An array of artworks and artefacts celebrating J R R Tolkien’s hugely influential high-fantasy novels, The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit, will be on display at the museum until September 24.
As a city which has been the scene of ancient battles, is home to innumerable ghostly tales and is surrounded by a countryside fit for any Baggins or Brandybuck, here are some of the reasons why Chichester is a real-life Middle-earth.
5. The Shire
A countryside that a Hobbit could proud of. The beautiful green rolling hills of the South Downs would make the perfect setting for any adventure with lush meadows, woodland and rivers all around. Photo: Joe Stack
6. Return of the King?
His Majesty visited the Weald and Downland Museum in 2010 but with his coronation later this year, can Cicestrians expect a visit? Photo: Louise Adams
7. "This, my friend, is a pint."
Many weary adventurer will have washed down their supper with an ale in The Nags Head in St Pancras, which has to be Chichester's equivalent of The Prancing Pony, where the hobbits took refuge. Photo: Google
8. Andruil/Narsil
A sword belonging to an ancient warrior was found near Chichester in North Bersted a few years ago, broken beyond repair, unlike Aaragorn's Anduril which was build from the shards of Narsil. Photo: CDC