The 10 Best Things to Do in Arundel, U.K.

If you’re planning a visit to Arundel, this post details 10 of the very best things to do in the medieval Sussex town.

Arundel's stunning castle, charming streets, and picturesque countryside make it a must-visit destination in the South of England. Nestled amidst the rolling hills of West Sussex, Arundel is a dreamlike escape full of interesting things to do for every traveler wandering its uneven cobbled streets. I’ve created this comprehensive list of the very best things to do in Arundel so that you can make the most of your time in this quaint English town.

Beyond its impressive architecture, Arundel boasts an artistic soul, with numerous galleries, boutiques, and craft shops that showcase the talents of local artisans. Nature enthusiasts will find solace in the tranquil Arundel Wetland Centre, a haven for avian species and a serene spot to reconnect with the great outdoors. Whether you're an avid historian, an art aficionado, or simply in search of a serene retreat, Arundel promises an unforgettable experience that captures the heart and soul of England's countryside charm. Arundel is an ideal getaway for art lovers, history fanatics, and those in search of a quintessentially British getaway.

how to get to Arundel ↴

Getting to Arundel is relatively easy and there are several options available depending on your initial location. If you're coming from London, you can take a direct train from Victoria Station, which takes approximately 1.5 hours. Alternatively, you can drive to Arundel from London, which takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic. There is paid parking available near Arundel Castle, and the village is very walkable.

If you're traveling from further away, the closest airport to Arundel is Gatwick Airport, which is approximately a 45-minute drive away. From the airport, you can take a train or rent a car to get to Arundel.

where to stay in Arundel ↴

You’ll be spoilt for choice with charming accommodation options in Arundel. From historic castle hotels to boutique bed and breakfasts, there are gorgeous stays for you to pick from.

The Pig - South Downs | My #1 recommendation for accommodation in Arundel is the luxury boutique hotel, The Pig. Each room is uniquely furnished with velvety fabrics and plush amenities.
The Swan Hotel | An intimate B’n’B setting that offers cozy rooms, creating a warm and inviting ambiance for your stay.
Amberley Castle | For those who feel like spending some serious coin, staying at Amberley Castle is as close to the royal experience as the common traveler may ever get.
Arundel Woods Lodge | A hidden gem retreat in the Sussex countryside surrounded by lush greenery and tranquil landscape.

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10 best things to do in Arundel ↴

Arundel Castle

Without question, the number #1 thing to add to your Arundel itinerary is a visit to Arundel Castle. Visiting the castle during its annual Tulip Festival was the sole purpose of our trip to Arundel, and it did not disappoint. While admission was a bit expensive, I can genuinely say it was worth it.

You can expect to spend approximately two hours walking around the castle gardens, grounds, and its many bedrooms. The castle is in great condition despite its long, weathered history. Much of this can be attributed to the Duke of Norfolk and a large restoration project that included installing electricity and fitting the complex with central heating.

ADMISSION | £27 per adult

SUP

Explore Arundel’s waterways through stand-up paddleboarding. There are a number of paddleboarding schools in Arundel and the surrounding area. They supply all the basic equipment you’ll need (board, paddle, leash, etc.) and are led by experienced paddleboarding instructors. Many operators will also include the use of a wetsuit, but this varies and you should read the terms and conditions of your booking before making any assumptions about what is provided.

I recommend you book a session with SUP + Soul. They are focused on curating a welcoming, wellness-centered paddleboarding experience for all levels of boarders. Their lessons also allow you time to take in the beauty of your Sussex surroundings.

Arundel Cathedral

I’m not typically the kind of gal who goes out of her way to visit churches unless it’s historically, culturally, or architecturally significant. However, Arundel’s Cathedral Church of Our Lady and St Philip Howard is worth adding to your Arundel itinerary. The cathedral sits on a hill overlooking the village and its winding cobblestone streets. It’s free to enter and open to the public.

ADMISSION | free

South Downs National Park

If you happen to be traveling to Arundel by car, I highly recommend making the 20-minute drive to South Downs National Park. Of the UK’s 15 National Parks, South Downs is the newest, but you’ve undoubtedly seen photos of the South Downs’ chalk cliffs lining the coastline. The national park is home to some of the UK’s last chalk grassland, which has been steadily in decline since World War II. Between the iconic ridgeline and the numerous walkways, South Downs is simply a must while you’re in the Arundel area.

