Almshouse Arcade
The building on the north side of The Hornet (no 19) has a foundation stone dated to 1802. This building is now the 'Almshouse Arcade' housing a shopping arcade of 12 smaller shops. Up to about the 1970s however it was the 'Old Dears' Almshouses, so named as it provided housing for elderly ladies living on slender means.
Prior to the start of the 19th century there had been six earlier almshouses on the site. These had become severely dilapidated to the extent they could no longer be used. However, local philanthropist Martha Dear left a legacy of £1,000 to fund them again.
Martha was the eldest daughter of John Dear Esq, Alderman and Town Clerk. She died aged 77 on 18 July 1807. Her will listed an extensive portfolio of farms and lands and a number of bequests to various people. As an unmarried woman she'd been wealthy.
The Almshouse Arcade has been Established for over 40 years, is made up of twelve small retail units with a unique vintage charm.
Our current businesses within the Almshouse Arcade are listed below -:
Unit 1 Chairchester A funky artisan enterprise in Chichester, West Sussex. Producing bespoke & commissioned handmade upholstery & lampshades. Fun, fresh and unique pieces! www.chairchester.com
Unit 2 Opening March 2025 - Studio 198 London - Bookbinder & Retailer of Home Textile & Wallcoverings
Unit 3 Opening 3rd March - Sam Stitches Clothing Repairs & Alterations
Unit 4 Knights Gentlemans Hairdressing - By Appointment only, Open Tuesday - Friday 9-3pm. Saturday 9-1pm Closed Mon & Thurs. For appointments call 01243 785973.
Unit 5 Angels Crystals & All Tings Pachamama - Crystals - Hand Tumbled or Raw Smudge Sticks - Sage or Santo Paulo Jewellery - Bespoke, Personalised. www.pashamama.net
Unit 6 Coming Soon! Opening April 2025 Broken Rose Gothic Clothing, Accessories & more!
Unit 7 GoodWood Stoves We supply and install wood burning stoves. https://www.facebook.com/GoodWoodStoves
Unit 9 Symen's Barbers - By appointment only. Open 8-5pm, Closed Monday. Call 01243 782648 for an appointment.
Unit 10 Unit to Let Enquiries to 01243 528089 - Men's Vintage Clothing
Unit 12 Time Machine Records - Record Collections purchased. Rare vinyl records, Rock & Pop memorabilia. Call 07900 142716.
Unit 14 Almshouse Vintage - Authentic & Vintage Inspired Clothing for Ladies & Gentlemen. Call 01243 528089.