Sussex by Rail: 48 Hours in Pulborough, Arundel & Amberley
Castles, Brooks and a James Bond film set
In just 43 minutes, the hustle and bustle and fumes of London and Gatwick Airport can be a distant memory as you embark on an unforgettable trip to serene West Sussex. Forget sat-navs and car parking fees. Travel, as generations have done before you, on the Great British Railway. This 48-hour itinerary features some of Sussex’s most scenic and peaceful spots, and all train trips featured are direct trains, meaning there’s no need for confusing platform changes.
Sit back, relax, and let someone else do the navigating...
After being in London you’ll want to make the most of the fresh Sussex air. Whilst you’re still at the railway station, jump straight on once-hourly bus service 100 taking you directly to RSPB Pulborough Brooks. Within 10 minutes you’ll be within one of the richest areas of nature in the country. This haven for wildlife is brimming with wildflower meadows, pools, ponds and ditches offering spectacular views across the rolling South Downs. Follow the trail around the wooded heath or head to one of the many viewpoints to watch wildlife do what it does best. One minute, all may be calm with the Wigeon gently whistling as they feed, then the next, chaos breaks out as thousands of birds take to the air.
Don’t miss: Call in to the Visitor Centre to find out about the many events and guided walks that are hosted here throughout the year. Grab a bite to eat in the on-site café and if travelling with young children, make the most of the wild play area.
Now you’re calm and rejuvenated after your walk with nature, it’s time to head to one of Sussex’s most beautiful historic market towns, Arundel.
Jump back on bus service 100 to Pulborough Railway Station, then take the 10-minute direct train journey to Arundel.
Arundel Castle is one of the most iconic landmarks in this picture-perfect town. Built nearly 1,000 years ago, many original features remain including the Norman Keep, Medieval Gatehouse and Barbican, Baron's Hall, 14th Century Catholic Fitzalan Chapel, Regency Library and Victorian bedrooms. While it’s currently the family home of the 18th Duke of Norfolk, it’s also open to the public. Step inside to explore its fascinating history.
Don’t Miss: The award-winning castle gardens, a true masterpiece of design!
Take a 25-minute stroll along Mill Road to Swanbourne Lake, keeping an eye out for water voles in the stream running alongside you, as you go.
Indulge in a sumptuous afternoon tea at Swanbourne Lodge Tea Room before hiring a rowing boat to enjoy the glorious lake.
Whether it’s a hearty pub classic, light bite featuring local produce or drinks by the River Arun that are needed, all can be found at Arundel’s The Black Rabbit. With incredible views of the wetlands, Arundel Castle and South Downs, this popular pub draws in the crowds.
Head up Arundel High Street to explore more of what the historic centre offers, from age-old pubs to classy wine bars. Check out The Red Lion which first opened its doors 300 years ago; St Mary’s Gate Inn, a traditional 16th century inn; and Digby Wine Tasting Room, the UK’s first high street cellar door. One of Sussex’s most unique venues and Arundel’s best kept secret is Arundel Jailhouse. Located at the end of a hidden passage away from the hustle and bustle of the High Street, the Jailhouse is transformed by night into an underground club featuring live music, comedy and theatre.
For more inspiration: Check out the evening events taking place at Fontwell Racecourse, just half-an-hour from Arundel. From disco nights to evening racing in the summer months, there’s a full calendar of events.
The majestic Arundel Cathedral is open every day from 9am. Pop in after breakfast at one of Arundel’s independent cafés to admire the beautiful stained-glass windows, French Gothic style architecture and statues.
Wander down the High Street, towards the railway station. Allow a couple of hours enroute to explore Arundel’s wealth of independent shops and boutiques. Arundel is a hub for arts and antiques, visit Spencer Swaffer Antiques, Nineveh Chapel Antiques Market, Arundel Bridge Antiques and Antiques & Militaria amongst others. You’ll also find a host of vintage bookshops and fashion boutiques adorning the street, as well as the must-visit Old Printworks Shopping Arcade too.
Once at the railway station, take the four-minute direct train journey to the final stop, Amberley. This small quintessentially British village, located at the foot of the South Downs, is famous for its thatched cottages and beautiful views. Take a 15-minute scenic stroll, crossing the River Arun and passing the historic St Nicholas Church as you go, to George & Dragon. Reputably one of the oldest three pubs in Sussex, this is the perfect pub lunch stop, oozing character and charm.
Fun fact: Speak to the owners and you may hear stories of King Charles II once visiting George & Dragon!
After a hearty lunch, spend your remaining afternoon in Sussex exploring the delights of Amberley. Wander past Amberley Castle, a unique luxury hotel, recognised by the MICHELIN guide and awarded the distinguished One Key award. If you want a peek at the 900-year history inside, the hotel welcomes day guests visiting the restaurant for dinner or afternoon tea.
Alternatively, retrace your footsteps to Amberley Railway Station where you’ll find Amberley Museum located close by. Travel back in time and experience the South's industrial and rural heritage here. Offering the perfect crescendo to your weekend on the rails, you can ride the historic narrow-gauge railway and bus service around the museum, taking in the 40 plus exhibits along the way. Many of the museums original buildings from when it was a working chalk quarry in the 1840s to 1960s can still be seen.
Don’t miss: Amberley Museum’s claim to fame. Remember Roger Moore’s seventh and final outing as 007, A View to a Kill? The scenes in the Main Strike Mine were shot here. The original sign from the Bond films is still in place at the museum today.
It’s now time to leave Sussex behind. Return to Gatwick Airport or London via a 51-minute direct train from Amberley.
Roger Moore on set of A View to a Kill, Amberley Museum
Great lunch options in Pulborough: The Pulbrew, The White Hart Pulborough, The Loft, Red Lion Tavern Pulborough and Macklins @ The Riverside.
Great places to stay in Arundel: For hotels, THE PIG in the South Downs offers up-scale, rustic hotel accommodation, The Town House, Amberley Castle, Arundel Park Hotel. Woodacre B&B, St Mary's Gate Inn and Cathedral View are ideal for those looking for B&B or self-catering accommodation.
Great shopping in Arundel: RetroEsque, Twice as Nice, Scent Lounge, Old Maps & Prints, Pallant of Arundel, Dinky Donkey Delights, The Tea and Biscuit Club, Lavender Sisters Arundel, Spencer Swaffer Antiques, Nineveh Chapel Antiques Market, Arundel Bridge Antiques and Antiques & Militaria.
Great dinner options in Arundel: The Black Rabbit, The Steakist Bistro & Grill, The Parsons Table, La Campania, The Red Lion and Butlers Restaurant, Bar and Terrace.
Great breakfast options in Arundel: Motte & Bailey Café, Partners Café, Lulamae’s, Moathouse Bakeaway & Coffee Co, Juniper and The Edible Sandwich Co.
Great lunch options in Amberley: Amberley Black Horse, The Boathouse Amberley, Amberley Tea Room, Riverside Tea Rooms, The Bridge Inn
There are direct trains from London Victoria and Gatwick Airport to Pulborough, Arundel and Amberley on Southern Rail.
If you are travelling from Brighton or Portsmouth Harbour there is one change.
