Location

1m Arundel, N of A27. Brighton 40 mins, Worthing 15 mins, Chichester 15 mins. From London A3 or A24, 1 1/2 hrs. M25 motorway, 30 m

History

This great castle, home of the Dukes of Norfolk, dates from the Norman Conquest. Containing a very fine collection of furniture and paintings, Arundel Castle is still a family home, reflecting the changes of nearly a thousand years.

In 1643, during the Civil War, the original castle was very badly damaged and it was later restored by the 8th, 11th and 15th Dukes in the 18th and 19th centuries. Amongst its treasures are personal possessions of Mary Queen of Scots and a selection of historical, religious and heraldic items from the Duke of Norfolk1s collection.

The Duke of Norfolk is the Premier Duke, the title having been conferred on Sir John Howard in 1483 by his friend King Richard III. The Dukedom also carries with it the hereditary office of Earl Marshal of England. Among the historically famous members of the Howard family are Lord Howard of Effingham who, with Drake, repelled the Spanish Armada; the Earl of Surrey, the Tudor poet and courtier and the 3rd Duke of Norfolk, uncle of Anne Boleyn and Catherine Howard, both of whom became wives of King Henry VIII.

Facilities & Amenities

Shop. Fashion shows and filming. No unaccompanied children or photography inside the Castle. Guide book translations in English, French and German.

Disabled visitors may alight at the entrance, before parking in the allocated areas. Disabled WCs.

The Restaurant seats 140. Special rates for pre-booked groups. Self-service restaurant in the Castle serves home-made food. Groups need to book in advance for afternoon tea, lunch or dinner.

Guided tours available for pre-booked parties only. Also available in French and German. Tour time 1 1/2 hrs.

Ample parking. Coaches can park opposite the Castle entrance.

Items of particular interest for school groups include a Norman Keep and Armoury. Special rates for schoolchildren (aged 5 - 15) and teachers.

No dogs allowed.