Can’t make it before nightfall? Go in the dark! In 2016, South Downs earned its Dark Sky Reserve status, making one of 16 Dark Sky Reserves in the world and recognizing it as one of the best places in the UK to see the stars.

Kim’s Bookshop

Kim’s Bookshop is an independent, secondhand bookstore with locations in both Arundel and Chichester. Kim’s Bookshop in Arundel is housed in an 18th-century building at the end of the main street. The store’s wooden shelves are lined with unique titles, preloved leather-bounds, and new releases. Whether you are in the market for something to read or not, consider popping into Kim’s.

antique shopping

Arundel’s antique shopping will have your wallet begging for a break. There is no shortage of vintage shops selling antiquities and treasures. The village’s history makes it a perfect place to find aging treasures, from first-edition books and vintage maps to beautiful home furnishings that have only gotten better with time.

Here are a few of my favorite antique shops in Arundel:

No. 12 Antiques | Antique shop located on Arundel’s main street selling vintage finds + quirky trinkets.
Nineveh House | An independent sales house filled with handicrafts, homewares, + antique treasures.
Twice as Nice | Vintage furnishings and antique home goods.
Old Maps + Prints | Fair prices on vintage posters, prints, + maps.

Swanbourne Lake

Each year, thousands of visitors wander from Arundel to Swanbourne Lake to complete the 5-kilometer walk around the water. The area is rich in plant species and wildlife. If you’re paying attention while you walk around the lake, you’ll notice waterfowl, giant dragonflies, and bats! The lake has been used as an energy source for pump houses, mills, and even Arundel Castle over the centuries. In the 1970s, the lake had all but dried up. It wasn’t until the early 2000s that its water levels were restored. Now, it’s a quiet spot to envelope yourself in nature.

support small businesses

One thing that surprised me the most about Arundel was the number of independent stores and boutique shops scattered throughout the village. I found a number of home furnishing stores, accessory shops, and boutique vendors around Arundel that sold beautiful items, many of which would have made fantastic gifts.

Some of my favorite small businesses in Arundel are:

Pots + Posies | Shop here for gorgeous homeware and jewelry.
The Tea + Biscuit Club | Shop here for teapots, tea varieties, and biscuits to accompany your preferred hot beverage.
Lavender House | Shop here for plants (indoor + outdoor) and homewares.

British high tea

It wouldn’t make sense to forego British high tea while visiting a village as quintessentially British as Arundel. Lucky for you, there are a number of Arundel establishments that serve tiered trays of cakes, sandwiches, and scones alongside pots of English tea. A high tea experience is something I always recommend to travelers in the UK, as it makes a great rainy day activity, and with English weather, it makes sense to always have a rainy day plan.

Amberley Village Tea Room | Dog-friendly establishment serving generous portions + a fantastic tea selection.
Swanbourne Lodge Tea Room | Affordable afternoon tea suitable for vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free patrons.
Lulamae’s | Homemade cakes + light lunch options, perfect for casual dining.
Cockburn’s Tea Room | An independent tea room offering a quintessential afternoon tea in the heart of Arundel.
The Tea + Biscuit Club | Offers a tea-tasting experience in lieu of your classic high tea.

Arundel Contemporary

The Arundel Contemporary is an independent art gallery dedicated to promoting contemporary British artists. The gallery is housed in a historic building, constructed by the same architect who designed Arundel Cathedral. Located down one of Arundel’s medieval lanes, the art gallery takes up two floors with various original art exhibits.

where to eat in Arundel ↴

Arundel is seething with good eats, especially considering its modest size. Whether you’re hungry for brunch or searching for afternoon tea, Arundel has a little something for everyone. My favorite spot on our list was The Edible Sandwich Co., simply because the café’s location combined with its friendly staff and deliciously fresh food made it the perfect spot for a casual meal.

The Edible Sandwich Co. | From paninis to comfort foods like fresh soups, this café set alongside the river is an excellent spot for lunch.
The Parsons Table | Book ahead for an upscale dining experience. You must try the potato + herb gnocchi!
La Campania | Expect Italian food served in a pub-style venue.
Motte + Bailey Café | Brunch in Arundel never tasted better than at Motte + Bailey Café.
Belinda’s Tea Rooms | Belinda’s is the place in Arundel for classic British high tea.
Juniper | Best known for its expertly baked bread (made fresh daily), Juniper is open for breakfast, lunch, + dinner.
Bagels + Coffee | As its name suggests, this tiny café serves coffee and bagels with limited seating.