Fishbourne Roman Palace – Chichester

Fishbourne Roman Palace is the largest Roman home north of the Alps, offering a look at 1st-century luxury in Britain. Visitors can explore the country’s most significant collection of in-situ mosaics, including the famous “Cupid on a Dolphin”.

What to See & Do

Mosaics & Ruins: View over 20 preserved mosaic floors from elevated walkways and see the remains of a hypocaust (underfloor heating) system.
Museum Gallery: Browse hundreds of artefacts, including jewellery and a marble head believed to be a young Emperor Nero.
Recreated Gardens: Walk through formal gardens replanted with species known to Romans, such as box hedging and espalier fruit trees.

For Kids

The site is highly family-friendly, with dedicated hands-on areas and activities:
Discovery Area: Kids can try mosaic-making, writing on wax tablets, spinning wool, and building arches.
Dressing Up: Children can wear Roman-style clothing or dress as a slave for role-play.
Outdoor Fun: Explore the Roman Garden Museum, which features a reconstructed potting shed with ancient gardening tools.

The palace hosts special events during school holidays:
February Half-Term: “Live Like a Roman” weeks with themed daily activities like pottery and jewellery making.
Easter: “Wild Things” event featuring birds of prey demonstrations, archery, and nature trails.
Summer: “Historic Hijinks” every Thursday in August, featuring games, craft workshops, and history-themed fun.
Winter: Occasional Winter Fayres with gifts, food, and seasonal cheer.

Opening Times (2026)
March – October: Daily, 10:00 am – 5:00 pm.
November – 15 December: Daily, 10:00 am – 4:00 pm.
January – 12 February: Weekends only, 10:00 am – 4:00 pm.
18 February – 27 March: Wednesday – Sunday, 10:00 am – 4:00 pm.
Last admission is always 30 minutes before closing.

Ticket Prices
Prices are managed by the Sussex Archaeological Society:
Ticket Type Price
Adult £13.95
Child (5–17) / Student £6.95
Senior (65+) £13.00
Family (1 adult, 3 kids) £24.00
Family (2 adults, 4 kids) £35.50
Under 5s Free
Members of the Sussex Archaeological Society visit for free.