Arundel Cathedral
A stunning French Gothic Revival cathedral in West Sussex, known for its soaring nave, beautiful stained glass, and tranquil gardens.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Gardens are at their best
Arundel Cathedral
Best Time
Gardens are at their best
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A stunning French Gothic Revival cathedral in West Sussex, known for its soaring nave, beautiful stained glass, and tranquil gardens.
"Incredibly beautiful building, reminiscent of Westminster in architecture."
🚶♀️ Walk from Arundel Castle
Easily accessible from Arundel Castle, making it a perfect addition to your castle visit. :walking:
🌸 Flower Festival Magic
If visiting during the flower festival, expect stunning displays that enhance the cathedral's beauty. :bouquet:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
French Gothic Architecture
Interior
Admire the stunning French Gothic style, reminiscent of Westminster, with high fan-vaulted ceilings.
Stained Glass Windows
Interior
Marvel at the beautiful stained glass, including a notable rose window that casts light into the nave.
Cathedral Gardens
Exterior
Enjoy the serene gardens, especially vibrant in spring and summer, offering lovely views and tranquility.
Impressive Organ
Interior
Discover the decorative church organ, a significant feature with a rich history of installation and craftsmanship.
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Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit
Beyond the Cathedral
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Walk from Arundel Castle
Easily accessible from Arundel Castle, making it a perfect addition to your castle visit. :walking:
🌸 Flower Festival Magic
If visiting during the flower festival, expect stunning displays that enhance the cathedral's beauty. :bouquet:
💰 Donation Welcome
Entry is free, but donations are greatly appreciated to help maintain this beautiful building. :moneybag:
📍 Visit St. Nicolas Church
Don't forget to explore St. Nicolas Church just across the road for more history. :church:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Walk from Arundel Castle
Easily accessible from Arundel Castle, making it a perfect addition to your castle visit. :walking:
🌸 Flower Festival Magic
If visiting during the flower festival, expect stunning displays that enhance the cathedral's beauty. :bouquet:
💰 Donation Welcome
Entry is free, but donations are greatly appreciated to help maintain this beautiful building. :moneybag:
📍 Visit St. Nicolas Church
Don't forget to explore St. Nicolas Church just across the road for more history. :church:
🚗 Free Street Parking
Look for free on-street parking available on the side of the Cathedral. :car:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Arundel Cathedral's stunning French Gothic architecture and beautiful stained-glass windows, often noting its impressive scale and airy interior. Many appreciate the free entry and the tranquility of the surrounding gardens, especially when combined with a visit to Arundel Castle. Some find the interior less ornate than expected, but the overall beauty and historical significance are widely recognized.
"Loved the turrets as it gave Catherdral different look from our more traditional ones. Lovely high fan vaulted nave (more like a French design). If visiting the castle then worth popping in here too, walking distance."
Debbie Pengelly
"We visited during the flower festival. The building is already so beautiful, but was even more enhanced with all of the gorgeous flower displays. You could tell that so much work and thought had gone into each and every design. Entry is free, but they do ask for donations to help fund the show and cathedral understandably. During the flower festival there were also lots of stalls around."
Emily Clatworthy
"Visiting Arundel to finally get to visit Arundel castle. Visited the cathedral as part of our stay.
The church was built by Henry XV Duke of Norfolk.
The building was complete in just 3 years and opened 1st July 1873.
The cathedral is very impressive and can been seen from most parts of Arundel as high on the hill.
There is free on street parking to the side of the Cathedral. With a good pub st Mary's in the gate next to it.
The cathedral has some beautiful stained glass windows and decorative church organ.
Well worth a visit.
Some of the best views are from inside the gardens at Arundel castle.
Make sure you also visit St Nicolas Church just over the road."
Julie Smith
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Arundel Cathedral is located in Arundel, West Sussex. It's easily accessible by car and is within walking distance of Arundel Castle. Free on-street parking is often available nearby.
Yes, Arundel Cathedral is conveniently located within walking distance of Arundel Castle, making it easy to visit both attractions in one trip.
