Visit Arundel, South Downs

Arundel tourist information

Arundel is a traditional market town on the River Arun, at the southern edge of the South Downs National Park, in West Sussex to the north of Littlehampton and east of Chichester.

The town has a bustling centre with numerous specialised and antique shops, cafes and restaurants and all facilities including several hotels.

Along with the castle, it is the cathedral that dominates the town. Note that Arundel cathedral was built in the second half of the 19th century, despite its appearance, especially around and above the main entrance, which mimics the gothic style used in France in medieval times.

Arundel Castle

The town is best known as being home to an important Norman stronghold - Arundel castle - which overlooks the town. Dating from 1068, the castle suffered substantial damage in the middle of the 17th century during the English Civil War has been extensively remodelled and renovated since, especially during the 18th-19th centuries. In most places the older and newer parts can be clearly distinguished, with the original fort standing on a raised mound within the current structure.

Arundel castle is open to the public, with the richly furnished interior presenting a very wide variety of items collected over the history of the castle - furniture, paintings, tapestries, ornaments. The gardens are also very lovely and well maintained following extensive works in recent years and include formal and walled areas, water features etc

The castle grounds are also home to a well known cricket pitch.