What are your plans for Christmas 2014? There is no denying the fact that Christmas is always a special occasion. The festive feel that is around the entire month is truly spectacular. There are so many great events going on and places to visit during this time. One of these places is Arundel in Sussex. Sussex has long been a popular tourist destination. After all, it is an extremely picturesque place, with stunning landscape. There is something for all ages and all personalities to see and do as well, which is why it appeals to a whole host of different people. And, Arundel is undoubtedly one of the stars of the show when it comes to Sussex. So, keep on reading to discover more about this location and celebrating Christmas there.
Arundel is a market town. It is situated in West Sussex, within a steep vale of the South Downs. It is a truly spectacular place. The atmosphere is friendly and full of life, which is just what you want when visiting a new location, and you can imagine just how special it gets during the Christmas period. Arundel is not far from another great tourist place, Chichester. It is roughly ten miles away, so you could always incorporate Chichester into your trip, as there are lots of old and magical buildings to visit, such as the Cathedral. There are also lots of lovely cottages in Arundel and the neighbouring areas. These will make the perfect base for your stay. They boast so much character and charm and allow you to take advantage of the most spectacular views. Moreover, the cottages are typically self-catering. This means that you can enjoy your holiday as you wish and you can really make the most of the Christmas activities that are going on. You may even find cottages with luxury extras, such as hot tubs, huge gardens and private swimming pools! Thus, this is definitely the best solution when celebrating this Christmas in Arundel.
There are lots of great events going on during the Christmas period in Arundel. On Saturday 6th December Arundel by Candlelight takes place. This is truly a spectacular occasion. It starts at 1pm and lasts until around 8pm. If you weren’t feeling festive you certainly will be once you attend this event. The true essence of Christmas is embodied. Thousands of visitors come to Arundel for one of the standout occasions on the Christmas calendar. The Christmas tree lights will be switched on at this event. Her Grace the Duchess of Norfolk will turn the lights on alongside two celebrities that are currently appearing at Worthing Theatres in the Jack Frost production. This is Richard David-Caine from Swashbuckle’ CBeebies and Marcus Collins, who appeared on the X Factor. Collins was runner up to Little Mix on the series. Aside from this, there is going to be entertainment in the form of local choirs, brass bands and traditional carols, as well as Father Christmas. There will also be the Christmas market. This will contain a wide range of stallholders with a variety of top standard products. This includes season treats, like hog roast, mulled wine and roasted chestnuts. The unique shops of Arundel come to life during this event as well. It is one that is not to be missed if you are celebrating Christmas in the South East of England.
Why not take a trip to Arundel Cathedral? This magical cathedral is a true sight to behold. It is in French gothic style and faced with Bath stone. There are striking figures of Christ and his apostles, as well as a statue of Mary with her divine child, on the west fa§ade. This really is a stunning cathedral and there are lots of events going on during the month of December. If you are actually in Arundel on the 25th itself you will be able to go to Christmas Day family mass, with midnight mass the night before. Aside from this there are plenty of occasions leading up to Christmas day. On Saturday 20th there is the Joint Christingle Craft Workshop. There is the Advent Service of both Cathedral Deanery Schools and Worthing Deanery Schools. Saturday 13th is the Arun Choral Society Carol Concert. This is a great event that you are sure to enjoy. You will need to purchase tickets from the ACS Box Office or you can do so via the Internet as well.
Amberley is not too far away from Arundel, approximately 11 miles. The Amberley Museum is an extremely fascinating place and during the Christmas period they do Santa Fun Days. If you are going away with children this is definitely an event you should consider. The museum is open from 10.00 am until 4.00 pm. However, you can purchase tickets in advance by visiting their website, which you are recommended to do. So, what do these Santa Fun Days involve? Well your children are guaranteed to love making their own wooden Christmas decorations. You will enjoy the experience to! The day is set in Santa’s cabin and elves’ workshop, which really enhances the fun. You will also print a sign that will be used to direct Santa to your home. There is a free train ride and a free bus ride. You can even make a telegraph to send to Santa as well. This really is a great family fun day and something that young children are guaranteed to remember for a long time.
Last but not least, there is an exciting and fun Christmas Fair taking place on Sunday the 14th of December at the Arundel Cricket Club. The festive period is certainly not complete without experiencing a traditional fair and you are assured to really enjoy this one. This is even more so the case as you do not have to spend a penny if you don’t want to, as entrance is free ideal for those that are going away on a budget! The event starts at 10.00 am and ends at 2.00 pm. There are lots of fantastic stalls for you to browse around. This includes tombola and raffle, home made gifts, Christmas cards and tags, table decorations, holly wreathes, preserves and pickles, and of course a delicious cake stall. There will be refreshments served on the day as well. No matter how young or old you are, if you want some festive fun and to get in the Christmas spirit, then this fair is a great option.
So there you have it there is a lot to love about visiting Arundel at Christmas time. If this is something you are interested in, don’t forget to take advantage of some of the amazing events that are on offer! You won’t regret it. Also, remember there are plenty of spectacular holiday cottages for you to take advantage of. With log fires and traditional d©cor, they make the perfect setting for a Christmas break away! You will be able to easily search for your accommodation via the Internet. There are lots of great websites available nowadays where you can efficiently find the right cottage for you. You will enjoy it much more than staying in a hotel. Don’t forget to book your tickets to any of the events mentioned if necessary. You don’t want to miss out.
