Attractions and Places To See around Arundel - Top 20

Arundel is rich in history. You can visit the magnificent Arundel Castle, the seat of the Duke of Norfolk, which features extensive grounds, beautiful gardens, and lavish staterooms. The stunning Arundel Cathedral, a 19th-century Neo-Gothic structure, stands proudly at the town's highest point. Other notable historical sites include the 14th-century St Nicholas Church, the ruins of Blackfriars Dominican Priory, and the distinctive Hiorne Tower within Arundel Park.

The Arundel area offers abundant natural beauty. Explore Arundel Park, a 330-acre parkland with steep valleys and great views, or take a walk around Swanbourne Lake, a historic lake perfect for birdwatching or boat hire. The River Arun flows through the town, offering scenic riverside walks. For expansive views, visit Bignor Hill summit, which provides far-reaching vistas over the South Downs. The Graffham Down Nature Reserve also offers brilliant views over rolling agricultural countryside.

Yes, the area has connections to ancient history. Bignor Hill summit features a Roman road sign pointing towards ancient cities like Londinium and Noviomagus Reginorum, as it lies on an intersection of the ancient Roman road known as Stane Street. The path leading up to Halnaker Windmill also follows parts of the old Roman Road, Stane Street.

For wildlife enthusiasts, the WWT Arundel Wetland Centre is a must-visit. This 65-acre nature reserve is a haven for various bird species, including goosanders and reed warblers, and you might even spot water voles from a boat safari. The Burton Mill Pond and Chingford Ponds Local Nature Reserve are also nationally important for their wetland habitats, rare plants, birdlife, and invertebrate populations.

Arundel is a fantastic base for hiking. You can find numerous trails, including the moderate Monarch's Way and River Arun Circular, or easier options like the Swanbourne Lake loop via Arundel Cathedral. For more challenging routes, consider the Arundel to Amberley loop. Many trails offer views of the South Downs National Park. You can find more details and routes in the Hiking around Arundel guide.

Absolutely. Arundel offers a variety of cycling routes. Road cyclists can enjoy easy loops like the Arundel Cathedral – Arundel Town Centre loop or longer moderate rides such as the River Arun Pedestrian Bridge – Arundel Town Centre loop. Mountain bikers have options like the moderate Arundel, East Dean Woods and the River Arun loop or easier trails like the View of Arundel Castle – The Black Rabbit Pub loop. Explore more in the Road Cycling Routes around Arundel and MTB Trails around Arundel guides.

Families visiting Arundel have several options. The WWT Arundel Wetland Centre is excellent for all ages, offering boat safaris and opportunities to hand-feed geese. A walk around Swanbourne Lake is also pleasant, with boat hire available. During warmer months, the Arundel Lido, the only remaining lido in West Sussex, provides outdoor swimming fun. Many of the easier walking trails, such as those around Swanbourne Lake, are also suitable for families.

For impressive vistas, head to Hiorne Tower, an impressive 19th-century folly offering excellent vantage points over the surrounding countryside. Halnaker Windmill provides fantastic 360-degree views from the top of its hill. Bignor Hill summit is another prominent viewpoint on the South Downs Way, rewarding climbers with far-reaching views.

Arundel offers attractions year-round, but specific times highlight different aspects. The Arundel Tulip Festival at the castle, typically in April, showcases over 130 varieties of tulips. The town also hosts the Arundel Arts Festival and Arundel Food Festival throughout the year. Autumn is particularly special for walks around Halnaker Windmill, especially through the famous Halnaker Tree Tunnel, which looks fantastic on sunny days.

Yes, Arundel hosts various cultural events. The Arundel Festival is a major highlight, encompassing arts and other celebrations. The Arundel Food Festival is another popular event for culinary enthusiasts. Additionally, regular farmers' markets are held on the third Saturday of each month, offering local produce and a vibrant atmosphere.

Yes, Arundel is home to the Arundel Lido, which is the only remaining lido in West Sussex. It offers outdoor swimming, particularly enjoyable during the summer months, providing a refreshing experience in a historic setting.

Beyond the main landmarks, consider visiting the Burton Mill Pond and Mill, an atmospheric hammer pond and holding pond in the South Downs National Park, important for its wetland habitats. A short journey from Arundel, Amberley Museum offers 36 acres to explore with over 40 exhibits showcasing the South's working past, providing a unique historical insight.