With Valentine’s day falling on the weekend this year, it is the perfect chance to whisk your sweetheart away on a romantic getaway to Dove Cottage in Arundel. Arundel is full of old world charm and I cannot think of a more magical place to create lasting memories with your loved one.
1.Romantic walk through Arundel town centre
Arundel is a medieval market town full of independent boutiques, antique shops, pubs and restaurants . The architecture is stunning and you can have a romantic stroll to Arundel cathedral or along the river banks. Visit the Farmer’s Market, which will be running on 15th Feb 2025.
A fascinating tour by Martin, an Arundel postman. Contact him for availability, it is weather dependent.
3. Fishing at Chalk Springs Trout Fishery
Nestled in the heart of the South Downs National Park in Arundel, the lakes are all fed with natural springs and you can fish for rainbow and brown trout in the clear spring water lakes. If it is your first time fishing, you can organize private tuition with Steve Batten, a local fly fishing coach. You will need to have a valid fishing license, a one day license costs £7.10 and can be organized in advance on the Environment and Countryside Website.
4. Escape into the glorious countryside
Explore the picturesque Sussex countryside surrounding Arundel on a romantic long weekend stay with your partner. Take a leisurely walk starting and ending at charming pubs, like the Arundel-Amberley walk along the river, or choose from a wide range of other scenic trails. For added convenience, we can arrange a picnic basket for your outdoor adventure. Additionally, consider embarking on a section of the South Downs Way, a renowned hiking route. Here are some helpful websites suggesting beautiful walks: [ https://www.walkingenglishman.com/southdownsway04.html https://www.alltrails.com/en-gb/england/west-sussex/arundel https://sussexexclusive.com/west-sussex-walk-bignor-hill/ ].
5. Visit Swanbourne Lake and Arundel Wetlands Trust
Feed the ducks at Swanbourne Lake, stop at the cafe for a slice of cake and a hot drink. There is a great walk from Swanbourne Lake. https://discoversussex.org/walks/short-walks/swanbourne-lake/
Pop over to the Wetlands Trust across the road and book yourself onto a boat safari. Sightings of birds vary according to the season but it is not unusual to see kingfishers, Cormorants, Pelicans, Peregrines and barn owls. Claim a free ticket in February at Arundel Wetlands Trust for World Wetlands Day 2025!
6. Organise a winery tour at Tinwood winery, Ashling Park estate and finish off with a wine flight at Digbys back in Arundel.
Discover the delicious English sparkling and learn all about how it is manufactured, from grape to glass.
7. Off road driving experience or Rage buggy experience
If adrenaline is what you are after, we are 14min drive from Tangmere for a rage buggy experience or an 18 minute drive away from Goodwood and you can book yourself into an off roading experience.
source: Forster driving school rage buggy
8. Hire a boat to explore the River Arun or a bike to explore the South Downs
Self drive boats can be hired for a lazy meander down the river Arun, gently exploring the beautiful countryside. If you prefer to explore the South Downs on two wheels, bicycles can be hired and suggested routes are provided via smartphone apps. Visit Riverside South Downs for more information.
9. Arundel Riding Centre
Arundel riding centre has access to an extensive number of bridleways and they can be contacted to organise a hack out in the countryside.
10. Discover the neighbouring beaches
Experience a truly romantic getaway with your partner on a long weekend stay. Just a short drive from the picturesque pebble beaches of Worthing, Rustington, and Littlehampton, indulge in a romantic stroll along the seafront. Take a moment to unwind at a charming seaside café, or embrace the invigorating experience of a dip in the sea followed by a rejuvenating sauna. For an unforgettable day, we can arrange a delightful picnic for you to take to sandy dunes of West Beach in Littlehampton.
After a busy day out, come home to your self catered accommodation, Dove Cottage, nestled right in the heart of Arundel. Have a drink overlooking the river and relax in your home away from home, with all the luxuries of a five star hotel. Experience a truly romantic getaway with your partner on a long weekend stay.