Arundel, West
Steeped in history, Arundel is one of the jewels of the South Downs. Many people know this West Sussex town, on the River Arun, for its imposing castle and majestic cathedral, but when you’re in that property finder frame of mind, you need a wider view.
Property Searching in Arundel
So when it comes to property searching in Arundel, what’s the appeal? Well, typically, London Victoria is just over 90 minutes away by train, and Gatwick just under an hour. Brighton is around 90 minutes away, while those who like quieter seaside resorts can reach Bognor and Littlehampton in about 25 minutes. Nearby Chichester, less than 30 minutes away by train or 25 minutes by car, offers culture and retail therapy.
Not that Arundel itself lacks culture or shops – far from it. Buying agents can reassure you that the town is packed with independent, quirky retailers. There are florists and independent bookshops; bridal boutiques and jewelers; and many one-of-a-kind specialists. You’ll find Japanese obi goods, furniture, fabrics, outdoor gear, tattooists, children’s clothes boutiques and pianos. There’s even a dedicated cane and walking stick shop. Stroll around the vintage and antique shops, warehouse, and markets; pick up a chic outfit at one of the classic clothes boutiques; or indulge your taste for original arts and crafts at one of the many galleries and artisan workshops. And should you discover that Old Master you’ve always craved, Arundel has one of the finest fine-art restorers you could find.
Foodies’ Corner
It’s a hungry business, a successful property search, and once you’ve worked up an appetite, take a breather in one of the charming tea shops, eclectic coffee houses, or numerous hospitable beer gardens, many with riverside views. With coaching inns, traditional pubs and a variety of eateries, including a medieval themed restaurant, you’ll not go hungry or thirsty here. Farmers’ markets are held on the 3rd Saturday morning of each month, and offer the very best locally grown, created and reared produce.
Cultural Considerations for Your Property Search
Arundel has plenty going on throughout the year for all tastes, an important consideration in any property search. At Christmas-time, Arundel by Candlelight celebrates the magical spirit of the season. Those eager for drama can enjoy year-round performances from one of two resident theatre companies. And while the Jailhouse was once a Georgian to Victorian House of Correction, it now hosts blues nights, comedy club evenings, and even the odd murder mystery night. During the day, when the Jailhouse is a visitor attraction, you might even encounter a ghost or two – paranormal groups regularly frequent the location.
You could also catch a Shakespeare play in the castle gardens during the well-established Arundel Festival, one of the largest volunteer and charity run events in England. From the middle to the end of August, many stunning period homes in the town are open, while the streets fill with colour, music, food, special events, theatre and art.
You can’t escape the Castle, though. Arundel Castle is an exceptionally fine example of Gothic Victorian architecture. Original medieval features include the Barbican, the Gatehouse and the Norman Keep, but the building was remodeled extensively from the 1870s to the 1980s. The Castle has long been associated with the Dukes of Norfolk – including the uncle of Anne Boleyn and Catherine Howard. Both married Henry VIII; both met untimely ends.
Buying Agent Overview
For the pragmatically minded, Arundel has its own hospital, the Arundel & District Hospital, with the nearest A&E in Chichester. Buying agents can also confirm there are many excellent schools in the town, primary and secondary. The elegant Roman Catholic cathedral is still a place of worship: commissioned in 1868, it was designed by architect Joseph Hansom, who is famous for his hansom cab design. Our Arundel property finder will help you locate your perfect “forever home” or investment property amongst the Victorian flint and Georgian buildings in the centre, or newer homes on the outskirts.
Picture postcard pretty Arundel is also an excellent base to explore local attractions like the South Downs National Park, Arundel Wetland Centre, Bignor Roman Villa, Arundel Museum, the Amberley Museum and Heritage Centre and the Weald & Downland Living Museum.
And if all that hasn’t convinced you to consider Arundel for your next property buying venture, the town is in one of the sunniest parts of England – with an average of over 150 hours of sunshine every month, not just in summer, but all year round.