Exploring Arundel: A Storybook Escape to the English Countryside
On our recent European trip, we made a point to visit some of England’s smaller towns. Exploring Arundel quickly became one of our favorite experiences. Tucked into the South Downs, this charming market town has castle views, riverside walks, antique shops, and cozy cafes. It feels like a place from a period drama, yet it’s just a short trip from London. If you’re looking for a relaxing escape with old-world charm, Arundel is an easy day trip or overnight stay. It’s simple to plan and even easier to love.
How to Get to Arundel from London
The best and easiest way to reach Arundel from London is by train. Direct trains depart regularly from London Victoria Station, with the journey taking about 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on the route. Most trains require a quick change at Barnham, but the transfers are well-timed and simple to navigate.
You could take the train for convenience and to avoid the hassle of driving and parking. Once you arrive at Arundel Station, it’s a scenic 10 to 15-minute walk into the center of town. You’ll pass over the River Arun, with your first glimpse of Arundel Castle rising in the distance—an unforgettable welcome.
Note: We actually did not leave from London, as we had already made the trip from London to Canterbury. So we drove to Arundel from Canterbury.
Travel Tips:
- Book advance off-peak tickets online to save money.
- Try to grab a seat on the right side of the train for countryside views.
- If you’re returning to London the same day, be mindful of the evening train schedule—trains thin out after 7 pm.
Where to Stay When Exploring Arundel
Norfolk Arms Hotel
We stayed at the Norfolk Arms Hotel in Arundel, and it offered a perfect mix of character, charm, and convenience. Housed in an 18th-century coaching inn, it sits at the base of Arundel Castle in the heart of town, making it an ideal location. Shops, cafés, and riverside walks are all just steps away, which made exploring incredibly easy and relaxed. The building itself has plenty of personality. Original beams and stone walls reflect its long history. At the same time, cozy corners and traditional details create a warm, inviting atmosphere that feels closely tied to the character of the town.
Our room was quiet and comfortable, providing a peaceful place to unwind after a day of exploring. The on-site bar and restaurant were a welcome bonus, especially in the evenings when we wanted to stay close by. It is not overly fancy, but it feels genuinely warm and welcoming. The hotel captures the spirit of Arundel perfectly, adding to the charm of the overall stay.
Things to Do When Exploring Arundel
Arundel may be small, but there’s plenty to explore in one relaxed day or overnight stay. It’s the kind of place where you want to take your time.
Visiting Arundel Castle During Our Time Exploring Arundel
The star of the show, Arundel Castle, is one of the most complete and impressive castles in England. The interiors are beautifully restored and still home to the Duke of Norfolk. Tour the castle’s grand rooms and admire centuries of history. Climb the ancient keep for sweeping views across the South Downs. Then wander through beautifully landscaped gardens filled with colorful flowers in spring and summer. Every corner offers something new to discover.
Sitting above the town, the castle is an impressive sight and can be seen from almost everywhere when exploring Arundel. The castle dates back to the late 11th century. It was originally built by Roger de Montgomery, a close ally of William the Conqueror. Although it has been restored and expanded over the years, its long history is still easy to appreciate.
We enjoyed walking through the castle and its grounds. The views from the top are stunning and stretch across the surrounding countryside. The gardens are just as beautiful. They are carefully maintained and provide a peaceful place to wander. What stood out most was how real the history felt. It was easy to imagine what life might have been like here centuries ago. Every part of the castle seemed to tell a story.
If you are visiting this part of England, exploring Arundel Castle is well worth a stop. It is a fascinating place to explore and one of the town’s main attractions. Plan to spend at least two hours here, more if you’re visiting during a garden event or simply love historic homes.
Tip: Tickets are available at the entrance, but pre-book online if you’re visiting during summer weekends or bank holidays.
Exploring Arundel Cathedral
Just up the hill from the castle, Arundel Cathedral is a peaceful spot with striking Gothic Revival architecture. Entry is free, and it’s worth stepping inside to admire the stained glass windows and vaulted ceilings.
If you’re lucky, you might catch an organ recital or choir rehearsal echoing through the space.
Stroll the River Arun and Swanbourne Lake
After exploring Arundel Castle and its gardens, we took a walk to the wetlands, but the area was closed. We headed over to Swanbourne Lake, a tranquil area with paddle boat rentals and shady walking paths. You can feed the ducks; they sell duck food for $.50. I just saw some baby ducks, and I got to feed them, which was fun. This part of Arundel feels especially relaxed and is perfect if you’re traveling with kids or just want a moment of quiet. You can loop around back into town or continue to Arundel Park, a vast green space for longer walks and scenic views.
Lingering on Tarrant Street
Antiques and Independent Shops
Tarrant Street is full of unusual independent finds. Step into the hidden courtyards and arcades, and you’ll discover shops such as The Old Printworks Shops, a characterful former Victorian printing works now home to specialist traders. Browse vintage-inspired clothing at RetroEsque, hunt for classic vinyl at A Ray Of Delight Collectors Records & CDs.
Other quirky stops include Isabella Josie at Sussex Hats for handcrafted millinery and haberdashery, and Dinky Donkey Delights for charming homeware and gifts. Together, these independent shops give Arundel its wonderfully eclectic, treasure-hunt feel.
Arundel is known for its antique scene. Don’t miss Nineveh House, a former Congregational chapel built in the 1830s that now houses an antiques market and craft shops, or Spencer Swaffer Antiques. Both offer a carefully curated selection in charming settings.
