Magnificent, Medieval Arundel

Looking for a weekend with a ‘Wow-Factor’? Visit Arundel Castle and the surrounding area!

If you're looking for somewhere to visit that will take your breath away this Summer, then I can't recommend a trip to Arundel Castle enough! I lost count of the number of times that my husband and I said 'Wow!' as we explored both the inside of Arundel Castle and its stunning grounds when we travelled there last year.  

Arundel Castle

Arundel Castle, which is located in Arundel in West Sussex overlooking the River Arun, is a restored medieval castle that was first established during the reign of Edward the Confessor back in 1067. It has for over 400 years been the seat of the Earls of Arundel and the Dukes of Norfolk. The current Duke who is also the Earl Marshal of England, and his wife the Duchess of Norfolk still currently live in a part of Arundel Castle and raised their children there!

 As you arrive and first glance up at the towering castle before you, you can't help but feel in awe of its majesty. It is, what I would describe as a 'proper castle' - the sort you would find in children's storybooks. There's something special about it that I think you can only really appreciate when you are there. 

The grounds of the castle are as breathtaking as the castle itself and the decor inside. Don't miss the view of Arundel Cathedral from the castle gardens which is so stunning with its gothic architecture that it almost doesn't look real! Summer is an ideal time to go to Arundel so that you spend lots of time exploring the beautiful grounds at your own pace. There are lots of lovely nooks to sit in and take it all in. You can also pick up a drink and a brownie from a stand in the gardens and just soak in the beauty of it all.

Fun Fact

Arundel Castle has been used as a filming location for several television and film productions including Doctor Who, Wonder Woman, The Young Victoria, and more!

‍Don't miss

During Summer, Arundel Castle has Medieval weekends taking place on selected weekends as well as a Medieval Jousting Tournament between 26th and 31st July 2022. There’s a history weekend and the 13th and 14th of August. An open-air theatre in the castle’s gardens on 19th and 20th August and also a Festival of History weekend from 27th thru 29th August. 

What's Nearby?

I also recommend seeing Arundel town if you haven't ever been before, it's within walking distance and there are lots of lovely shops and restaurants to spend time in. You can see Arundel's beautiful gothic cathedral for free, just check the opening times before you go. Take a wander around the many antique and independent shops if you're looking to find something unique to take home with you. There's also a fantastic Italian restaurant located on the High Street called La Campania which offers traditional Italian fine dining or has a picnic at Swanbourne Lake to save money. (You can hire rowing boats there during the Summer to float away in the sun).  

You are not far from the coast and Littlehampton is home to two award-winning beaches and is a popular destination for families and couples. This summer they have an Artisan market celebrating local art on the 23rd of July and a sandcastle competition on the 9th of August. You also have the beautiful South Downs National Park just 30 minutes’ drive away. 

Where to stay?

There’s a huge choice of places to stay when in West Sussex. We stayed at 'The Highdown' in Goring-by-Sea, 15 minutes from Arundel. The hotel itself is a bit like a quaint bar/restaurant and then has a separate building for the rooms. We found the staff were very friendly and dinner and dessert in the evening were incredible, as was the extensive drinks menu.

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A trip to Arundel Castle and the surrounding area this Summer would be an amazing choice for a weekend or mid-week getaway! 

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