More than 11,000 visitors help raise almost £180,000 for Chichester Cathedral

More than 11,000 people visited Chichester Cathedral’s Festival of Flowers over four days in June, helping to raise £176,403 towards the preservation of the historic cathedral.

The 2026 Festival marked its 30th anniversary and welcomed more visitors than ever before, with people travelling from across the UK to see the Cathedral transformed by floral displays inspired by the theme Nature’s Embrace.

More than 60 displays were created under the creative direction of Lead Designer Caroline Daines, bringing together floral designers, newcomers, schools, community groups and hundreds of volunteers.

Highlights included a VIP Preview Evening, the Festival Market and Plant Market, selling plants, gifts, clothing and crafts.

As the flagship fundraiser for the Chichester Cathedral Restoration and Development Trust, the Festival supports the preservation of the Cathedral’s historic fabric, as well as its music, education and community programmes.

Director of Fundraising, Alison George commented: "To welcome more than 11,000 visitors in our 30th anniversary year and to have raised almost £180,000 for Chichester Cathedral is a fantastic achievement. The Festival is only possible because of the dedication, creativity and generosity of so many people, from our floral designers and arrangers to the hundreds of volunteers who give their time so willingly.

"It is also wonderful to see so many young people, schools and students getting involved, ensuring the skills, passion and enjoyment of floral design continue to flourish for future generations. Thank you to everyone who visited and supported this year's Festival. Every ticket purchased will help safeguard Chichester Cathedral for generations to come."

Lead Designer, Caroline Daines said: "After months in the making, I am absolutely delighted to learn how much money the Festival has raised and how many people came to experience the displays. I can't thank the floral designers, arrangers and volunteers enough for bringing my vision for Nature's Embrace to life. It has been an honour to play a part in such a prestigious event, and I will treasure the experience forever."

Businesses across Chichester also joined the celebrations through the first Chichester in Bloom initiative.

Natasha McLeod, CEO of Chichester BID commented: "The Festival of Flowers is a fantastic celebration that attracts thousands of visitors to Chichester, bringing a welcome boost to our city centre businesses.

"We were delighted with the response to our first ever Chichester in Bloom campaign this year, which complemented the Festival beautifully by showcasing the city at its very best and encouraged people to explore, stay longer and discover everything our shops, cafés and attractions have to offer."

Since 1996, the Festival of Flowers has raised more than £1.4 million. The next Festival will take place from June 7 to 10, 2028.

Get the latest BREAKING NEWS for the SOUTH on your phone by downloading the V2 RADIO APP today! Read with ease, no annoying pop-up ads.

V2VOUCHERS.CO.UK is offering half-price deals on a wide range of experiences across the South, from meals out at local restaurants to tickets for some of the region’s biggest events.