Caring for 500,000 Artefacts
The Novium Museum looks after more than half a million objects that tell the story of Chichester District — from prehistoric flints to twentieth-century social history, all preserved for future generations.
Our Collection at a Glance
Spanning millions of years of natural and human history, our collections are one of the most significant heritage resources in West Sussex.
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From Prehistory to the Present
Our collections cover the full breadth of the Chichester District's story. Prehistoric flint tools and Bronze Age metalwork lead into the rich Roman material from Noviomagus Reginorum. Saxon pottery, medieval church fragments and Tudor civic regalia chart the growth of the city through the centuries.
The nineteenth and twentieth centuries are represented through social history collections — photographs, tools, household objects and personal items — that capture the everyday lives of the people of the district. Together, these objects create a vivid and evolving portrait of our community.
See What's on Display
Collections in Focus
Each area of the collection is supported by detailed research and careful conservation work behind the scenes.
The Roman Collection
Our Roman collection is one of the finest in southern England. Coins, samian ware, oyster shells and intricate mosaics paint a detailed picture of life in Noviomagus Reginorum from the first to the fourth century AD.
The Geology Collection
Fossils, minerals and rock samples gathered over more than a century reveal the deep geological story of the Chichester District — from Cretaceous seas to the chalk downlands that define the landscape today.
The Social History Collection
Photographs, domestic objects, shop signs and personal mementoes capture the lived experience of generations of local people. Many of these objects have been donated by families in Chichester District.
Research & Enquiries
Access for Researchers
Our stores and archives are available for research by appointment. Students, academics and members of the public can request access to study objects in detail under the supervision of our curatorial team.
Identification & Advice
Found something interesting? Our team is happy to help identify local archaeological finds and historical objects. We also advise on the conservation and recording of items discovered in the district.
Donations & Offers: We are always grateful to receive objects that relate to the history of Chichester District. If you have something you would like us to consider, please get in touch. All offers are reviewed by our collections panel.
Discover the Collections for Yourself
Our permanent galleries display the finest objects from across the collections, alongside engaging stories and interactive displays. Entry is free and everyone is welcome.