Top Picnic Spots in Arundel
Most people have heard of the famous song the Teddy Bear’s Picnic which starts with these words – ‘If you go down to the woods today you’re sure of a big surprise!’ and you might get a fantastic surprise if you picnic around Arundel as we think there is no other town that has better picnic spots where you can relax and unwind.
A peaceful afternoon by the lake, an evening by the river, a view for miles where you can see right down to the coast and at all times you will be surrounded the gentle sounds of nature and perhaps also being watched over by the breathtaking Arundel Castle.
Arundel’s open spaces offer an idyllic setting for anyone looking for the best spots to relax, unwind and connect with nature.
So, grab your picnic basket, blanket, family and friends and get ready to explore the beautiful picnic spots that await you in and around this picturesque town!
Whereabouts are the top picnic spots in Arundel?
Arundel Castle is situated right in the heart of the town and visible from many surrounding locations. It is a majestic, magical building and has beautiful grounds. A picnic anywhere within sight of this castle’s unique setting, will make you feel you are picnicking like Royalty.
Just along from the Castle, along the picturesque Mill Lane, you will find Swanbourne Lodge Tearoom – literally next to the lake. Surrounded by an enchanting landscape you will be spoilt for choice as to where to have your picnic. Perhaps not too close to the lake unless you are prepared to share your sandwiches with the multitude of ducks, geese and swans who live there!
You will also find the invading seagulls are always trying to get in the act and steal bread off the wildfowl! So, unless you welcome sharing your food you may be better to picnic a little way away from the edge of the lake!
Swanbourne Lake’s History is so interesting too and the Swanbourne Lake Walk has a footpath that leads to more areas of Arundel Park and the Hiorne Tower all of which have wonderful places for a quiet and picturesque picnic. You can approach Arundel Park from near the entrance to Arundel Castle Cricket Club where there are a few parking spaces and walk into the park and along to Hiorne Tower As you turn round to the South the views across to the coast from this part of the park are stunning.
From the centre of town you can walk along The River Arun – Mill Road or the Arundel Lido car parks are good starting points. There are many spots along the riverbank which are perfect for a riverside picnic and although you might want to consider taking a walk before, during or after the picnic, if you go along the riverbank, you can make a walk as long or as short as you wish but without forgoing the sights of nature all along the bank.
The Norfolk Estate has many hundreds of acres surrounding the town and local Countryside with small accessible parking areas including those at The Dover (off A27), Whiteways Lodge at the top of Bury Hill and opposite Swanbourne Lake. Views from some of the paths within the South Downs National Park are spectacular and absolutely perfect for a picnic.
What food makes the perfect picnic
Whatever you like really! Arundel shops such as Pallant of Arundel can provide ‘proper’ picnic hampers of all shapes and sizes. They offer a fantastic selection of goodies to suit every taste.
Arundel has many tea Tearooms, Cafés and Coffee Shops who will make you sandwiches and there are Takeaways available too. They would all be glad to help suggest some goodies to take on your picnic. If you like a tipple then visit Digby Fine English who can provide some wonderful wines to take with you.
Is anything else needed?
Good weather always helps so check the forecast and if its windy aim to find a more sheltered spot. Don’t forget a comfy blanket – thick enough to make sure you won’t have any prickly plants coming through!
Plenty of water, sunscreen and keep the weight down of what you need to carry by choosing light-weight plates/containers, and to avoid plastic maybe wrap up the food in paper packaging or foil.
Just like Arundel picnics have a long history too – going right back to Victorian Garden Parties and Medieval Hunting Feasts.
It’s not just Teddy Bears who enjoy picnics as they will appeal to everyone who wants to be outdoors, do something a little different and simply have fun! Picnicking can be a pastime that allows you to reconnect with nature and disconnect with the hustle and bustle of daily life.
As the days grow longer and the warmer weather arrives, this lovely pastime can be set up as a romantic date, a gathering with friends or a family outing.
You can all sprawl out on the blankets, soak up the sunshine and don’t forget to pack the teddy bear!
By Barb Hogan, Visit Arundel
Photos: Charlie Waring & Nigel Cull