Arundel Castle, one of those days out that is so British – nestled deep in West Sussex, close to the coast between Chichester and Worthing we enjoyed a spur of the moment adventure.
The word castle I don’t think is a fair appraisal of Arundel Castle – from the private chapel, to the grand room and the various living rooms open – not to mention the very bedroom that was designed for Queen Victoria to stay in – it has more of a palace feel.
There is so much history, which is not surprising as with nearly a thousand years of history.
There are a number of ticket types, gardens only which are extensive – we were lucky to visit during the Tulip festival which was outstanding. To visit inside the castle, there is a general ticket and a type that includes the bedrooms. We opted for the general (this does include Queen Victoria’s bedroom) and found it to be more than enough. Both Castle tickets give access to the keep: it is steep at times, but the views are worth the climb.
During our visit, we were helped along by guides who weren’t just there to help the flow but who were genuinely knowledgeable – a skill that is needed when you’re in the company of a fact thirsty 10-year-old.
The Duke of Norfolk is considered the Premier Duke of England a fact that seemed to score bonus points with Boo: who knew there was a hierarchy of dukedoms.
Arundel Cathedral, the Catholic cathedral church completely separate from the castle is the foundation of the diocese of Arundel and Brighton. Rising impressively over the town, it can be seen from the castle’s keep – we all know I love a Cathedral so running out of time has guaranteed our return to Arundel.
Getting there
Arundel train station is less than a 10 minute walk away and is served by trains from London Victoria with a regular service. If travelling by car there’s a car park directly opposite Arundel Castle and it was ridiculously cheap to park for the day so much so I had to check the app again and again – think the cost of an ice cream for the full day.
The town
Whilst you could get lost in Arundel Castle for a day or ten, the castle is on the edge of Arundel town itself. A small yet perfectly formed town Arundel is great for losing yourself (easily finding your way back to the main drag) along the small streets, popping into the numerous antique and collector shops with plenty of pubs and coffee stops too.
Eating
Whilst there is a restaurant and cafe within the castle itself it’s always nice to get out and explore the town; we settled on independent Italian restaurant for lunch, La Campania – its exterior is a hybrid of chocolate box come treasure trove which makes sense when you learn that it is a converted traditional pub. A set menu is availble at lunch and is easily one of the best hidden gem lunches we’ve had in a long time, a must if you’re visiting Arundel.
Arundel is almost too big for it’s boots – I’m not sure you can do it justice in one day, with the cathedral next to the Castle, the town and surrounding countryside with all the walks that come with it; Arundel is a day out that will deliver again and again.
