UK – Day 13: Arundel Amazing!
In stark contrast to yesterday, the weather was really nice today. Parts of the sky were actually… blue! The sun was out and I felt compelled to get out and enjoy the day. We went out to the local “Co-operative” supermarket and got some last minute essentials. Then mum mentioned there is a catholic church in nearby Goring-on-sea which has a replica of the ceiling of the Sistine chapel in Rome. That is the one with Adam touching the hand of god. This is the only place where such a replica exists, and its a very small town. The church itself is very small and non-descript and is called “The English Martyrs”. Unfortunately, it was closed but I was told I could come back on saturday to get some photos. I would say the church has to be at least 300 years old, probably a lot more though. I went for a walk to the beach where the waves were coming in and it was quite windy!
A church in Goring-on-sea
Goring-on-sea
English Martyrs Church
After that, we went to Arundel, which we were near about a week ago, but the weather was a lot better today. The cloudy sky made for dramatic views and the light was magical. When you come down the hill to Arundel, you see the massive, and I do mean massive, Arundel Castle on the hill. It is larger than any cathedral I have seen and it appears to be intact, unlike many which have been damaged during wars over the years. The first part of the castle was built almost a thousand years ago in 1068. There is a huge wall around the castle as well as a Cathedral, which is a lot newer, only 150 years old. The castle has been built up slowly over about 600 years, but it is a truly impressive sight. It is built on a hill and the town of Arundel hugs the hill and is gorgeous as well.
Arundel
Arundel
Upper entrance to the castle
Upper entrance to the castle
A shop in Arundel
A shop in Arundel
We parked and I have to admit I went a bit nuts getting photos as the light was so perfect and everything was so sumptuous and photogenic. We walked up the hill, and each new view was better than the last one. Sadly, the castle is actually closed until April, but its massive so you can easily see it from most parts of the small town.
Arundel Cathedral
Arundel
Arundel Castle
Arundel Cathedral
Arundel Cathedral
Arundel Cathedral
For a late lunch, early dinner, we went to the “Red Lion” pub on the high street where I enjoyed a lovely risotto with mushrooms and Gruyeres cheese. Yum! During the time we were there, it got dark so as we walked back, the christmas lights came on and we saw the christmas tree. It was a lovely place and I highly recommend it for a visit any time of the year.
Arundel
Arundel