Hidden town one hour from London with beautiful countryside, a castle and a lido

South East England is home to some truly charming seaside spots and quaint villages, but one delightful gem that often goes unnoticed is Arundel, West Sussex. This picture-perfect historic town is so much more than just a postcard destination; it's a vibrant piece of English heritage waiting to be explored. Whether you're wandering through the castle's historic halls, meandering along hidden garden trails, or enjoying a lovely cup of tea in a cosy 15th-century café, each corner reveals its own unique tales of history.

The majestic castle, which has served as the ancestral seat of the Duke of Norfolk for over 850 years, proudly towers over Arundel's skyline. Yet, this engaging market town has so much more to offer than what meets the eye. Stroll along its cobbled streets, where charming half-timber houses, delightful antique shops, and quaint tea rooms create a warm and inviting atmosphere—all just 90 minutes from London.

The town exudes old-world allure, which is clear to see as you stroll from Arundel train station to the high street, which is about a 15-minute walk. Passing the rolling fields of the South Downs to your right, the cathedral and castle stand tall in the distance as you approach the bridge over the River Arun that runs through the town.

Before you reach any of the major attractions, you pass the family-friendly Lido that boasts two outdoor swimming pools and a unique medieval backdrop; you can see the castle turrets as you swim.

Arundel Lido was built in 1960 to celebrate the 21st birthday of the 16th Duke of Norfolk's eldest daughter, Lady Anne. After a brief closure in 2004, the 25-meter outdoor heated pool and paddling pools were reopened by the Arundel and Downland Community Leisure Trust.

You'll find more than pools there. The lido is surrounded by lawns and benches and can be enjoyed by visitors from May to September.

Heading over the bridge and into the town centre, a quirky post office stands on the corner of the main street that goes all the way up the hill, lined by castle walls.

Arundel's community spirit shines through its local establishments. Independent boutiques and galleries showcase the talents of local artisans. The town is a haven for antique hunters with a high concentration of shops offering vintage furniture, rare books, and art.

For an authentic cafe experience, visit Lulamae's, Mott & Bailey or Juniper. Those who love cakes and sweet treats must visit LG Cafe for tea and cake with a modern twist.

The King's Arms is a great pub option, and The Swan Hotel is renowned for its hospitality when hosting overnight guests and special events.

The Cathedral Church of Our Lady and St Philip Howard is a stunning neo-Gothic structure built in 1873. Its ornate interior, vaulted ceilings and vibrant stained glass are worth a visit while you're in the town.

The castle is a must-see when in Arundel. A masterpiece of medieval and Victorian architecture, it boasts grand halls, fine art collections, and manicured gardens that rival any stately home.

The annual Tulip Festival is held in spring, where over 100,000 bulbs burst into bloom.

For those seeking an outdoor adventure, Swanbourne Lake is a tranquil gem nestled beneath the castle grounds. Walk right instead of going up the main high street and follow the wide road that's lined with towering trees.

Rent a rowing boat, enjoy a peaceful lakeside walk, or simply sit and soak up the peace and quiet of the surrounding countryside. Miles of scenic walking routes around Arundel connect the town to the South Downs Way and nearby villages—perfect for ramblers, cyclists, and nature fiends.

Be sure to visit Swanbourne Lodge Tea Room for refreshments or wander to the nearby Black Rabbit for some pub grub or a riverside drink.

The town is a year-round destination, but it's especially good in summer. The Arundel Festival of the Arts is a vibrant celebration of culture, community and creativity.

In 2025, the festival will run from August 15 to Monday, August 25. The 10-day event offers a diverse array of activities and performances that reflect the town's rich heritage and artistic spirit.

It kicks off with a ticketed music festival, followed by the Dragon Boat Race on the River Arun. Street entertainment, theatre, and visual arts are also included in the event.