Discover Arundel’s Nature in Art Poetry Trail

Arundel has always been a place where nature and creativity go hand in hand and the Nature in Art: Art in Nature Poetry Trail is a beautiful celebration of both.

Created by Greening Arundel in collaboration with local poetry groups Swanbourne Poets and Chichester Stanza, this unique trail invites you to explore the town through fresh eyes. Along the way, you’ll discover original poems inspired by the landscapes, wildlife and community spaces that make Arundel so special.

But this isn’t just about words on a page. The trail also shines a light on the work of Greening Arundel’s dedicated Green Team volunteers, who are helping to restore and nurture local habitats across the town.

A Trail to Wander, Not Rush

There’s no set theme or strict route to follow, this is a trail designed for wandering. Take your time as you move from one spot to the next, soaking in the surroundings and the poetry they’ve inspired.

Each poem reflects a different perspective: our connection to Arundel’s green spaces, the quiet beauty of the natural world, and the care taken to support biodiversity and wildflower growth. You’ll also find moments of history woven in, from reflections on the Civil War to the emotional echoes of the First World War, as well as the ever-flowing River Arun as a symbol of time passing.

Inspired by Nature, Written in Place

When the poets first walked the trail, nature put on quite a show. Owls hunted along the riverbanks, rooks circled in the evening sky, and long grass whispered through the community orchard.

Elsewhere, bees hummed busily in the Pollinators’ Garden, insects found shelter in bug hotels, and wildflowers and nasturtiums tumbled freely through the herb beds on the quay. Each poet followed the place that spoke to them most capturing fleeting moments and turning them into something lasting.

An Experience for Everyone

As you explore, you’ll find NaviLens codes at each stop. Scan them to hear the poets reading their work aloud, an inclusive feature designed to ensure that visitors with sight loss can fully enjoy the trail.

Whether you’re a poetry lover, a nature enthusiast, or simply looking for a peaceful way to explore Arundel, this trail offers something truly special.

Plan Your Visit

We invite you to wander, pause, and take it all in. Let the poems guide you, surprise you, and perhaps even move you.

This inspiring community project has been made possible thanks to support from Your Station: Your Community Fund.

When you’re ready, you can also access audio recordings of each poem online—just follow the links provided at each stop along the trail.

Thoughts Along the Pathway
Circling
White Owls over Arundel
Strolling
The Oak’s Testament
Swanbourne Lake
A Walk on the Wildside
Waiting for Eddie
Time Shifts
Community Hands
Because of All His Friends
Hereafter
Rooks Over Arundel
What It Takes
Ancient Pastures
Victoria to Arundel

Photo Credit – Nigel Cull