12 Days of Christmas – a Guide to Shopping in Arundel
Whether you visit for a day trip or a weekend escape, Arundel offers a festive experience unlike any other. By supporting the town’s independent shops, you’ll not only solve those gift problems, you’ll also be investing in the soul of a town that truly embodies the spirit of Christmas.
The 12 Days of Christmas, a popular and familiar festive carol, strictly speaking starts on Christmas Day, but this year we’re using the theme to showcase Arundel’s independent shops. So, this year, let the 12 Days of Christmas guide you through some of town’s magical independent businesses. Wander, explore, shop, and tick off your present list, locally.
Merry Christmas and happy shopping!
1. Scent Lounge / On the First day of Christmas…
From fine fragrances and glowing scented candles to natural skincare and thoughtful stocking fillers, Scent Lounge brings together a carefully curated collection that’s designed to have a gift for just about everyone.
Backed by more than 20 years of partnering with celebrated brands and supplying boutique retailers and perfumeries, the range blends timeless favourites with modern must-haves, and there are even a few world-famous fans (but that deserves it’s own story so we’ll save that for another time).
2. The Tea & Biscuit Club / On the Second day of Christmas…
Who doesn’t love a cuppa and a biscuit? In his little shop on the high street, you’ll find an impressive collection of over 60 tea blends and herbal infusions from all over the world, as well as teas served at The Castle and Goodwood House.
And it’s not just tea that’s on offer. Think biscuits, chocolates, e-gift cards and even tasting experiences – everything you’d expect from a family-run business passionate about helping people discover their ideal brew.
3. Pallant of Arundel / On the Third day of Christmas
Located at the lower end of the high street this independent food store and wine merchant is a treasure trove of culinary delights and gift-worthy finds.
Committed to supporting small producers both in Sussex and beyond, they curate a selection of exceptional, hard-to-find products defined by quality and character. A browse here is essential for all the foodies out there.
www.pallantofarundel.co.uk
4. Nineveh House / On the Fourth day of Christmas…
Nineveh House on Tarrant Street offers a truly unique shopping experience, bringing together traditional crafts, antiques, retro and vintage clothing, art, silver and curios all under one impressively large roof. This historic building hosts 14 individual shops, catering to every taste and budget.
A quirky, delightful treasure trove, it’s the kind of place where you just might uncover the perfect gift for even the trickiest person or relative.
5. Isabella Josie / On the Fifth day of Christmas…
Something different for someone who has everything? Brimming with millinery magic, this distinctive boutique on Tarrant Street offers a delightful blend of craftsmanship, creativity and character. Discover hats, caps and accessories for every mood, moment and occasion. Or for an extra-memorable gift workshop vouchers are available to craft your very own topper. Chapeau!
isabellajosie.com
6. The Old Print Works / On the Sixth day of Christmas…
Originally crafted by Wheeler & Lodge of London, The Old Print Works now houses 16 independent businesses, each offering something a little different. Explore everything from vinyl and CDs to vintage-style fashion, accessories and sustainably made paper products. Perfect for browsing
It’s a lovely spot to browse for unusual, quirky gifts.
oldprintworksarundel.co.uk
7. Digby Fine English / On the Seventh day of Christmas…
Calling all wine lovers – this one’s for you. Since 2009, Dig-by Fine English has been crafting sparkling wines that have won fans and awards across the globe. It even holds the title of official English fizz for the House of Commons gift shops and HMS Queen Elizabeth.
And with Arundel as its home, there’s plenty of local history and Digby heritage to explore – maybe whilst sipping a glass of fizz?
digby-fine-english.com
8. The Crow Road Books / On the Eighth day of Christmas…
There’s a book for everyone – surely? Forget Amazon, Arundel has its own independent bookshop, The Crow Road. Run by James Doyle, a passionate bookseller, who shares his love of reading with all ages. From prize-winning fiction and non-fiction to children’s books, new titles arrive every day.
Perfect for gift ideas, and whatever your interests, James is usually available to help customers discover books that entertain, engage, and inspire.
thecrowroadbooks.co.uk
9. Lily’s Chocolate Box / On the Ninth day of Christmas…
A festive must-have and foolproof gift choice, Lily’s Chocolate Box is where you really will find something for everyone
This traditional-style sweet shop in Tarrant Street, run by a mother and daughter duo and chocolate enthusiasts, has an extensive selection of premium chocolates, fudge, as well as familiar favourites from days gone by.
Wander in, sample a few, and maybe treat yourself as well!
10. Fauna Brewery / On the Tenth day of Christmas…
For the craft beer fans and animal lovers out there, this is a great find. Fauna Brewery, perched at the top of the town opposite the Cathedral, brews with real purpose; each beer supports a different wildlife conservation project.
It’ll be worth the walk up the hill to pick up a gift that tastes good and does good – that could be two ticks off the list.
11. Willow & Eve / On the Eleventh day of Christmas…
Searching for a show-stopping party outfit or maybe a clothing gift? This thoughtfully curated pre-loved boutique, where the rails are always worth a browse, celebrates slow fashion, making it easy to find something stylish, sustainable, and one-of-a-kind. The rails are always worth a browse.
12. The Lido / On the Twelfth day of Christmas…
Arundel Lido offers so much more than a place to swim. With events and activities running throughout the year, and even a cosy sauna in the winter, it’s a hub for fitness and the community.
For lovers of warms laps, cold plunges, exercise, or joining in with the vibrant community spirit, a season ticket makes a thoughtful and versatile gift and another tick on the list.