The nearest train station is Arundel, which is a short taxi ride or a longer walk from the cathedral. Bus services also operate in the area.
Cycling is a great option for exploring Arundel. There are usually places to secure bicycles near the cathedral and castle.
While many areas are accessible, it's advisable to contact the cathedral directly for specific accessibility information regarding ramps or lifts.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Arundel Cathedral opening times can vary, so it's best to check their official website or contact them directly before your visit.
Entry to Arundel Cathedral is free, however, donations are gratefully accepted to help with the upkeep of the building and its services.
Yes, Arundel Cathedral holds regular masses. You can find the most up-to-date mass times on their official website.
For specific events like concerts or special services, booking may be required. Check the cathedral's events calendar for details.
While not always formally advertised, you may be able to arrange guided tours or find information leaflets inside the cathedral. Inquire at the cathedral office.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally permitted inside Arundel Cathedral for personal use, but it's always respectful to be mindful of services and other visitors. Avoid flash photography.
The exterior architecture, stained glass windows, and the gardens offer excellent photo opportunities. The nave's height and fan vaulting are also striking.
It's best to refrain from taking photos during services to avoid disruption. Wait until services have concluded or take discreet shots if permitted.
Drone usage is typically restricted in sensitive areas like cathedrals and historical sites. Always check local regulations before flying a drone.
A camera with good low-light performance is beneficial for interior shots. A wide-angle lens can help capture the scale of the nave.
🎫 🎶 Music & Events
Yes, Arundel Cathedral has a choir, and it's a significant part of its musical tradition. They participate in services and sometimes perform in concerts. 
Arundel Cathedral hosts various concerts throughout the year, showcasing its excellent acoustics and beautiful architecture.
Events can range from religious services and ordinations to community music days and special presentations by visiting bishops.
Arundel Cathedral is a venue for weddings. Information on booking and requirements can be found on their website or by contacting the cathedral directly.
The best place to find information about upcoming events, concerts, and services is the official Arundel Cathedral website or their social media pages.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The gardens provide a safe space for kids to stretch their legs after exploring the cathedral or nearby Arundel Castle. Consider visiting during a less crowded time, like a weekday morning, to allow children to explore without feeling rushed. While entry is free, encourage children to contribute a small donation if possible, teaching them about supporting heritage sites. The proximity to Arundel Castle also makes it an ideal stop for a family day out, combining history and impressive sights.
⛪️ Religious Visitors & Pilgrims
Visitors may also find opportunities to engage with visiting clergy, like Bishop Kenneth Nowakowski, during special presentations. Pilgrims and those interested in religious history will appreciate the cathedral's role as a center of faith in West Sussex. The opportunity to pray and reflect in such a beautiful and historic setting is a key draw for many visitors.
📸 Photographers & Art Enthusiasts
Beyond the structure itself, the cathedral gardens provide a softer, natural subject matter, especially in bloom. Photographers can also capture the impressive organ and the decorative elements within the nave. For those interested in art, the craftsmanship of the stonework, the artistry of the stained glass, and the historical significance of the building itself are all points of fascination.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Architectural Marvel: French Gothic Style
Visitors often remark on the cathedral's airy feel and the way light streams through its windows. The stained-glass windows, including a notable rose window, are a key feature, casting colorful patterns across the interior. The overall impression is one of elegance and a departure from more traditional English cathedral styles, offering a distinct architectural experience for visitors.
The Organ's Legacy
This organ is not just a functional part of the cathedral's worship but also a significant piece of musical heritage. Its presence contributes to the cathedral's renowned acoustics, making it a sought-after venue for musical performances and concerts.
+1Gardens and Surroundings
+1Visitors often highlight the beauty of these gardens, noting them as a lovely addition to the overall experience. They are also a great spot for photography, providing a natural contrast to the stone edifice of the cathedral. The proximity to Arundel Castle means that the surrounding landscape is well-maintained and aesthetically pleasing, enhancing the visitor's journey through this historic area.
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