Named after the River Arun, the lifeblood of this historic town, Arundel lies 49 miles southwest of London in rural West Sussex. Its skyline is dominated by an imposing castle, which towers above a cluster of quaint streets, one-story homes and grassy meadows. While the pace of life is relaxed, Arundel offers a variety of activities for history buffs, gardening enthusiasts and visitors who enjoy a bit of genteel sport.
The town’s crown jewel is Arundel Castle, one of the longest-inhabited manor houses in Britain and the seat of the Dukes of Norfolk and their ancestors for more than 850 years. Built in the 11th century by the Earl of Arundel, the edifice sits upon a hill overlooking the countryside and River Arun. Beautifully landscaped formal gardens surround the castle. Many different rooms, towers and gardens are open to the public for tours and special events.
Museums in and around Arundel illustrate numerous aspects of the region’s culture. The Amberley Museum and Heritage Centre explains the industrial history of southern England with demonstrations by craftsmen, a narrow-gauge railway and electrical exhibits. The new Arundel Museum offers educational programs about Sussex during the English Civil War, Victorian era and World War I. The unusual Weald and Downland Open Air Museum, in South Downs National Park, displays traditional English homes and buildings from the 13th to the 19th centuries.
For centuries, Arundel’s commerce and transportation depended on the River Arun. This scenic waterway and its wetlands now give locals and visitors opportunities for outdoor recreation. The Wildfowl and Wetlands Trust offers naturalist-led boat rides through a thriving nature reserve at the WWT Arundel Wetland Centre. Sportier types can rent kayaks or canoes for self-guided river runs. Kids and parents will enjoy a cruise on the Belle, Sussex River Charters’ 62-passenger riverboat. The leisurely jaunt flows by the serene Sussex countryside from Littlehampton to Arundel.
The Friends of Arundel Castle Cricket Club plays at one of the most striking sports fields in Britain – the grounds of the Norman-style castle. Built in 1895 by the 15th Duke of Norfolk, the facilities attract young players of all skill levels for instruction and matches. Spectators are welcome to lounge on the grass and cheer on the teams.
