by Emele Maisey

Created on: November 24, 2011   Last Updated: November 27, 2011

Set in 40 acres with stunning views overlooking the River Arun, in West Sussex, is the historical stately home and gardens of Arundel Castle.

This castle has been the home of the Dukes of Norfolk and their ancestors for almost 1,000 years, making it one of the longest inhabited country houses in England. It has been the family home of Lord Howard of Effingham, who along with Sir Francis Drake, repelled the Spanish Armada in 1588, Thomas Howard the 3rd Duke of Norfolk, Uncle to Anne Boleyn and Catherine Howard and the 4th Duke of Norfolk, cousin to Elizabeth I, who was beheaded for plotting to marry Mary, Queen of Scots.

The castle was founded in the 11th century by the 4th Earl of Arundel though the main castle building that stands today was built and restored between 1847-1917. Older features of the castle survive including the gatehouse from 1070 and the motte, a high artificial mound, from 1086, as well as the later Fitzalan Chapel and Keep. Visitors are able to climb the 131 steps to the top of the keep which gives stunning views over the River Arun, the sea, the town and over the Downs.

The castle rooms, including the library which is renowned for being one of the finest Gothic rooms in England, give you an insight into this grand historic family home and houses historical and religious collections including displays of armour, the original Van Dyke painting of Charles I and most impressively, some personal possessions of Mary, Queen of Scots including her prayer book and rosary beads.

The gardens at Arundel Castle are just beautiful and flower lovers are sure to spend an enjoyable time exploring the Jacobean formal garden, ornamental Victorian kitchen garden, rose garden and the small chapel garden. Visitors will come across a domed pergola, canal pond, a lean-to peach house and vinery, fountains and pavilions.

Opening Times.

Arundel Castle is open seasonally April-October, Tuesday to Sunday as well as Bank Holiday Mondays and during August it is open 7 days a week.

Opening times are staggered with the Chapel, Gardens and Grounds, Restaurant and Gift Shop open from 10.30-5.00pm. Access to the Castle Keep from 11am-4.30pm and the Castle Rooms 12.00-5.00pm. Last admission 4.00pm

Admission Fees.

Prices are staggered with Bronze, Silver, Gold and Gold Plus entry levels.

Adults: £7.50 - £16.00

Concessions: £7.50 - £13.50

Children: £7.50

The basic Bronze entry level, costing £7.50 for adults, gives you entry to the gardens and grounds, chapel, restaurant and shop. A silver pass gives you access to the Castle Keep as well as bronze level sites, a gold pass gives you access to the castle rooms, keep, chapel and grounds whilst a Gold Plus ticket gives you access to the castle bedrooms and all other areas open to the public.

Getting to Arundel Castle:

By Car - The castle is located in Arundel town centre, off of Mill Road. It is 4 miles north of Littlehapton and 20 miles west of Brighton, halfway between Chichester and Worthing, on the A27. Brown tourist road signs will direct you from these places.

Parking – A pay and display car park is located directly opposite the castle entrance. This costs £5 for a days parking.

By Train – Arundel Train Station is a 10-15minute walk away. It has a direct train service from London Victoria and intermediate stations including Gatwick Airport as well as services from Brighton, Worthing, Littlehampton, Bognor Regis, Chichester and Portsmouth.

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