In January I was inspired by Makelight to choose a word to guide me through the year, instead of or as well as New Year’s Resolutions.

My word for 2017 is Explore.

To me, Explore means meeting new people, learning new things and visiting new places. I find exploring in this way really opens the mind, allows creativity to blossom and creates a great work life balance.

Today, I’m talking about my visit to Chichester on a rainy Sunday afternoon.

Chichester, a small but perfectly formed City, is nestled in the heart of West Sussex, about 1.5 hours by train from London. It’s steeped in history going back to the Roman era.

The Cathedral is a must see. It’s a stunning combination of architectural features from Norman to Victorian.

The large cobbled flower lined pavement draws your eyes to the arched window.

At the beginning of September the climbing fuscias and pretty hydrangeas still framed the archway beautifully.

Even on a rainy day the light in the timber roofed walkway outside Cloisters Cafe and shop was stunning.

The entrance to the cathedral can be found a short walk across the pretty square.

One of the first areas to catch my attention in this huge cavernous structure is the Sailors’ Chapel with a model ship suspended from the ceiling. The Chapel is dedicated to sailors who lost their lives during the Second World War.

Above is the beautiful Lady Chapel where people were in private prayer. The whole place provides a place for peaceful reflection.

The areas immediately surrounding the Cathedral were equally as stunning.

In the City there is an abundance of eating places.  The one below looked particularly pretty. This seems to be a City of little hustle and bustle in comparison to the larger Cities. It’s a place where people seem to take their time and breathe in the beautiful surroundings.

Below is my favourite find of the day – Susie Watson Designs.  I could have moved in to this store full of hand made pottery, beautiful linens and bespoke interior displays.

I love that there are so many independent stores selling unique products.

After lunch and a wander around the shops we visited Bosham, said to be one of the prettiest villages on the South coast.  It was just a short drive away and although we did get a bit lost I don’t think anyone would complain about getting lost in the stunningly beautiful area of Chichester Harbour.

Once we arrived at Bosham we drove along the narrow road immediately adjacent to the Harbour.  It floods every high tide so it definitely pays to look at the tide times before progressing!  As you can see from the photo below, the tide was very much out when we passed by.

If you love walking this area would be a wonderful place to spend some time.  It’s quintessentially English cottages are combined with spectacular views and it’s only a short drive from the City.

I hope you’ve enjoyed this post and it’s inspired you to explore! There are so many wonderful places to see — whether it’s something local or far away. There is so much to learn and so many new people to meet.

Stay safe and cosy until the next time.

Yvonne x