Arundel is a town in West Sussex, Southern England that is captivating and beautiful. Nestled amongst a steep valley, this stunning historic town boasts over one thousand years of heritage.
Arundel is an enchanting town that boasts a Gothic cathedral and a medieval castle. It is a charming town with many independent businesses, tea rooms and beautiful nature walks.
There are many things to do in Arundel to help you soak up its wonder and beauty. It is a gateway town to the South Downs, with good access links via road and rail.
These great 21 things to do in Arundel and nearby are a good starting point for exploring this wonderful town.
Things to do in Arundel
Arundel Castle
Arundel Castle was established in the 11th century – posing a medieval stronghold. It has since been remodelled and restored having been damaged in the civil war.
Arundel Castle is stunning. Although it does cost to enter, the tickets are graded depending on access. This is one of our top things to do in Arundel when visiting.
We have visited the castle gardens, which are exquisite and excellently designed, as to be expected for the grounds of a grand castle.
Arundel Castle runs many events throughout its open season, such as the stunning Tulip Festival.
Where: Arundel Castle, Arundel, West Sussex, BN18 9AB
Arundel Cathedral
Arundel Cathedral is another beautiful structure within the Arundel skyline. There is no fee to enter and you can enjoy a sense of serenity once inside.
The architecture is beautiful and there is a timetable of masses throughout the week. The outside building is just as pleasing to enjoy if you do not wish to enter.
It is possible to access Arundel Cathedral easily from the town, however it is also accessible via a circular walk from Swanbourne Lake.
Where: Arundel Catherdral, London Rd, Arundel BN18 9AY
WWT Arundel Wetland Centre
The Arundel Wetland Centre is the perfect day out for nature lovers. Set alongside the River Arun, it is home to over 50 species of worldwide waterfowl, including pelicans, egrets, kingfishers and birds of prey.
WWT Arundel Wetlands Centre is a conservation charity, aiming to preserve the vital ecosystem that is the wetlands, and the many species that belong here.
Enjoy the multiple bird hides throughout the expansive site, where you can quietly observe the birds and ducks. There are many activities for children throughout the year such as pond dipping.
There is a wonderful boat safari, gently guiding you through the reeds of the wetlands. The staff here are accommodating and knowledgeable, making it a worthwhile experience.
You may even glimpse a view of Arundel Castle during your visit. We caught a glimpse of some highland cows, which have been brought in to help maintain some grassy areas.
There is on-site parking and a cafe with stunning views where you can refresh before further exploration.
Where: Mill Road, Arundel, BN18 9PB
Arundel Walking Tours
Arundel Walking Tours is run by a knowledgeable local, Martin. He portrays the history and stories surrounding Arundel with humour and in an interesting way.
This walking tour is not to be missed, whether you are a tourist or a local! If you think you have run out of things to do in Arundel, give this walking tour a go and you will not be disappointed.
You can find out more by visiting Destination Arundel.
Arundel Museum
Arundel Museum is the main tourist point for the town. The museum hosts a collection of fossils and exhibits about the prehistory of Arundel.
There are lots of interesting displays about the fascinating history of the town, including a model of the town itself.
There is a children’s area, with dressing up and a children’s trail to enjoy. There is a cafe and seating area on site additionally.
It opens from 10:00-16:00 every day and hosts a range of events throughout the year.
Where: Mill Road, Arundel, BN18 9PA
Swanbourne Lake
Swanbourne Lake offers a beautiful circular walk. The water in this lake is a stunning aqua colour. There is a cafe at the start of the walk if you fancy grabbing a coffee before your walk.
There is a paddle boat hire for approximately £5 per head for 30 minutes. This is a fun thing to do in Arundel, and you can grab a bag of duck food from the cafe to feed the ducks in the pond, or while you are out on the paddle boat.
Visiting Swanbourne Lake and its surrounding walk is one of our favourite things to do in Arundel with kids.
We sometimes hike up the side hill to visit Hiorne Tower, which brings out the back of the town by Fauna Brewing and then onto the Cathedral.
