Chichester named world's top 10 travel destination for 2027

Chichester has been named one of the world's top 10 trending travel destinations for 2027, becoming the only UK location to feature in a prestigious international ranking by travel giant Expedia.

The cathedral city has secured a place in Expedia's Destinations of the Year 2027 list, following a 30 per cent increase in online travel searches compared with the previous year.

The recognition places Chichester alongside popular international destinations in Japan, Italy, South Korea, Australia, Mexico, Canada and the United States.

The rankings form part of Expedia's annual Unpack '27: The Trends in Travel report, which uses travel search data to identify destinations experiencing the fastest growth in interest.

Chichester ranked tenth globally, highlighting its growing appeal to visitors from Britain and overseas.

Expedia said Chichester's combination of history, culture, countryside and coastal attractions as key reasons for its growing popularity.

The city is renowned for its historic cathedral, Roman heritage, independent shops and thriving arts scene.

Popular attractions include Chichester Festival Theatre, Pallant House Gallery and the city's historic streets and buildings.

Visitors can also explore the nearby South Downs National Park or enjoy the coastline around West Wittering and Chichester Harbour.

The city was additionally recognised through Expedia's Smart Travel Health Check, which highlights destinations offering memorable visitor experiences while managing tourism responsibly.

Councillor Adrian Moss, Leader of Chichester District Council, welcomed the announcement.

“We are absolutely delighted that Chichester has been recognised as one of the world's top trending destinations and is the only UK location to feature in Expedia's Destinations of the Year list.

“This recognition reflects everything that makes our area such a special place to visit and enjoy. From our rich history and heritage to our vibrant arts and culture scene, spectacular landscapes and stunning coastline, Chichester offers something for everyone.”

Councillor Moss said the recognition would help promote local businesses and encourage more visitors to discover the district.

He also highlighted the recently launched Chichester Place Board, which aims to champion the area as a destination for visitors, businesses and residents.

The international recognition could also bring a high-profile visitor to the city.

Expedia has partnered with YouTube personality IShowSpeed, who has more than 100 million followers across his social media platforms.

The internet star has announced plans to visit all ten destinations featured in Expedia's 2027 list, including Chichester.

His planned visit could introduce the city to a substantial international online audience.

The announcement has also been welcomed by The Great Sussex Way, the organisation responsible for promoting tourism across the Chichester district.

Danielle Dunfield, Chief Executive Officer at The Great Sussex Way, said: “The Expedia report is a fantastic endorsement of the work we have been doing at The Great Sussex Way, raising the profile of this very special part of West Sussex and its stunning cathedral city, Chichester.

“More importantly, it shines a spotlight on the extraordinary mix of independent shops, pubs, restaurants, attractions and places to stay, run by the very people who give this area its distinctive character.”

The recognition provides a further opportunity to promote the local visitor economy, with businesses, attractions and accommodation providers potentially benefiting from increased international interest.

Chichester joins nine other international destinations in the rankings:

1. South Lake Tahoe, United States

2. Hyogo, Japan

3. Punta del Este, Uruguay

4. Sedona, United States

5. Busan, South Korea

6. Holbox, Mexico

7. Perugia, Italy

8. The Tweed, Australia

9. Niagara-on-the-Lake, Canada

10. Chichester, United Kingdom

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