The Novium Museum - Chichester

Address: 1 Tower St, Chichester PO19 1QH, United Kingdom.
Phone: 1243775888.
Website: thenovium.org
Specialties: Museum, Archaeological museum, History museum, Local history museum, Science museum, Tourist attraction, Tourist information center.
Other points of interest: On-site services, Assistive hearing loop, Wheelchair-accessible entrance, Wheelchair-accessible toilet, Wheelchair-accessible car park, Wheelchair rental, Gender-neutral toilets, Toilet, Wi-Fi, Wi-Fi, Restaurant, Family friendly, LGBTQ+ friendly, Transgender safe space, Family discount, Good for kids, Kid-friendly activities, Paid parking lot.
Opinions: This company has 865 reviews on Google My Business.
Average opinion: 4.5/5.

📌 Location of The Novium Museum

The Novium Museum 1 Tower St, Chichester PO19 1QH, United Kingdom

⏰ Open Hours of The Novium Museum

  • Monday: Closed
  • Tuesday: 10 am–4:30 pm
  • Wednesday: 10 am–4:30 pm
  • Thursday: 10 am–4:30 pm
  • Friday: 10 am–4:30 pm
  • Saturday: 10 am–5 pm
  • Sunday: 10 am–4 pm

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The Novium Museum: A Cultural Gem in Chichester

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Nestled in the heart of Chichester, The Novium Museum stands as a beacon of cultural and historical engagement, attracting visitors from across the United Kingdom and beyond. Located at 1 Tower Street, Chichester PO19 1QH, this comprehensive museum offers a rich tapestry of experiences, blending archaeology, local history, and science in a welcoming environment. Opened in 2011, the museum serves as a modern hub for learning and leisure, standing adjacent to the historic Novium Shopping Centre, making it easily accessible to both tourists and locals. Its strategic location places it within a stone's throw of Chichester's vibrant city centre, complete with cafes, shops, and other attractions, allowing visitors to seamlessly combine their museum visit with explorations of the charming South of England town.

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A Journey Through Time and Discovery

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The Novium Museum is dedicated to providing a multifaceted experience, encompassing Museum, Archaeological museum, History museum, Local history museum, and Science museum specializations. Its core mission is to educate, inspire, and entertain, offering insights into the diverse layers of human history that shape the Chichester area and the wider region. The museum houses an extensive collection, ranging from prehistoric artifacts unearthed from the local area to detailed exhibits on Roman Britain, a subject of particular interest given the significant Roman remains discovered nearby.

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The museum's collection is frequently updated, ensuring there is always something new to discover. Key highlights include the well-preserved remains of an old Roman settlement, often showcased in dedicated exhibitions. Additionally, thematic displays delve into subjects like the history of Chichester itself, from its Roman foundations to its growth as a medieval and modern city. The science wing engages visitors of all ages with interactive exhibits, exploring topics from natural history to the principles of physics and technology.

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Facilities and Accessibility

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Beyond its world-class exhibits, The Novium Museum prides itself on its commitment to visitor comfort and accessibility. The facility is thoughtfully designed to cater to diverse needs, featuring a wheelchair-accessible entrance, a wheelchair-accessible toilet, and a wheelchair-accessible car park. For those requiring additional assistance, wheelchair rental services are available on site. Recognizing the importance of inclusivity, the museum also provides an assistive hearing loop system to enhance the experience for visitors with hearing impairments. Furthermore, gender-neutral toilets are provided, adding to the inclusive atmosphere.

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Families are particularly welcome at The Novium Museum, with a range of kid-friendly activities designed to engage younger visitors. The museum offers family discounts and ensures that educational content is presented in an accessible manner for children. Its reputation as a Family friendly venue is well-deserved, making it an ideal destination for educational outings. The on-site restaurant provides a convenient place for families and groups to refuel during their visit.

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A Hub for Community and Tourism

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Serving as a Tourist attraction and a Tourist information center, The Novium Museum is an invaluable resource for visitors navigating the Chichester area. Its friendly and knowledgeable staff are ready to provide guidance, maps, and information about local events and other points of interest. The museum actively engages with the local community, often hosting special exhibitions and educational programs that celebrate the unique heritage of the Chichester region.

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Visitor reviews consistently praise the museum's engaging exhibits and welcoming atmosphere. Many commend the clarity and depth of the displays, noting the well-preserved artifacts, particularly those related to Roman history. The museum's efforts to maintain high standards of service and facilities are frequently highlighted. While some temporary exhibitions, like the 'I Grew Up in the 80s' display, may require an additional fee, these proceeds often support the museum's core operations and community initiatives. Despite past extra costs for specific exhibitions, the overall value and educational experience provided by the museum are overwhelmingly positive, reflected in its impressive Google My Business rating of 4.5 out of 5, based on over 865 reviews.

