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 art, 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 BN18 9AD 01903 882288 [email protected] PallantofArundel.co.uk 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.
Isla Home
23 Tarrant St, Arundel BN18 9DG 01903 885596 Isla Home This fabulous interior design shop is a great place to pick up some inspiration for your Christmas decorations. Open 10 am to 5 pm, Monday to Saturday and 10.30am to 4.30 am on Sundays.
Castle Chocolates of Arundel
11, Tarrant Street, Arundel BN18 9DG 01903 884419 CastleChocolates.com This traditional family-run confectionery shop specialises in premium quality handmade loose chocolates and fudges including sugar, dairy and gluten-free options. Take your pick from the 25 varieties whether as a gift or personal indulgent treat. Opening hours: 10.30 am to 6 pm, 7 days a week.
Retro mugs, bags and teapots at AJ’s Emporium
14, The Old Printworks Shopping Arcade, Tarrant Street, Arundel BN18 9JH 07504432987 [email protected] ajs-emporium.business.site 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.
The Tea and Biscuit Club
26 High Street, Arundel 01903 883941 [email protected] TheTeaAndBiscuitClub.com
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. Opening Hours: Monday to Friday 11 am to 5.30 pm, Saturday and Sunday 10 am to 5.30 pm.
Zimmer Stewart Gallery
Opening hours: 10 am to 5 pm, closed Mondays and Sundays.
30 November to 24 December 2019 Christmas 2019 – Great things come in small packages.
Arundel Farmers Market
Arundel town centre, Third Saturday in the month
01903 884772
[email protected]
arundelfarmersmarket.co.uk
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 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 Knight’s Table, a little further up the hill, for a medieval banquet or 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.
Arundel is a fabulous town to explore any time of year, but at Christmas, it’s even prettier, I think you’ll agree.
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Travel writer ‘Travel With Kat’, holistic therapist, walking guide, and co-founder of Hello Sussex.