A IS FOR ARUNDEL
Tucked away in the picturesque South Downs (West Sussex) England, lies Arundel, a charming town that offers a perfect blend of history, nature, and culture. Arundel has something for everyone. Known for its towering cathedral, magnificent castle, and quaint streets, Arundel makes for a perfect day trip or weekend getaway. Here's to making the most of your visit to Arundel, packed with all the must-see spots, local favourites, and insider tips!
1. Step Back in Time at Arundel Castle
Why Visit?
Arundel Castle, a towering medieval fortress, is the heart of Arundel. Built in the late 11th century, this grand castle has been the seat of the Duke of Norfolk for over 800 years. With a beautifully preserved interior filled with priceless art, tapestries, and antique furniture, Arundel Castle feels like stepping into a real-life fairytale.
What to See:
The Keep: Climb to the top for panoramic views of Arundel and the South Downs.
The Gardens: The exquisite gardens, especially the Collector Earl's Garden, are bursting with seasonal flowers, water features, and lush greenery.
Medieval Re-enactments: If you’re lucky, your visit might coincide with one of the castle’s re-enactment events, which bring history to life with jousting and medieval battles.
Emily’s Verdict?
Firstly my recent visit came with a little surprise—I arrived excited to explore Arundel Castle, only to find it was closed for the season! Turns out, the castle is only open from April to October, so if you're planning your trip, keep this in mind. I'll definitely be heading back in April to update this blog with all the castle's treasures! That being said it is still pretty impressive from the outside and I throughly enjoyed walking the surrounding area with it being in the distance.
Fun Fact: Arundel Castle has served as a backdrop for several films and TV shows, including The Young Victoria and Doctor Who.
2. A Town with a Cathedral but No City Status
Why Visit ?
Just a short stroll from the castle, Arundel Cathedral dedicated to Our Lady and Saint Philip Howard, is a stunning piece of Gothic Revival architecture that dominates the town’s skylineis. Built in 1873, this stunning Gothic-style cathedral with its intricately carved stonework and tall spires offers a quieter, reflective space to explore. Dedicated to the 15th Duke of Norfolk, it's known for its breathtaking stained-glass windows and peaceful ambiance.
When to Visit Arundel Cathedral:
If you’re visiting in June, don’t miss the Carpet of Flowers festival, held each year to celebrate the feast of Corpus Christi. The cathedral is adorned with an intricate floral display that stretches across the floor, making it a truly magical experience.
Emily’s Verdict
I had planned to step inside Arundel Cathedral during my visit, but a service was underway, so I decided to come back later. Unfortunately, I got lost on a walk and forgot to return!
From previous visits, I can say the intricate masonry and stained-glass windows are stunning, and the cathedral’s serene atmosphere is something I always enjoy, even though I’m not religious. Entry is free, but small donations are appreciated to help maintain this beautiful building.
I’ll be sure to return in June for the Carpet of Flowers, which transforms the cathedral floor into a vibrant floral display. It’s a must-see event.
Fun Fact - Interestingly, Arundel is one of the rare towns in the UK to have a cathedral without being a city—there are only 18 such places in the country!
3. Explore Arundel’s Charming Streets and Local Shops
Why Visit?
Arundel’s High Street and surrounding lanes are dotted with antique shops, quirky boutiques, and inviting tea rooms. Here, you’ll find everything from vintage treasures to handcrafted gifts, making it a great spot for souvenir shopping.
Insider Tip:
To get the most out of your visit, consider joining a daily walking tour of the town. For around £8 per person, these guided tours provide fascinating insights into Arundel’s history, architecture, and hidden gems. Tours typically last around 90 minutes and are a great way to immerse yourself in the town’s charm. I cant remember the exact times but it was publicised around the town.
Also, If you’re a fan of local produce and artisan goods, plan your visit around the Farmers’ Market, held on the third Saturday of every month. From freshly baked bread to locally grown fruits and vegetables, it’s a fantastic way to sample the best of Sussex while supporting local businesses.
4. Get Lost in Arundel’s Countryside
Arundel is surrounded by the natural beauty of the South Downs, and there are plenty of trails and paths to explore. Here are some local favorites:
Swanbourne Lake: Just a short walk from the castle, Swanbourne Lake offers boat rentals and scenic trails. It’s a peaceful spot to watch swans glide across the water.
Arundel Wetland Centre: A 26-hectare haven for wildlife, the Arundel Wetland Centre is home to rare birds, ducks, and water voles. You can take a boat safari to get closer to nature or just wander the boardwalks surrounded by stunning views.
Emily’s Walk - I choose to walk the circular route taking in a bit of the river the beautiful lake and the views ontop of the hill that on a clear day you can see the sea. You also get to pass a Little building that looks like rupunzel could live there on top of the hill. Depending on your fitness there are walks for everyone. short walks around the lake to whole sections of the South Down Way.
Wrapping Up Arundel: The First Stop in the A-Z of Great Britain
Well, that concludes the A of the A-Z of Great Britain! I hope you’ve enjoyed reading about Arundel and exploring its charm through the stories and photos. From the grandeur of the castle (which I’ll revisit when it reopens!) to the serene beauty of the cathedral and the lively local markets, Arundel has something for everyone.
If you’re curious to see more photos from my trip, I’ll be uploading them to the gallery soon. Feel free to browse or even purchase your favorite ones to bring a little piece of Arundel into your home.
Don't forget to sign up for the mailing list to be the first to know when the next post—B—is live! Sharing the journey with others is half the fun, so if you’ve enjoyed this blog, please share it with friends and fellow explorers.
Here’s to more adventures ahead. Happy exploring! 🚶♀️✨
