Castle in the Air

“Stunning scenery and wildlife, as well as a beautiful country town and castle, our Arun Valley hike, has something for everyone.”

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. Hopefully, you will have picked up your coffee and maybe even packed a picnic. Whatever you have in your rucksack, you are in for a treat. River walking, hill cresting, sea views, castle views, historic buildings, café and pub stops … 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, a delicious mid-morning brunch at the Motte & Bailey, a perusal of some of Arundel’s shops and galleries, lunch at The George at Burpham – these are all possibilities. Enjoy Johnny Barclay’s nature notes included later on in the guide, which will really bring this walk to life.

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.

Curators: James Down & Laura Wotton

HIKE HIGHLIGHTS

• Stunning views of the Arun Valley, South Downs and Arundel Castle

• Plenty of pub and café opportunities

• Enjoy riverside walking, hill climbing, a cathedral and historic church

• Consider staying overnight in Arundel at The Norfolk Arms leaving plenty of time to explore Arundel Castle and lots of interesting shops and galleries

• Look out for the stunning wildlife highlighted in Johnny Barclay’s nature notes