Arundel
Situated in the heart of West Sussex, this pretty market town is quintessentially English.
Despite being less than a 90 minute train ride away from the hustle and bustle of London, getting to Arundel is like travelling back in time - with Tudor buildings, open fields and a medieval castle that dominates the skyline. It’s easy to spend a day exploring the pretty, cobblestone streets lined with shops, art galleries and pubs.
We’re here to make Arundel days out easy - with our stress-free train travel you can arrive to this pretty market town feeling refreshed and relaxed.
Getting to Arundel
Hop on one of our trains and escape from bustling city across rolling countryside and into the pretty Victorian railway station in Arundel. With regular direct trains from London Victoria, the station is a leisurely 15-minute stroll to the town centre.
Getting to Arundel doesn’t need to cost the earth either. With one of our Railcards you could save up to 1/3 on rail travel. Check for cheaper Off-Peak tickets and start saving too, or if you and some friends are heading to Arundel for a few days’ break you could try our GroupSave ticket.
Things to do in Arundel
Situated in the Arun Valley, the pretty market town is home to Arundel Castle, the principle seat of the Dukes of Norfolk for over 850 years. With so many things to do in Arundel you’ll need to start planning your trip now.
Today this market town appears sleepy in comparison to its turbulent past, with much of the Norman and medieval castle being destroyed by Civil War when it was twice besieged, once by the Royalists and later by the Parliamentarians. Today visitors can explore Arundel Castle at their leisure. With sweeping views across the South Downs and the River Arun, the castle commands the landscape. Once you’ve explored the Duke of Norfolk’s lavish antique and art collections head for a spot of lunch at the restaurant - now housed in the old servants’ hall, or head to the former pantry, now a quaint coffee shop, for a slice of homemade cake. Whether you spend time wandering the well-tended gardens or simply admiring the fort’s soaring turrets, it’s a great family-friendly place to visit.
In the castle grounds you’ll find the Fitzalan Chapel featuring a fine 14th-century fresco and striking 15th-century Spanish crucifix. A place of calm reflection, it’s easy to lose track of time whilst sitting in quiet contemplation in one of the wooden pews.
Located at the foot of the castle’s mound is the impressive cathedral. Built in the Gothic Revival style visitors flock to Arundel Cathedral to admire its workmanship.
Arundel’s situation on the South Downs means that there are plenty of things to in Arundel that involve nature. The Jacobean-style Collector Earl’s Garden to the west of the church is a must-visit. The formal garden, created in 2008 is a nod to Thomas Howard, the 14th Earl of Arundel. So called the Collector Earl’s garden because he garnered the reputation as one of England’s first art collectors, acquiring works from many of the Renaissance greats including Mijtens and van Dyck.
The Wetland Centre provides visitors with a lovely day out, offering scenic spots to admire some of the region’s wildlife. Take a picnic and make a day of spotting kingfishers from the boat safari or feed the geese along the shoreline. Take a gentle stroll along the paths or simply head to the café and enjoy views across the wetland.
With so many relaxing things to do in Arundel why wait to escape the fast pace of modern life? Book your train ticket today and start getting back to nature.