Recently I took a weekend get away to Arundel. Now, I know what you’re thinking so let me address those thoughts. First of all, yes, this is the name of the town from Frozen (when said out loud) but I can confirm that this is not (unfortunately). Second, I know, you haven’t heard of it either. If you’re from the UK, it is on the way to Littlehampton beach. It is not on many peoples radars but it definitely should be. A lot of people were doing dry January for alcohol but I intentionally ended up doing dry January for travelling! I also got really poorly from the end of December /first half of January so I couldn’t do anything so I was so glad to finally explore!
How would I describe this town? Quirky. I never thought i’d say that to describe a little English town but it really was! From Burgers as big as your face to a rave ice cream shop, this town is perfect for a weekend get away. Adorned with a Castle in the middle of town, a cathedral, churches, antique shops combined with quirky ones, what more could you want? It’s quite small so definitely see-able in a day/weekend. I stayed in the Norfolk Arms Hotel right bang in the middle with a window view of the castle. We didn’t pay extra for it, it just worked out that way. (I paid for it myself, was not gifted or anything before the internet police come for me!)
The castle is only open from April – end of October so we didn’t go in, but please don’t let that stop you from going to Arundel. As they say, it’s much better to be below and have a view of the castle than in the castle and see nothing. When I was sitting in a café I over heard some locals say that the cafés are very overwhelming and busy in peak season (I’d say June, July & August) so best avoid that.
So, things that should be on your radar while visiting (that aren’t the castle!)?
The Burger Shop Co.
Burgers as big as your face just like I said up there! These were really good and maybe some of the best we’ve ever had. Definitely order the onion straws, you wont regret it!
The Kings Arms Pub
We didn’t go inside but they definitely got the memo about being Instagram worthy/photogenic. With multi coloured benches, fairy lights and bunting outside, who wouldn’t want to whip out their camera here?
Arundel Cathedral
We went in at sunset and there was absolutely no one around. The sheer size of the Cathedral shocked me at first! The town is so tiny! There is also a miniature view point in the street next to the Cathedral so if grand architecture is not your thing, it is worth heading up there for the view.
Nineveh House
Or as it shows on the outside, a church! You wouldn’t be mistaken if you walked past this little gem thinking it was another church you can’t enter, but you are so wrong! Inside is an absolute hub of activity of arts, antiques, paintings. I love finding hidden gems like this and I “treated” myself to a lucky dip bag for £1 and came out with an array of crystals and fossils definitely worth more. I think this place might be cash only but I could be wrong.
The shopping arcade
This little place is quite hidden so I forgive you if you miss it, I almost did twice! With independent businesses dotted down a small Victorian corridor, pop in for a visit if you like unique dresses, bags and there is even a Marvel/Harry Potter/Starwars/Doctor Who shop down there if that is your thing too.
Parlour
Remember that rave ice cream shop I spoke about? Yeah this is it! I didn’t go in this time but when I go back I am 100% going to! Their ice cream looks incredible and I’ve heard nothing but good things.
Also don’t miss the Picture Restoration Studio, you can’t go in (I don’t think) but just the outside is worth looking at! They have covered the shop front with trinkets, photos, ornaments and many other bits and bobs. I don’t think you can miss it as they play calming music until late in to the evening. They have another shop dotted around the town too which is picture worthy.
Have you ever been to Arundel? Do you know any similar places to here? Please let me know! I’m always looking for towns very similar. You can check out my guide to England too if you’re looking for more places like this!
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