa at the on-site café, where dogs are welcome in the outdoor area. The mix of history, greenery, and open space makes it a surprisingly relaxed place to visit; more “Sunday stroll” than school trip.

Wine and dogs: two of life’s best things. Just a short hop from the city centre, Tinwood Estate is where wine lovers and dog owners find common ground. Set against the backdrop of the South Downs, the estate produces award-winning English sparkling wine and offers tastings and tours against the beautiful backdrop of the Downs. Well-behaved dogs are welcome in the outdoor areas, so you can sip your bubbles while your pup snoozes under the table or takes in the view. The setting is open and peaceful, with plenty of photo-worthy spots (and we all know whose picture ends up getting the most likes). If you’re feeling indulgent, you can even book one of their luxury lodges for an overnight stay, because why shouldn’t your dog experience vineyard life too?

Some fantastic walks

The Chichester Canal Walk is perfect for a slow, scenic wander, especially if your dog prefers a good sniff to a high-speed hike. The flat towpath runs from the Chichester Basin right out to the marina, with calm waters on one side and leafy countryside on the other. As you pass dog walkers, cyclists, and the odd narrowboat chugging along, it’s hard not to feel your shoulders relaxing as you go. Keep an eye out for swans and ducks (a potential distraction for more excitable pups), and reward yourself with a coffee or slice of cake at the Canal Café before heading back. It’s the kind of walk that’s just as lovely in winter as it is in summer, muddy paws and all.

If you fancy stretching your legs a bit further, the Chichester to Bosham Walk is a brilliant option. It takes you through peaceful countryside and along quiet lanes, eventually leading to the picturesque coastal village of Bosham, one of the prettiest spots in West Sussex. The route is around five miles each way, so it’s perfect for energetic dogs (and owners who don’t mind earning their lunch). Bosham itself is postcard-beautiful, with colourful cottages, bobbing boats, and a waterfront that disappears completely at high tide, so check tide times unless you fancy a paddle back.

For something shorter and more urban, the Chichester City Walls Walk is a great little route right in the heart of the city. It follows the ancient Roman walls that still frame the old town, offering a surprisingly peaceful perspective above the streets. The full loop takes about 30-40 minutes, depending on how often your dog stops to inspect a lamppost or two. Passing gardens, old gates, and stealing glimpses of the cathedral spire, it’s a lovely way to see the city’s historic side without ever straying too far from a good coffee shop. Perfect for a pre-brunch stroll or a gentle end to a busy day exploring.