Arundel Castle
Arundel Castle is located in the town of Arundel in West Essex, England. The restored medieval castle was built at the end of the 11thcentury and overlooks the River Arun. Built for the Earl of Arundel, the castle has a motte (an artificial mound) that is over 100 feet high from the dry moat. One of the most interesting tidbits about this estate is that aside from the occasional reversion to the Crown, Arundel Castle descended through a female line of heiresses from the 12thcentury to present day. The castle served as the seat of the Dukes of Norfolk and their ancestors for over 850 years. Arundel Castle has a deep and fascinating history and many politically famous owners. The castle was severely damaged during the civil war and besieged twice. Queen Victoria and Prince Albert stayed at the castle for three days in 1846. The castle was completely restored by the 15thDuke of Norfolk in 1900. It was one of the first English country houses to have electric lighting, fire fighting equipment, service lifts, and central heating. The estate has been updated and added to throughout its history. Arundel Castle boasts a crenelated Norman keep, a gatehouse, towers, the Fitzalan Chapel, Victorian bedrooms, rare collections of paintings and tapestries, a 19thcentury private chapel, and a library that was considered one of the finest Regency interiors in the world. The themed gardens of Arundel include a rose garden, a cutting garden, a vinery, a stumpery, and a glasshouse. There’s also a castle shop, a museum, a coffee shop, and a restaurant in the original servants’ hall. Part of the castle is open to the public, but it is currently closed.