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Planning Your Visit

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Reaching The Novium Museum is straightforward, with its address clearly marked at 1 Tower Street, Chichester PO19 1QH. For those preferring to call ahead, the museum can be contacted via telephone at 1243775888. For the most current information regarding opening hours, current exhibitions, and special events, it is recommended to consult the official website, thenovium.org. The website also provides details about group visits, educational resources, and any applicable admission fees, ensuring visitors are well-prepared for their cultural journey.

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As a community asset and a hub of learning, The Novium Museum offers an enriching experience suitable for individuals of all ages and backgrounds. From history buffs and archaeology enthusiasts to families and science lovers, there is something compelling for everyone within its walls. It stands as a testament to the power of community-driven cultural initiatives and remains a vital part of Chichester's identity.

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"summary": "A comprehensive museum in Chichester offering history, archaeology, and science exhibits with excellent accessibility features.",
"keywords": ["Archaeological Museum", "Family Activities", "Chichester Museum", "Roman History", "Family Friendly", "Accessibility Features", "Science Museum"],
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👍 Reviews of The Novium Museum

The Novium Museum - Chichester
Matt L.
3/5

Nice museum to spend an hour. You can see the remains of an old Roman settlement which are well preserved. The I Grew Up in the 80s exhibition was good to see as I was born in this era there was an extra cost of £5.00 to see it but all goes to the museum.

The Novium Museum - Chichester
Sara R.
5/5

What a wonderful place. We went to see a temporary exhibit (small cost) and the rest of the museum is free. I was stunned when i walked in and saw an entired floor of roman remains (bath house) ...pieces of a mosaic on the wall and many, many amazing pieces. Highly recommend heading over, the ground floor is great for seeing the roman past, 1st floor is good local hostory (very interesting- but warning it does contain human remains- bones) and a small exhibit room at the back which is currently about pride 🏳️‍🌈🏳️‍⚧️ in Chichester with personal stories and history/information. The top floor is currently devoted to the temporary exhibit 'i grew up in the 80's' -(on until 8/6/25) i highly recommend this for all ages whilst it is there and i really hope the museum will do a Ninties one soon as it was amazing!! From July 2025 they will have an exhibit on local company Shippam's (which some may know as Princes- think canned tuna and fish paste!) and how they were an integral part of the town. 👍

The Novium Museum - Chichester
Nearly B.
5/5

On our last visit to Chichester, we saw there was an 80's exhibit at the museum. It was only a fiver to be transported back to that fabulous decade. Sights and sounds, a small dress up box and a video game with our favourites games of the day gave us a happy hour of recollection. It was nice to send photos to mother in law with the 'eh do remember these?' tag.
It was interesting to see the Chichester history too, and the Roman remains were so beautifully displayed. I didn't take pictures of that though, no just lots of Atari, BT dial phones and us in shell suits with bum bags and bucket hats! 😂 Staff were cheerful, helpful and everywhere was clean and well presented.
Definitely worth a visit to see what's on next.

The Novium Museum - Chichester
Toby O.
5/5

We went to see the 'Born in the 80s' exhibition and it was so good to see so many things that reminded me of my childhood. The dressing up area was fun for the kids and loved playing the retro arcade machine (50p per game needed) and my skills have not stood the test of time! The film posters and toys section brought back many memories. The exhibition is not large, but neither is the cost to get in, and it was lovely to be reminded of all the 80s music, video and food. We'll worth a visit especially if you have teenagers to show them how we used to entertain ourselves back in the day.

The Novium Museum - Chichester
Elizabeth F.
5/5

My children and I love going to the Novium. Alongside the regular displays, there are always new and interesting displays on show. Currently it is "I grew up in the 80s" Previously, there have been Starwars, dinosaurs, and Lego! The Novium holds a lot of Chichesters history, and it regularly gets involved with local events and shows.
At the past Roaman event in Priory Park, I completed a survey for Novium and won tickets to their display!
As a bit of a history buff I am very fond of the Novium!

The Novium Museum - Chichester
Juliet F.
5/5

Fabulous museum in Chichester with some Roman mosaics and other finds as well as some treasures dug up from the local surrounding area. New Pride Exhibition was also excellent as well as the nostalgic 80s one

The Novium Museum - Chichester
El Z.
5/5

Lovely museum in the city centre with free entry and excellent views of the cathedral. The roman ruins at the ground floor are impressive! I visit it again and again and I have recently enjoyed the "Shippam's" exhibition which was incredible.

The Novium Museum - Chichester
Michael W.
4/5

Free entry. 3 floors mainly telling the history of Chichester. Go to the top floor for a panorama of the Cathedral and other buildings.
There's also an informative film about the Selsey railway that was.
Dropped a star for having a societal exhibition on the first floor very unsuitable and inappropriate for children.

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