The stunning walk takes you through award-winning gardens (Image: Oliver Dixon)
You could escape to a “real-life fairytale” destination just a stone’s throw from London.
We all crave a break from city life every now and then, and if you’re on the hunt for a day trip that will transport you somewhere tranquil and peaceful, then this stroll through magnificent castle gardens could be precisely what the doctor ordered.
Getting out and immersing yourself in nature can work wonders for both physical and mental well-being, and there is no shortage of breathtaking spots to enjoy a walk across the UK. One particularly picturesque route, complete with stunning gardens and spectacular castle views, was recently shared on social media – and it is just over an hour’s journey from central London.
A Sussex couple, Cat and Nathan, posted the walk on their TikTok account, describing it as “a real-life fairytale” that they had no idea had been “on their doorstep” for years.
The destination in question is Arundel Castle, a restored and remodelled medieval fortress situated in Arundel, West Sussex. It features magnificent gardens that visitors can explore at their own pace, and guests may also venture inside the castle itself – or simply admire its spectacular exterior from the grounds.
Arundel Castle is the reigning recipient of the Historic Houses Garden of the Year Award, which it claimed in November last year. The gardens, spanning 38 acres, are divided into a number of distinct sections, amongst them a tropical garden, a rose garden, a wildflower garden, and even a kitchen garden brimming with fruits and vegetables.
It is not solely about the flowers, however, as there are numerous striking landscape features such as the Earl’s garden, which boasts Italianate terraces, pergolas, and the recently refurbished Antler’s Temple.
In the caption of their video, Cat and Nathan wrote: “Can’t believe this has been on our doorstep for years. Honestly, this was the most beautiful day, seeing the castle up close and walking around the grounds, just wow. I’d definitely recommend bringing a picnic on a nice summer’s day, too!”
Viewers of the couple’s video were left speechless by the breathtaking scenery captured in their clip, with many enquiring about how to get there. Others already familiar with the castle even jokingly urged the pair to take down their video, expressing concern that their tranquil retreat would be overrun by visitors.
One person said: “I went last week, and I try to go every year for the tulip festival. It’s just so beautifully stunning.”
Another added: “Absolutely amazing, just peace all the way through.”
A third posted: “Wow it looks so beautiful and peaceful! I have to add it to my list of places to visit.”
To reach Arundel Castle from London, travellers would need to head to Victoria train station before boarding the Southern service to Bognor Regis, alighting at Arundel. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes, followed by a brief 15-minute walk from the station to the castle.
Admission to Arundel Castle is not free, with ticket prices varying depending on the experience desired. Those wishing to explore both the castle and its grounds will pay £29 for adults and £13 for children. Alternatively, for visitors interested solely in the gardens, tickets are available at £17 per adult and £8 per child.
The castle gardens operate from 10am until 5pm, with final entry at 4pm. The grounds remain closed on Mondays, with the exception of bank holidays and throughout August, when they welcome visitors daily.