Things to do in Arundel begin with the town itself. It is small enough to wander without rushing, yet full of history, independent shops, riverside views, cafés, galleries and quiet corners that make a day feel properly spent. For visitors discovering West Sussex, Arundel has that rare balance: a dramatic castle skyline, a walkable centre and a softer everyday charm.
Ochre Knitwear’s Arundel shop sits at 23 Tarrant Street, BN18 9DG, close to the heart of the old town. It is an easy stop while exploring the antique shops, tea rooms, Castle, Cathedral and riverside walks nearby. If you are planning a visit, this guide brings together a gentle Arundel day out: where to walk, what to see, a little history, and where to find us.
Things to do in Arundel start with history
Arundel is one of those towns where the history is visible before you start reading about it. The skyline is shaped by Arundel Castle and Arundel Cathedral, while the streets below hold old shopfronts, Georgian and Victorian buildings, cafés, galleries and independent retailers.
Arundel Castle is the town’s most famous landmark. Its story reaches back to the years after the Norman Conquest, and the castle still overlooks the River Arun and the surrounding Sussex countryside. It gives the town a sense of scale: even a short walk through Arundel feels connected to centuries of English history.
Visit Arundel Castle and the Cathedral
If you have never visited before, the Castle is the natural place to start. Even if you do not go inside, the views around the town and the approach up from the High Street make it part of the day. The gardens, stonework and setting above the town all help explain why Arundel feels so distinctive.
Close by, Arundel Cathedral adds a different kind of drama. Its gothic outline rises above the rooftops, giving the town a strong visual identity from almost every approach. Together, the Castle and Cathedral make Arundel feel historic without becoming museum-like. Life still moves below them: people shopping, meeting for coffee, walking dogs, browsing galleries and drifting between streets.
Walk slowly through the independent shops
Arundel is not a town to rush. The pleasure is in moving slowly from one small street to another. Tarrant Street, High Street and the surrounding lanes are full of independent shops, antiques, homeware, gifts, cafés and places to stop for lunch.
That is why Arundel suits Ochre. Our shop is part of a town where people still enjoy browsing properly: touching fabric, comparing colours, asking questions and choosing pieces that feel right rather than hurried. You can find us on Tarrant Street, with natural-fibre knitwear made for real wardrobes and everyday wear.
Where to find Ochre Knitwear in Arundel
Ochre Knitwear Arundel is at:
23 Tarrant Street
Arundel
West Sussex
BN18 9DG
Open Ochre Knitwear Arundel in Google Maps
The shop is a short walk from the main town centre streets and fits naturally into a day of browsing, coffee, Castle views and riverside wandering. Our Arundel shop is one of our independent UK locations, alongside Lewes and Dartmouth, while the story behind the knitwear reaches back to our long connection with Kathmandu and natural-fibre production. You can read more about that on our Ethical Knitwear Made in Nepal page.
Take in the River Arun and the quieter walks
After the busier streets, the River Arun gives the day a slower rhythm. A short riverside walk brings a different view of the town, especially when the Castle appears above the water and rooftops. On a mild day, it is worth leaving time simply to wander, sit outside with a drink, or follow the path towards greener spaces.
Arundel is also a gateway to countryside walks and the South Downs. That makes it a good place for visitors who want more than shopping: a little history, a little nature, and a town centre where everything still feels close together.
A simple half-day Arundel itinerary
For a relaxed half day, begin with coffee in the town centre before walking up towards the Castle and Cathedral. From there, come back down through the independent shops and galleries, with time to browse Tarrant Street and visit Ochre.
Afterwards, head towards the river for a quieter walk or visit Arundel Museum if you want more local context. If you have more time, continue towards the Wetland Centre or the surrounding countryside. Arundel works especially well because the day can be shaped around your pace. It can be a history visit, a shopping day, a gentle walk, or a little of each.
What to wear for a day in Arundel
Arundel is a walking town, so comfort matters. Layers are useful because the weather can change between the river, shaded streets, cafés and open views. A soft jumper, scarf, linen shirt, gilet or light wrap is often enough for a day that moves between indoors and outdoors.
For women’s natural-fibre layers, explore our women’s knitwear. For men’s layers, visit menswear. Smaller pieces such as scarves, socks, gloves and wraps can be found in accessories.
Why Arundel is worth a slow visit
The best things to do in Arundel are not only the big attractions. They are also the smaller moments: looking up at the Castle from a narrow street, noticing the Cathedral above the rooftops, finding an independent shop you did not expect, sitting by the river, or choosing a piece of knitwear that reminds you of the day.
That is what makes Arundel special for us. It has heritage, beauty and individuality, but it still feels human. It is not a place built around one quick photograph. It is a town made for wandering.
FAQ
Where is Ochre Knitwear in Arundel?
Ochre Knitwear is at 23 Tarrant Street, Arundel, West Sussex, BN18 9DG, close to the town centre, independent shops, cafés, Arundel Castle and riverside walks.
What are the best things to do in Arundel?
Popular things to do in Arundel include visiting Arundel Castle, seeing Arundel Cathedral, walking by the River Arun, exploring independent shops, visiting Arundel Museum and enjoying cafés and galleries.
Is Arundel good for a day trip?
Yes. Arundel is compact, walkable and full of history, shops, cafés and countryside nearby, making it well suited to a relaxed day trip.
Can you walk around Arundel easily?
Yes. The town centre is easy to explore on foot, although some routes towards the Castle and Cathedral include uphill sections and older streets.
What should I wear for a day in Arundel?
Comfortable shoes and light layers work well. A jumper, scarf, gilet or wrap can help when moving between riverside paths, shaded streets, cafés and shops.
