The Guildhall within the park was originally the chancel of a Greyfriars church built around 1282.
After the Dissolution of the Monasteries in the 16th century, the site was converted into a courthouse and town hall.
The park contains a prominent earthwork motte, the remains of Chichester's 11th-century Norman castle.
The poet William Blake was tried for sedition in the Guildhall in 1804.
During the 18th century, the site was privately owned by the Lennox family, the Dukes of Richmond, before being gifted to the city.
Priory Park is a historic public park situated within the ancient Roman city walls of Chichester, encompassing approximately 3.5 hectares. The park is dominated by the Guildhall, a 13th-century former Franciscan friary church that is now a Grade I listed building. The site features extensive flat grass lawns, a cricket pitch, and a children's play area. It serves as a green buffer between the northern edge of the city center and the residential districts. The park grounds include the remnants of a Norman motte, a mound dating back to the 11th century. Tall, mature trees frame the perimeter, providing natural windbreaks and shade. It is maintained by the Chichester District Council and serves as a venue for local community events and sports. The layout preserves a significant portion of the city's medieval fortification line.
From the base of the Norman motte looking back toward the stone facade of the medieval Guildhall.
Bring a picnic blanket, as the large central lawns are the primary seating area.
Check the Chichester District Council website for local event notices, as the park occasionally hosts small outdoor festivals.
Combine your visit with a walk along the remaining sections of the Roman city walls, which are accessible from the park perimeter.
Do not assume the Guildhall is open to the public without a booking, as access is often restricted to guided tours or specific event dates.
The park is generally open daily; however, the historic Guildhall building has limited seasonal access and is often closed during winter months.
Public park rules apply: no barbecues, keep dogs under control, and respect the historic nature of the Guildhall building.
