Arundel Castle Travel Guide: Tulips, History and the Perfect Spring Day Trip from London
Arundel Castle is one of England’s most iconic and beautifully preserved medieval castles. Originally founded in the 11th century, it has stood for nearly a thousand years, evolving through centuries of English history.
What makes it so special isn’t just the structure itself, it’s the atmosphere. The castle rises dramatically above the charming town of Arundel, with sweeping views over the South Downs and the River Arun. Even before you step inside, you already feel like you’ve entered another era.
Inside, you’ll find grand staterooms, historic interiors, beautifully kept gardens, and seasonal floral displays that completely transform the experience depending on when you visit.
They sometimes host medieval jousting tournaments and special events, which would make the experience even more unique.
Why Visit Arundel Castle?
If you’re wondering whether it’s worth the trip, let me make it simple: yes, especially in Spring.Here’s why:
1. The gardens in spring are unreal
When I visited in mid-April, the entire estate was bursting with tulips. Not just a few beds here and there, literally waves of colour surrounding the castle walls. It honestly felt like walking through a painting.
2. It’s a perfect mix of history and scenery
You’re not just looking at old stone walls. You’re walking through centuries of history while also being surrounded by some of the most beautiful gardens in England.
3. It feels like a hidden gem (even though it’s popular)
Even though it’s well known, it still feels like a peaceful escape compared to London.
4. It’s a great day trip without stress
No complicated planning. Just hop on a train and you’re there in about 90 minutes.
When is the Best Time to Visit Arundel Castle?
Honestly? Spring wins.
I visited in mid-April, and it was absolutely magical. The tulips were in full bloom, the gardens were glowing with colour, and everything felt alive.
If you’re planning your visit:
- Spring (April–May): Tulips, blossoms, peak garden beauty
- Summer: Lush greenery, warmer weather, busier crowds
- Autumn: Golden tones, fewer tourists
- Winter: Limited garden displays, quieter castle experience
But if you ask me, go in spring. It completely transforms the experience.
How to Get to Arundel Castle?
Getting there from London is surprisingly easy. You can take a train from London Victoria or London Bridge station.
- Journey time: around 90 minutes
- Return tickets: roughly £16–£32 depending on how early you book
- Arrival: Arundel station
- Walk: 10–15 minutes from station to castle
I personally boarded from Clapham, which made it even easier, but the key tip here is, book your train early. Last-minute tickets can get expensive.
Once you arrive in Arundel, the walk itself is lovely, small town streets, glimpses of the castle above the rooftops, and a calm pace that already feels like you’re escaping London.
What is the Experience Like at Arundel Castle?
Walking into Arundel Castle feels like stepping into multiple worlds at once.
You start with the outer gardens, and immediately you’re greeted with colour. In spring, it’s tulips everywhere, layers of reds, yellows, purples, and pinks. There’s a section near the entrance with a stone archway and fountains that makes for a perfect first photo stop.
One of my favourite areas was the rose garden, soft, romantic, and with a perfect side view of the castle walls. Another favourite was further into the grounds where you find a tucked-away tulip garden with a small hut in the middle. It felt almost unreal, like it was designed purely for wandering and getting lost in.
Inside the castle, the rooms are grand and full of character. You get that classic medieval-English feel, heavy wood, tapestries, and large windows overlooking the grounds.
But what surprised me most? The food.
There are two café within the castle grounds, one inside the castle and one in the gardens. There’s also a cafeteria section opposite the cafe in the castle which has more savoury options.
And I still think about the lasagna I had there. It was around £12.50, and genuinely better than expected. Add a £3.50 carrot cake and a £2.50 Earl Grey tea, and you’ve got a very solid castle lunch.
Photo Spots in Arundel Castle
If you’re going for content or just want memories worth keeping, don’t miss:
- Rose garden (castle side view)
- Fountain in the garden area with all the flowers
- Tulip gardens hidden deeper inside
- Cathedral view shots from higher ground in the garden veranda area
- Garden café seating area (surprisingly aesthetic)
- Grass walk along the side of the garden leading into the castle
Every few steps, there’s another angle that makes you stop and take your camera out.
What is the Price Like at Arundel Castle?
Here’s the breakdown:
- Castle, Gardens, Bedrooms: £31
- Castle & Gardens: £29
- Gardens only: £17
For my visit, we paid £58 for two people for castle + gardens.
We skipped the bedrooms because honestly, the castle and gardens were the main attraction for us, and they were more than worth it.
Tips for Visiting Arundel Castle
Here are a few things I wish I knew beforehand:
- Buy tickets online in advance (queues can be long on the day)
- Go in spring if possible, tulips are unforgettable
- Book train tickets early to save money
- Arrive early to enjoy gardens before crowds
- Try the café cafeteria inside the castle (especially the lasagna)
- Explore beyond the obvious paths, some of the best spots are hidden
- Wear comfortable shoes, there’s a lot of walking
Travel around easy with Holafly eSim – 5% OFF when you use code ‘JULIAXEATS’
This will help save you some money when travelling with 5% off eSims.
Final Thoughts about Arundel Castle
Arundel Castle genuinely surprised me. I expected a nice castle visit, but what I got was a full sensory experience. History, gardens, food, views, and that calm feeling of being somewhere completely different from London.
It’s rare to find a place that balances beauty and history so well, but Arundel does exactly that. In spring especially, it feels like it completely transforms into something almost magical.
If you’re looking for a day trip that feels peaceful, scenic, and a little bit special, this is it.
MORE ON MY BLOG
Explore more of my travel blog
CONNECT WITH ME ♡
♡ Instagram: @juliaxeats
♡ Tik Tok: @juliaxeats
♡ YouTube: @juliaxeats
♡ Blog: www.juliaxeats.com
Business inquiries: juliaxeats@gmail.com
Explore the United Kingdom
More UK Posts
-
Europe | Food | United Kingdom
Agora Borough Market: Is it Worth the Wait in London?
Discover Agora at Borough Market, an affordable Greek-inspired spot with standout dips, skewers, and a relaxed vibe. Full review with food, prices, and tips.
-
Europe | Food | United Kingdom
Joy King Lau London: Best Yum Cha in Chinatown?
Discover Joy King Lau in London Chinatown, a long-standing spot for authentic Cantonese dim sum since 1977, see if it’s the best yum cha in the area.
Tags: Arundel Castle, Arundel, West Sussex, UK travel, London day trip, spring gardens UK, tulip festival UK, medieval castles England, UK castles, castle gardens, Arundel travel guide, things to do Sussex, historic castles UK, UK travel blog, spring travel UK, UK photography spots, castle photography, UK garden tours, day trips from London, Arundel Cathedral, South Downs, Arundel station, train from London, UK hidden gems, historic England, castle tour, tulip gardens, food at Arundel Castle, UK travel tips, Arundel itinerary, England travel guide
