A quirky Arundel walking tour
Duration: Two and a half to three hours
Difficulty: Moderate
Join Kathryn on a circular walk through the historic town of Arundel, the rolling hills of the South Downs and back along the river bank with views across the fields of the cathedral and castle.
From £25 per person (available on request)
All bookings are made through Airbnb Experiences. If you do not see a date or time that suits you, please do get in touch, KathrynSussexWalks@gmail.com.
Dogs are welcome but advanced notice is appreciated.
What to bring
- Water
- Wet weather gear
- Camera
- Sensible walking shoes (part of the path is quite rough and can be muddy)
Make a weekend of it!
Need a break? Why not take a weekend or mid-week break?. You’ll find a searchable map of accommodation in and around Arundel at the bottom of this page.
This 4-mile circular walk explores the ancient town of Arundel, with its cathedral and 13th-century castle, as well as the surrounding countryside and parkland in the South Downs National Park.
Our walk starts with an introduction to Arundel walking uphill along cobbled streets and into the parklands of the castle. Along the way, I’ll point out the most interesting and oldest buildings, my favourite quirky independent shops, and the best places to eat and drink, mixed up with a smattering of local history.
Did you know? There are over 200 Listed Buildings in Arundel. These are buildings or structures deemed to be of special architectural or historic interest.
Passing an impressive folly, we’ll look out from a hilltop with views of the South Downs and a beautiful valley, that’s particularly stunning in autumn, before continuing down along a gentle slope down through the trees and around a lake. Along the way, I’ll share local folktales about the giant that once lived in the Arundel Castle and the dragon that once swam the River Arun.
If you would like to feed the ducks and swans, please do not bring bread. Instead, bring something that is healthier for them such as corn or peas (unfrozen but no need to cook), seeds, oats, rice or lettuce.
Our route then leads us along the banks of the river (while keeping a watchful eye out for the dragon) as it meanders through the countryside leading us back to the heart of Arundel in time for lunch.
By the end of our walk, you’ll know exactly where to go to find the best food and drink and the finest Sussex produce including local cheeses, pies and beer. You’ll also gain a fascinating insight into the people of Sussex, our traditions and folklore.
You’ll have the afternoon free to explore more of the town or to visit the castle and its gardens (payable locally).
Usually, this walk occurs on a Sunday morning but just get in touch via my email KathrynSusseWalks@gmail.com, if you’d like a walk on a different day or time shown in my booking calendar.
I also offer a shorter self-guided treasure trail around Arundel town centre as well as a guided walk, Halnaker Tree Tunnel and Windmill Walk, a 15-minute drive from Arundel.
Where to stay in Arundel
Hello, I’m the writer, photographer, and walking guide, behind Sussex Walks. I was born in West sussex and have lived here all my life (apart from a few years in Bristol while at university studying Zoology, Botany and Psychology).
As well as leading guided walks, I am a complimentary therapist, art teacher and travel blogger. I love having this variety in my work and being able to share all my passions with others.