Arundel .. a real pleasure to visit … Part 1
I feel like I have just touched the surface of knowing the charming market town of Arundel. I have visited a few times before but still feel I have much to see and experience in this quaint old town.
In the spring I had the pleasure of visiting the wonderful Arundel Castle Gardens with a visitor, we were both so impressed and it delivered far more than we had anticipated and we were both amazed at the size of the Castle which we decided would have to warrant a second trip in itself.
I have posted a few photos of the gardens to wet your appetite but will revisit this in another post. I have been told that the tulip festival there is spectacular and definitely do not want to miss it next year.
On this trip to Arundel I visited the two main shopping streets, High Street and Tarrant Street. I am delighted and impressed by the number of unique and independent shops here, it is a refreshing change and long may it continue to be that way.
I started my trip by parking near the river in the main car park and walking up the main street. I decided to first of all have my caffeine fix and popped into a lovely cafe called Motte & Bailey. I have visited here before and not been disappointed with the delicious food on offer, a lovely place to have Breakfast, Brunch, Lunch or I have noticed that also have Tapas Nights.
Once I had by caffeine fix I turned left on to Tarrant Street and was drawn in to Antiquities, a fabulous shop full of interesting decorative antiques for the home. There is furniture, mirrors, lighting, garden and architectural items and decorative accessories, a real feast for the eyes, a really interesting shop.
Tarrant Street has all sorts of quirky and different shops all of which are worth a visit but as time was limited I shall mention my favourite of the day which was Pots & Posies. I was very pleased to meet the cute shop assistant Pip seen below giving me the eye and the very hospitable owner Jess. Oh that all shop owners were as welcoming!
I found the small but perfectly formed gift shop stocked finds that will almost certainly delight those who go across its threshold. The unique homewares on display include glassware, crockery, hand soaps, furniture, bath salts and handmade bespoke pieces from vintage and driftwood finds. A wonderful place to do some Christmas shopping, I shall be back!
Next stop was to buy my daughter a little treat, I couldn’t pass the LG Cafe without thinking of how much she would appreciate the combination of chocolate and mint in a brownie, so I succumbed on her behalf. Strolling along Tarrant Street you will stumble across many unique gift shops, great cafes and restaurants, clothes shops and art galleries. Arundel makes for a wonderful and unique trip out… Part 2 next week….
