The Novium Museum

The Novium Museum is built over the exposed archaeological remains of Chichester's Roman bath house. The museum has fascinating exhibitions, and is Chichester District's award-winning museum.

The museum is located on Tower Street, which is in the centre of Chichester City. The museum tells the stories of Chichester District and its rich heritage. It holds more than 500,000 artifacts, both on display and in its store.

General admission is free, with donations gratefully accepted.

The Novium Museum (opens new window)

What's in the museum

As you enter the museum, you're invited to step back in time to discover Chichester's rich Roman heritage. The museum's Roman Chichester Gallery features the stunning Chilgrove mosaic.

The first floor takes you through a timeline of Chichester District. This floor features the famous Mystery Warrior - The North Bersted Man. Archaeologists believe the Mystery Warrior was a refugee French Gallic fighter. This fighter is believed to have fled Julius Caesar's Roman Army as they swept across continental Europe around 50BC.

The museum's top floor hosts an exciting range of touring and temporary exhibitions. It also offers a spectacular view of Chichester Cathedral and Bell Tower.

Museum gift shop

The Novium Museum's gift shop (opens new window) offers a range of merchandise including:

• souvenirs,
• books,
• prints,
• toys; and
• local produce

Every purchase helps to support the museum service. Browse in store or our online Novium museum shop.

Learning programme

The Novium Museum runs an award-winning learning programme (opens new window). This programme offers an immersive learning experience. The programme includes:

• engaging workshops,
• outreach visits,
• sleepovers,
• loan boxes; and,
• virtual field trips

Museum events

The museum hosts an exciting programme of events throughout the year. (opens new window) This includes the award-winning Chichester Roman Week every May half term.

Guildhall weddings

As well as the main museum building, The Novium Museum also runs The Guildhall. The Guildhall is situated in the beautiful grounds of Priory Park.

During its 800 year history, the Grade 1 Listed building has undergone various reincarnations. Its origins started as a Franciscan Friary, then to a venue where politicians were elected. The Guildhall is licensed for weddings (opens new window) and hosts a variety of events throughout the year.

Visitor reviews

'The content on display is vibrant, exciting and engaging. The staff were incredibly accommodating and the facilities were exemplary. Fantastic experience overall!'

'Really interesting museum, the artifacts are amazing. Well worth a visit'

'Brilliant museum in the heart of Chichester. Mixed age range of children and adults all found something to explore.'

'We came especially to see the Roman baths, but actually found the whole museum absolutely fascinating. Really worth visiting.' 

You can read more reviews on the Novium Museum's Tripadvisor page. (opens new window)