Arundel is a market town rich in history and culture, spanning the River Arun between the magnificent South Downs and the Sussex coastline, just waiting to be discovered.

Location: Only 90 minutes from London by train, Arundel lies in the heart of rural West Sussex. The town is also prominently placed at the junction of the main south coast route (A27) and the London road (A29).

A short distance from the nearby coastal towns of Littlehampton and Bognor Regis, Arundel is also within easy reach of the West Sussex market towns of Chichester, Petworth and Midhurst.

Architecture: The Norman Castle and Gothic Cathedral dominate Arundel's majestic skyline and tower above the surrounding ancient woodland and downland offering a striking focal point, from all directions, to the town.

The town centre streets are lined with Georgian and Victorian buildings housing tea-shops, restaurants, galleries and shops, all within easy walking distance of each other.

Shopping, Eating and Drinking: There is a rich variety of thriving, independent retailers, all giving a highly individual welcome. The town has become famous not only for its antique shops but also for its wide range of contemporary shops and galleries.

Arundel's shops include contemporary art, antiques, homeware, gifts, a great delicatessen, organic food, ladies' designer clothing, jewellery, walking sticks, old model vehicles, Teddy bears, Britain's only marble collectors' shop and even an expedition outfitters who claim to have the best choice of walking boots in Northern Europe!

Arundel has many restaurants to choose from including Chinese, Indian, Italian and French with many ingredients sourced locally from fruit and vegetables to Selsey lobsters.

Many of the pubs and contemporary wine bars offer great food and a friendly welcome.

There is also a lively farmers' market in the centre of town selling a variety of local fresh produce. The market is on the third Saturday of every month.

Since 2004 Arundel has been a "Fair Trade" town by making a commitment to supporting Fairtrade and using products with the FAIRTRADE Mark

Local Attractions: Arundel Castle and Gardens and Cathedral of Our Lady and St Philip Howard offer plenty of history to explore.

You can find out more about the town's colourful and lively past at the Arundel Museum History Store or take a great walk around the town streets at your own pace on your very own Arundel Audio historical tour. This is available to hire from the Visitor Information Centre.

If the culture and shopping were not enough, there are also plenty of attractions and leisure pursuits in and around Arundel.

The best way to relax and enjoy the river is on a River Arun Cruise from the Arundel Boat Yard. As the River Arun winds its way around the town you will see it is a magnet for wildlife.

The Arundel Wetland Centre, overlooked by the historic Arundel Castle skyline attracts many wild birds to the lakes, reed beds and woodland areas.

For those that love the water, take a dip in the Arundel Lido - the most scenic open air heated swimming pool in Britain (open summer only) or hire a rowing boat on Swanbourne Lake in Arundel Park.

At Mill Road Leisure & Sports Park there is more to do on dry land with putting greens and tennis courts to hire.

Beautiful walks nearby include the River Arun, Arundel Park and the South Downs. All walk details can be found at the Visitor Information Centre.

For fishing enthusiasts, there is fishing on the River Arun and trout fishing on four spring-fed lakes at Chalk Springs Fishery. Arundel Farm Riding & Driving Centre offers riding in the countryside for experienced accompanied riders or lessons if required.

Accommodation: Arundel has many options for the overnight visitor including B&B's, boutique hotels, pubs with rooms, period style and larger hotels for group bookings.

See our where to stay page for more information on Quality Assessed Accommodation or contact the Visitor Information Centre for friendly professional assistance from the local experts.

Culture, Markets, Festivals and other events in Arundel: Almost every month there is something happening in Arundel whether it is a play, up at the Priory Playhouse or the Jazz club at the Victoria Institute; cinema in the Town Hall; a classical concert in St Nicholas Church or Cathedral or a new art exhibition in one of the many galleries.

In addition, our two main attractions, Arundel Castle and the Arundel Wetland Centre, have their own series of events throughout the year including car rallies, medieval jousting and nature walks.

Contact the Visitor Information Centre on 01903 882268

More information on Arundel can be found on these sites www.arundel.org.uk and www.arundeltowncouncil.gov.uk