Nightlife in Arundel

Blurring the lines between hipster coffee shop and craft alehouse, the Norfolk Tap is one of the latest additions to Arundel’s nightlife scene. For those after a caffeine hit, try their own blend of coffee via Arundel-based roasters Edgcumbes and a wide range of loose tea, while their keg and cask offering is one of the best in town, with half a dozen ales and beers on offer, largely sourced from the nearby Arundel Brewery. Factor in a range of tapas-style small plates, its central High Street location and walls decorated with artworks from the Zimmer Stewart Gallery, and you have one of our favourite Arundel watering holes.

Where the Norfolk Tap is all modern style and culture, The Red Lion is the most traditional of pubs, right down to its name (The Red Lion is officially the most popular name for a pub in Britain, incidentally). The food is all locally sourced and covers the traditional pub grub bases, while the bar is stocked with beer from local breweries and one of the best whiskey ranges in Arundel. Inside, you’ll find several large-screen TVs screening the big sporting events and out back a snug little garden with heaters for cooler afternoons and evenings.

There can be few finer ways to while away an afternoon than supping on something cold and watching the world go by. And the Black Rabbit is the perfect place for that, an upmarket gastropub that lies on the banks of the River Arun in the South Downs around a mile from Arundel Castle. With a long terrace overlooking the River Arun – and yes, that is the Harry Potter boat from the Philosophers Stone moored below – it’s the perfect place for a summer’s day, while the roaring log fires inside will beckon you in come winter.

Another stellar country pub is The Black Horse in nearby Binsted. Recently refurbished, it’s a traditional village pub with a large beer garden, an excellent range of locally sourced food and a seriously stylish dining room, perfect for working your way through their dessert range, which gets updated weekly.

The George in nearby Burpham is just as good. Built in the 17th century, the South Downs pub was recently renovated with a fresh contemporary interior and a seasonal, locally sourced menu. The dog-friendly pub is the perfect stop after a countryside stomp and has a wine and beer menu to match any in the region.

Built in 1525, St Mary’s Gate is one of the oldest buildings in Arundel and still as popular as an alehouse today as it was back in the reign of Henry VIII. A short walk from the cathedral and castle and our Arundel hotel, the pub is a local hotspot with a reputation for great food and one of the best drinks ranges in the region, including a very decent wine menu.