Arundel at Christmas

Twinkling lights, cobbled streets and festive trees at every turn, the market town of Arundel at Christmas is truly magical. Whether you’re looking for some tasty seasonal treats to adorn your yuletide table, a Christmas gift for someone who has everything, or a visit to Santa for the little ones, Arundel is the place for all those festive feels.

Come late November through December, Arundel, in West Sussex, is overflowing with good cheer. The stunning backdrop of Arundel’s medieval castle, historic streets and beautiful 19th-century cathedral add to the magic.

Christmas shopping in Arundel

From local cheeses and artisan gins to retro memorabilia and fine tea, Arundel’s independent boutiques and galleries are packed with Christmas gift ideas and edible delights.

Charming antique shops, old pubs and quaint cottages line the streets of this delightful market town. Here are some of Arundel’s highlights which are sure to fill you with festive spirit.

Pallant of Arundel, purveyors of fine food and wine

17, High Street, Arundel, West Sussex, BN18 9AD

An impressive selection of the most exquisite food and wine awaits in Pallant of Arundel. You’ll find it at the foot of the High Street by the town square. Championing smaller producers, both locally and across Britain and beyond, it’s the perfect place to find some tasty treats. Opening hours: Monday to Saturday 9 am to 6 pm, Sundays and bank holidays 10 am to 5 pm.

Retro mugs, bags and teapots at AJ’s Emporium

For retro goods not usually found on the high street, pop by AJs Emporium in Tarrant Street. You’ll find an assortment of branded storage tins, teapots, tea towels, metal signs, fridge magnets, mugs and bags.

All have a vintage or collectable twist. Christmas ranges include Harry Potter, Disney, Star Wars and Dr Who. Opening hours: 10 am to 4.30 pm, closed Sundays.

Where: 14, The Old Printworks Shopping Arcade, Tarrant Street, Arundel, BN18 9JH

The Tea and Biscuit Club

Black, white, green, fruit and herbal. You’ll find every type of tea you can dream of and a few more besides packed into the cutest of shops in Arundel High Street.

Choose from locally inspired favourites such as Arundel Afternoon Blend or the Castle Classic. More unusual blends include Rooibos Rhubarb Pie or Turkish Delight and there are timeless classics such as Darjiling, Earl Grey and English Breakfast Tea.

A selection of infusers, antique and modern teapots and tea paraphernalia mean you’ll seek out the perfect gift for any tea lover.

Where: 26 High Street, Arundel

Arundel Farmers Market

Arundel Farmer’s Market is held every 3rd Saturday of the month from 9 am to 1 pm. A fabulous collection of local produce and crafts are on offer, all made, grown or reared within a forty-mile radius of the town. There’s a wide variety of products including delicious organic sausages, preserves, gin, meats, craft beers and artisan chocolates for your Christmas feast.

Where: Arundel town centre, Third Saturday in the month

Where to eat and drink in Arundel

Once you’ve filled your shopping basket and bought all your Christmas gifts you might be in need of sustenance.

Arundel’s got you covered with plenty of cosy cafes and traditional historic pubs offering a warm welcome and a real ale to revive even the weariest of shoppers.

Some of our favourites include The Swan Hotel Restaurant at the bottom of the High Street and, for great value for money, The Moathouse Cafe, opposite the Post Office, also in the High Street. 

If you’re looking for something a little different head to the unique LG Cafe in Tarrant Street if you’re a fan of cupcakes and shocking pink!

Walks around Arundel

Be sure to take the time, especially if this is your first visit to Arundel, to explore some of the side streets such as Bakers Arms Hill leading into Maltravers Road, to admire the historic houses.

If you fancy stretching your legs further afield, take a walk along the river bank for some fantastic views of the town. Be warned though it can get very muddy. A good alternative is to head along Mill Road following the route of the castle’s moat to Swanbourne Park.

Read our sparkling article on Christmas light trails in Sussex if you’re looking for a festive wintery wander.

Arundel is a fabulous town to explore any time of year, but at Christmas, it’s even prettier, I think you’ll agree.