Castle In the Air

X Fauna Brewery

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Walk 3.5 hrs (13.7km)

Total Ascent 239 m

Highest Point 118 m

Welcome to this Signature Hike

For this extra special hike, we have teamed up with Fauna Brewery, a brewery that uses the sale of its beers to fund the conservation of endangered animals. Phil F Howard, founder of Fauna, has curated this excellent hike ending at the brewery, a stone’s throw from Arundel castle.

Read the infomation below to learn more about your walk before you head off.

The Brewery is open Thursday – Sunday.

Ready to walk?

Be sure to download your PDF guide for the walk and make sure you have the OS maps app downloaded.

Or email yourself the guide:

Before you start

Here’s 3 important things you need to know before you head off:

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Save This Guide

Save the PDF guide on your device that you’re going to use on the walk. (This contains all the handy information, from how to get there, points of interest and pubs, taxis etc).

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Download OS Map App

This is how you will navigate your way around the route. The link for the route is in this guide and will take you to the OS Maps app.

Click here for Apple
Click here for Android

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Battery

Make sure you have plenty of battery. We hope you have a great walk.

The Curator Phil Howard

Meet the Curator

Phil was born in Sussex and lived in Arundel and the surrounding area for nearly his whole life. He has always had a passion for wildlife and conservation. He started a small petting Zoo in Arundel at the age of 15, this venture sadly failed but led him to study Zoology at university. After his studies he trained to become a safari guide in Botswana, on his return to the UK he set up Fauna Brewing.

“At Fauna Brewing, we are mad about beer and crazy for conservation. Our beers are brewed with purpose. We’re not just here to make great beer, that’s why we choose a different wildlife conservation cause to support for every beer that we brew. We’re excited to share an ever growing range of products that are supporting wildlife at home in the south downs. Visit our Taproom enroute to see the beginnings of our wildflower meadow.”

Adventure Summary

South Downs

As your train trundles through London suburbia, it is difficult to imagine that you are less than 90 minutes away from the heart of the South Downs. River walking, hill cresting, sea views, castle views, historic buildings, cafés and a visit to Fauna Brewery… what more could you possibly want from a day out of the city?

It’s worth deciding your priorities before you step off the train. It’s a four hour hike but there are plenty of enticing distractions along the way. A coffee at the Riverside Café early on, a wander around Arundel Cathedral, the Castle, the pizza and beer on offer at Fauna, a perusal of some of Arundel’s shops and galleries – these are all possibilities.

This is a hike that easily fits into one day and can be enjoyed at any time of year. There’s always the choice to stretch out your adventure with an overnight stay in Arundel. Enjoy stunning scenery and birdlife and a beautiful country town and castle, all easily accessible by train from London.

Hike Highlights

Fauna Brewery

Enjoy a drink at Fauna Brewery to save endagered animals!

Arundel Castle

One of the most impressive castles in the UK and open to the public for a visit.

River Arun

Walking alongside the flowing waters with the birds flying past is the perfect antidote for busy London life!

By Train
The walk starts and ends at Arudel station. Trains to Arundel Station run from London Victoria on Southern Railway and take 1hr 30mins.

By Car
Parking in Arundel can be tricky with so many visitors to the castle but there are 3 options available. There is a large car park at Arundel Station (BN18 9JL) which is further out and might help you avoid traffic on busy days. Mill Road Car Park is close to the center and perfect for mid week visits (BN18 9PA). Then there is the Lido car park that is inbetween (BN18 9JG).

Sometimes, we can get so caught up in reaching our destination that we forget to take in our surroundings. When in fact, some of the best moments on a walk are the ones spent not walking. It is not until you stop and look a little closer, that you truly see the magic of where you are.
Our hikes are not about how fast you walk, but about how much you take in. We share these beautiful trails with an abundance of wildlife and there’s always something to marvel at – so long as you take the time to look around.

After your walk reward yourself and help out endagered animals with a free drink from Fauna Brewery, what a saint! The pizza is highly recommended by us for the perfect pairing for your drink!

Open Thursday – Sunday

Points of interest

Places to enjoy along the route

FAUNA BREWERY

Fauna Brewing is a unique gem in the world of craft beer, driven by a deep passion for both brewing and conservation. Nestled atop a charming hill in the picturesque town of Arundel, West Sussex, this small, independent brewery is the brainchild of a dedicated team, with every beer crafted by their talented Head Brewer at the Fauna Brewing & Taproom. What sets Fauna Brewing apart is their commitment to purpose-driven brewing. Each beer they produce is not just about exceptional taste; it's also about making a difference. Fauna Brewing supports a different wildlife conservation cause with every brew, combining their love for great beer with a genuine dedication to protecting our planet's wildlife.

ARUNDEL CATHEDRAL

Arundel Cathedral, officially known as the Cathedral Church of Our Lady and St Philip Howard, is a striking example of Gothic Revival architecture located in Arundel, West Sussex, England. Completed in 1873, it was commissioned by the 15th Duke of Norfolk, Henry Fitzalan-Howard, to serve the Roman Catholic community. Designed by architect Joseph Hansom, the cathedral features intricate stone carvings, soaring spires, and stunning stained-glass windows. Its interior boasts a magnificent vaulted ceiling and a grand altar. Named after St Philip Howard, one of the 40 Martyrs of England and Wales, Arundel Cathedral is not only a place of worship but also a historical monument reflecting the rich heritage of the area.

ARUNDEL CASTLE

Arundel Castle, a Grade I Listed building, is a magnificent medieval castle located in Arundel, West Sussex, England. Originally established in 1067 by Roger de Montgomery, Earl of Arundel, the castle has been the ancestral home of the Dukes of Norfolk for over 850 years. The structure showcases a blend of architectural styles due to various restorations and expansions, particularly during the 18th and 19th centuries. The Gothic Revival architecture, prominently featured in the keep and gatehouse, was enhanced by the Victorian-era renovations under the 15th Duke of Norfolk. The castle's impressive features include a grand hall, exquisite gardens, and a chapel, all set within extensive grounds overlooking the River Arun

HIORNE TOWER

Now a Grade II Listed building, this structure was designed and built around 1787 in a newly established park under the supervision of architect Francis Hiorne of Warwick. It stands 50 feet high and features a triangular layout with three octagonal corner turrets. The building showcases the Gothic Revival style, using flint and stone chequer-work, and includes pointed and mullioned windows. The tower was commissioned by a Duke who wanted to see an example of Hiorne's architectural style before hiring him to restore his Arundel Castle.

Monarch's Way

The Monarch's Way is a historic long-distance footpath in England, stretching over 625 miles from Worcester to Shoreham-by-Sea. This scenic trail retraces the escape route taken by King Charles II in 1651 after his defeat at the Battle of Worcester. Winding through picturesque countryside, charming villages, and significant historical landmarks, the Monarch's Way offers a captivating journey through England's rich heritage. Walkers can enjoy diverse landscapes, from rolling hills and ancient woodlands to tranquil riversides and coastal paths. The trail not only provides a challenging adventure for hikers but also immerses them in the fascinating story of the king's dramatic flight to freedom.

What’s Next?

Done the hike? Let us and fellow members know how you got on and leave any tips and advice!

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Castle in the Air X Fauna Brewery, West Sussex ⏱️ 3.5 hrs