Where: Swanbourne Lake, Mill Road, Arundel, BN18 9PA
Antique and Indie Shopping
There are some great independent and antique shops in Arundel. I highly recommend having a potter down the delightful High Street and Tarrant Street, where there are some hidden gems.
Twice as Nice sells interesting preloved painted furniture, vintage items, antiques and home decor.
Where: 21e High St, Arundel BN18 9AD
Betulas Antiques and Collectables sells interesting items such as coins, stamps, paintings, glass, ceramics, film posters, maps, models, postcards, vintage, retro, commemorative, and more.
Where: 4 Queen St, Arundel BN18 9JG
The Old Printworks is a fascinating building which houses lots of independent businesses selling wonderful things such as bespoke hats, crafts, records, frames, and beautiful clothing.
Where: 1, Old Printing House Square, Arundel BN18 9JH
Arundel Outdoor Lido
Arundel Lido offers outdoor swimming with heated pools, with a stunning view. Enjoy a gorgeous swim with the view of Arundel Castle in the background.
There are sun loungers and a play area for children for nicer days. Keep an eye out for various events such as coffee mornings, sound baths, running clubs and family days.
Where: Queen St, Arundel BN18 9JG
Afternoon Tea In Arundel
Arundel is the perfect, quintessential British town to enjoy afternoon tea or high tea.
Cockburns Tea Rooms and Confectioners offers a traditional afternoon tea for £45 per person. This is a beautiful, old-fashioned tea room with traditional china. The scones are delicious, as is the cream tea.
Where: 43 High Street, Arundel BN18 9AG
Amberley Castle Hotel offers a timeless and elegant experience. Enjoy a luxurious afternoon tea with excellent service, in the beautiful backdrop of the 900-year-old castle.
Although this is slightly outside of the main town Arundel, it is certainly worth travelling that bit further for an indulgent experience. Prices start at £50 per person.
Where: Amberley Castle, Arundel, BN18 9LT
Swanbourne Lodge Tea Room is a grade II listed building, offering a stunning view of the lake. The afternoon tea here is more affordable costing approximately £16 per person.
Where: Swanbourne Lodge Team Room, Mill Road, Arundel, BN18 9PA
Arundel Brewery
Arundel Brewery is an award-winning, local, family-run independent business. They have been proudly crafting the finest beers since 1992.
The Brewhouse Project was set up to allow customers to taste the beer on site, whilst also giving the option of freshly cooked foods with options for brunch, lunch, dinners and Sunday roasts.
Keep an eye out for its rolling timetable of events throughout the year.
Where: The Brewhouse Project, Lyminster Road, Arundel, West Sussex, BN17 7QQ
Black Rabbit Pub
The Black Rabbit Pub is a cosy, classic country pub, nestled along the River Arun. This charming pub offers stunning views of the wetlands.
It offers delicious Sunday Roasts and other pub classics. Keep an eye out for authentic Harry Potter memorabilia indoors!
This is a great option after a walk around Swanbourne Lake – but it is always best to book ahead, especially on the weekends, as it is a popular spot.
Where: Mill Road, Offham, Arundel, West Sussex, BN18 9PB
Kim’s Bookshop
This 18th-century historic building has been home to books since the 1960’s. This whimsical bookstore is a book lovers’ dream with three floors of classic and contemporary literature.
The narrow staircases add to the magic and cosiness of visiting this store. It is well worth a visit when in Arundel.
Where: 10 High Street, Arundel, BN18 9AB
Arundel Contemporary
Arundel Contemporary Gallery is an independent gallery, showcasing and celebrating both British and independent artists. It is located in the heart of Arundel and is a must-see.
The gallery is housed in a grade II listed building, spanning five exhibition spaces across two floors. The exhibitions here are of exceptional high quality, all curated beautifully and thoughtfully.
Where: 2 Maltravers Street, Arundel, BN18 9AP
Arundel Jailhouse
Arundel Jailhouse is a unique venue hosting a range of events. From comedy, murder mystery, jazz nights.
