Arundel Castle

With only a few more weeks left in England we are keener than ever to make the most of the fine weekends. Today we drove south to the town of Arundel in West Sussex, to the castle that Martin had bookmarked over a year ago. Set high on a hill, this castle highlights terrific views across the South Downs and River Arun. Built at the end of the 11th Century, it has been the family home of the Dukes of Norfolk and their ancestors for over 900 years.

After lunch in the restaurant we made straight for the oldest part of the castle, the Keep, accessed by 130 stone steps. We were amazed at the similarities between this ancient castle and Windsor; Arundel being founded in 1067 by one of William I's closest nobles in his honour. At the Keep James was delighted to discover dark steep steps down to a dungeon (one would not misbehave again having spent any amount of time down there!) and was soon off again to climb up to the turrets. The view from the top was beautiful - I love the South Downs. Back down once again and we toured the rooms of the castle. It is still occupied by the Norfolk family although like Windsor they reside in a seperate part. It is obvious they do use these state rooms however when the castle is closed to the public. There are many family photos arranged about on the furniture - the Queen and Prince Charles, and the current Duchess' grand-children.

Emerging into the sunlight we sought to discover some secluded paths surrounding the inner walls. Under low-hanging trees two rabbits leisurely hopped away, and we later saw a pheasant. We followed the winding paths around until we came to the 14th Century Fitzalan Chapel and White Garden. Further on was the newest addition to the estate, The Collector Earl's Garden. The 14th Earl of Arundel (1585-1646) was so-named because he was really the first of the great English art collectors - this is evident in the decor and collections of the castle. Opened by Prince Charles on the 14th of May this year, the grand formal garden is a tribute to the Earl. Having died in exile abroad, the elaborate tomb he specified in his will was never erected, so it is now only fitting that this garden serves as his memorial. James simply adored the fountain representing the fairy prince Oberon. I thought it was bit of a folly!

We left the castle and ventured into the town outside the walls where James and Martin enjoyed New Forest ice cream.

Photos are here.