The Eagle Inn
Located on the charming Tarrant Street in the heart of Arundel, The Eagle Inn is a welcoming traditional pub with a lively local atmosphere. A favorite with residents and visitors alike, it offers a relaxed setting for enjoying drinks, food, and live entertainment, with regular support for local bands and musicians. Whether you’re stopping by after exploring Arundel Castle or looking for a friendly evening spot, The Eagle Inn captures the warm, community spirit of this historic West Sussex town.
The King’s Arms
Dating back to the 17th century, The King’s Arms offers a glimpse into Arundel’s past with its historic timber-framed character and traditional pub charm. Unlike the more lively, music-focused atmosphere of The Eagle Inn, The King’s Arms has a cosier, old-world feel, making it a great choice for those looking to enjoy a quiet pint, classic pub surroundings and a sense of history. With its welcoming interiors, real ales and traditional games, it’s a charming stop for visitors wanting to experience one of Arundel’s long-established inns.
Best Places to Eat When Exploring Arundel
Arundel punches above its weight when it comes to food. Whether you’re after a hearty pub lunch, artisan coffee, or a three-course dinner, there’s something for everyone.
Lulamae’s
Lulamae’s is a charming café loved for its homemade bakes, excellent coffee, and cheerful atmosphere that makes it a favorite breakfast and brunch stop.
Cockburn’s Tea Rooms During Our Time Exploring Arundel
We stopped by Cockburn’s Tea Rooms while exploring the charming streets of Arundel, and it was such a lovely little find. The tearoom has that cosy, quintessentially British atmosphere that instantly makes you want to settle in and relax with tea and cake. I ordered the Cranberry, Brie, and Bacon Toasted Sandwich, which was perfectly crisp and packed with flavor, alongside a wonderfully refreshing iced peach tea. Daniel went for the classic Ham and Cheese Toasted Sandwich, which looked equally delicious.
Of course, we couldn’t leave without trying one of the cakes, so Daniel and I shared a generous slice of Lemon Drizzle Cake — beautifully moist, zesty, and the perfect sweet finish to our lunch. Everything felt homemade and comforting, with friendly service that made the whole experience even more enjoyable. It’s definitely somewhere I’d happily return to for another afternoon treat in Arundel.
The Parsons Table
If you want to treat yourself to something special, The Parsons Table is one of the best restaurants in town. This modern British bistro focuses on seasonal ingredients and refined but unpretentious dishes. It’s a great place for a long, slow lunch.
Tip: Book a table in advance, especially on weekends.
The Black Horse
The Black Horse is a stylish gastropub with 12 rooms to stay when exploring Arundel. You’ll find The Black Horse combines elevated British pub classics with cozy interiors, attentive service, and a polished countryside feel.
Belinda’s Tearooms
This cozy tea room is ideal for a light lunch or an afternoon break. Stop in for a traditional cream tea, and they won’t disappoint.. Think warm scones, clotted cream, and jam served in a charming vintage setting.
La Campania for Dinner During Our Time Exploring Arundel
We were in town long enough to stop at La Campania for dinner. I had the pasta with garlic, olive oil, and chilies. Daniel had the bolognese. We both enjoyed the chance to relax and unwind after our time in Arundel. La Campania is a warm, family-run Italian restaurant in the heart of Arundel, serving homemade dishes inspired by the rustic cuisine of Italy’s Amalfi Coast region. Known for its fresh ingredients, weekly specials, and welcoming atmosphere, it’s a favorite for everything from wood-fired pizzas to classic pasta dishes and leisurely dinners with Italian wine. Italian food seems to be very popular in the UK.
The Arundel Taphouse
Arundel Taphouse is a laid-back brewery, bar, and coffee shop known for great craft beer, welcoming hospitality, and a strong local community feel. Run by Arundel Brewery and Gubbeans, the taphouse pairs its rotating beer selection with weekly street food pop-ups ranging from tacos and burgers to Greek and seafood dishes, making it a favorite spot to eat, drink, and unwind in West Sussex.
LG Cafe
Tucked away on Tarrant Street in the historic town of Arundel, LG Cafe is a delightfully quirky stop for coffee, cake, and a dose of nostalgia. Known for its bold pink interiors, floral touches, and unique punk-rock inspired décor, the café offers a memorable experience that feels unlike any traditional tearoom.
Visitors can enjoy a tempting selection of cakes, pastries, and creative drinks while soaking up the colourful atmosphere and retro music memorabilia. Whether you’re exploring Arundel Castle or wandering the charming streets, LG Cafe makes for a fun and unexpected place to pause and indulge. We didn’t eat there as we had already eaten, but we enjoyed stopping in because it was different, fun, and eclectic.
The Black Rabbit
The Black Rabbit is a scenic riverside pub and restaurant offering hearty British fare, local ales, and beautiful countryside views just outside Arundel.
The Steakist Bistro & Grill
The Steakist Bistro & Grill is a cozy bistro specializing in quality steaks, grilled favorites, and expertly crafted cocktails served in a welcoming, relaxed setting. Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Final Thoughts On Our Time Exploring Arundel
Our time in Arundel was a breath of fresh air during our fast-paced travels through Europe. It gave us a glimpse of traditional English life and just the right amount of adventure without feeling rushed. From the train ride through the countryside to the moment we stood atop the castle keep, everything about this visit was exactly what we needed.
If you’re looking for a peaceful escape from London that combines history, nature, and good food, Arundel is the perfect choice for a day trip or weekend getaway.
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