This fascinating building was built in 1836 to house convicted prisoners. It is a popular destination for ghost hunters, many believing there is paranormal activity here.
http://www.arundeljailhouse.co.uk
Where: The Undercroft, Maltravers Street, Arundel, BN18 9AP
Digby Wines
Digby’s Tasting Rooms offers elegant wine-tasting experiences. Enjoy these award-winning homegrown wines, whilst learning of Digby’s rich history and winemaking methods.
The venue offers special events such as blending masterclasses, vertical tastings and fizz-based cocktail-making parties.
Where: 55-57 High Street, Arundel, West Sussex, BN18 9AJ
Things To Do Near Arundel
Let’s Retreat
Escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life, is Let’s Retreat’s motto. Retreat into a cosy yurt and enjoy some peace and grounding with a yoga or pilates class.
Classes run from Tuesday – Saturday, with mixed levels welcome. They also run a beautiful sunrise yoga class.
There is an emphasis on promoting both physical and mental well-being here. Also available are Thai yoga massage and other well-being treatments.
Where: Decoy Lane, Angmering, West Sussex, BN18 9QA
Parham House and Gardens
Parham House and Gardens offers an insight into a stunning, Elizabethan home. Nestled at the foot of the South Downs, this family home is almost frozen in time.
The four-acre, walled gardens are a delight to explore. Parham House is home to an exquisite collection of historic paintings, and textiles donning beautiful tapestry and furniture.
The house and gardens are usually open to explore between March and October, booking is advised.
Where: Parham House & Gardens, Pulborough, West Sussex RH20 4HS. If using a sat nav, please use this postcode: RH20 4HR
Roebuck Estates
Nestled in the peaceful Sussex countryside, Roebuck Estate is famed for its vintage sparkling wines.
The name is inspired by wild deer often roaming the estate. The vineyard and estate are known to be calm and tranquil.
Roebuck Estates offers great service on their tours and picture-perfect pizza nights, where you can enjoy stunning views, delectable wine and fresh rustic pizza.
Where: Upperton Farm, Petworth GU28 0RD
Bignor Roman Villa
It is believed that Bignor Roman Villa was built circa 190 AD. The staff here are very knowledgeable and helpful.
Bignor Roman Villa is home to a fascinating slice of ancient Roman history. The mosaics are preserved in excellent condition.
Although the site is small it is still certainly worth a visit for this brilliant, educational and informative day.
Events run on-site throughout the year, such as the “Maize Maze” with an array of golden sunflowers and picking patches.
Where: Bignor, Pulborough RH20 1PH
Amberley Museum
The Amberley Museum is an excellent family day out for all ages. This extensive museum is both interactive and interesting.
This museum is packed with exhibits of both historical and working exhibitions. We particularly enjoyed the live electricity exhibition which was excellent!
The volunteers on-site are super helpful for guidance and advice. There is also a mini train ride and bus that transports visitors around the museum if required.
There is a cafe located on-site for hot food and drinks, although we opted to bring a picnic.
Also on site is a small playground the kids enjoyed.
Various events are running throughout the year. We went on half term and there were crafting activities on site.
This is one of our favourite things to do in Arundel as a family of four.
Where: New Barn Road, Amberley, Arundel, BN18 9LT
Aldingbourne Country Centre
Aldingbourne Country Centre is a wonderful social initiative, supporting those with autism and learning disabilities.
If you are set to be out of the house all day with your kids, then this is a good choice. Opening at 10:00 and closing at 16:00 – we have often spent full days here.
There is a wide variety of activities here ranging from woodland play area/walk, soft play, water play, crazy golf, mini go-karting, maze, ride on tractors and of course the mini farm.
My kids are obsessed with the giant indoor slide here. We loved the little “Book Nook”, which is a cosy corner with tens of books to choose from – the perfect quiet spot to kick back, especially if emotions are getting high with little ones.
There is often a rolling timetable of events such as goat grooming and feeding alpacas. They are also extending the site to include a little village for autumn 2024!
You don’t have to come here with kids, as popping by for lunch all contribute to this great charity.
Address: Aldingbourne Country Centre, Blackmill Lane, Chichester, PO18 0JP
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