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Everybody loves a romantic break away and nestled in West Sussex is the picturesque town of Arundel – just the perfect place for that special getaway. Why not make it a proper relaxing treat where you and your loved one can enjoy some quality time together. Add a good helping of romance into the mix and let’s see what Arundel has to offer.
Spending time together is the first ingredient you need when enjoying a romantic break but you also need a destination that will put you in the mood for love and Arundel is definitely that – mainly because of where this beautiful market town is situated. For a start just look at Arundel’s idyllic surroundings – the town truly offers a backdrop for love, with Beautiful Countryside for Walks, majestic downland, sheltered woodlands and the The River Arun running right through the town.
River Arun Photo by Nigel Cull
Add in historic buildings like Arundel Castle , Arundel Cathedral, Independent Shops and splendid architecture and you will have just the perfect setting to share with your loved one. Being in such a scenic, relaxing location also gives out the feel-good hormones called endorphins – just perfect for getting in the mood for romance.
Imagine you and your partner, looking out across stunning views, talking, laughing and connecting in each other’s company. Turn off your phones, speak the language of love and focus only on your partner!
The Sussex Granary, Photo by Fiona Mills
Then of course you will need somewhere romantic to stay – charming cottages with open fires or perhaps a Hotel where you can relax in a Spa with a hot tub and where there is lots of pampering to be had too, like at Avisford Park Hotel Perhaps you could create a romantic atmosphere by enjoying an indulging massage together!
Staying at The Sussex Granary situated down a quiet country lane with outstanding views and individual charm is a great place to relax, unwind and forget about the stresses of everyday living. Spas and Retreats can offer tranquillity, peace and are very romantic places to stay.
Red Roses are perhaps the most romantic flower but many others can symbolise love. Flowers can speak of passion, devotion and appreciation so are always thought of as one of the most romantic of gifts. Arundel’s local florist Beachtown Blooms (see photo below) will be only too pleased to deliver an exquisite bouquet on your behalf.
It’s long been said that the way to the heart is through the stomach and if that is true, you can be sure to follow that path in Arundel as there is a huge choice of Restaurants in the town. It doesn’t have to be full-on candles and three courses either – take a picnic, or get up early and prepare a special breakfast with fresh croissants and coffee on a tray or go out to a friendly, cosy Cafe for a Full English. You could take a drive out of town for a meal out. This can be very special too. The Roundabout Hotel and The Pig in the South Downs are both set in beautiful, scenic areas and not too far from Arundel.
In Twelfth Night, William Shakespeare wrote “If music be the food of love, play on!” He was expressing the idea that music has the power to stir emotions and bring people together so as Arundel is full of music venues and many Thriving Arts & Culture events, have a look at our Events Calendar to see if you can find something to suit you and your partners own tastes.
Photo by Mindaugas Skrupskelis
Here are a few ideas for other ingredients you might need to ensure a stress free and relaxing romantic break…
Comfy shoes as if you are out walking, you don’t want to be getting blisters or falling over!
A special outfit for that meal out where you might want to look a bit more glamorous
Favourite perfume/aftershave – a lovely scent is a great thing to be remembered by and good memories are often made when your scent lingers! Pop into the Scent Lounge and find that special perfume.
Take your favourite tipple so if you stay in Self-Catering or Bed & Breakfast accommodation you can enjoy a glass of your preferred drink whenever you want to. Or visit the local Vineyards & Wineries and drink-in the amazing selection of wine tours, tastings, and flight experiences available to you – all within easy reach of Arundel. It’s quite romantic to sit and watch the sunset together enjoying a glass (or two!) of delicious wine.
Take special snacks like chocolate or fruit so if your romantic break is set away from the shops you will always have a stock of your favourite treats with you. Arundel does have some wonderful sweet shops which are worth a visit in case you need to stock up or treat yourselves to something special. Lily’s Chocolate Box Ltd and Galerie Bon Bon have a great selection of chocolates perfect for romance!
Pack wet weather gear/warm coats so if the great British weather lets you down you can still go out of doors. After all it is said there is no such thing as bad weather – only unsuitable clothing!
Why not add in an hour or two for shopping? The quirky independent shops found in Nineveh House, The Shopping Arcade and Arundel Bridge Antiques sell art, crafts, antiques, clothing and collectables. You’ll be able to find that unique and special gift for your loved one and buy them that individual item of jewellery or clothing they have always wanted. There’s certainly a good selection of gifts to choose from throughout all the Shops in Arundel.
Have you or your loved one always wanted to visit a special ‘place’ or Local Attraction together? There are several very special places to be found in the Arundel area and if wildlife is something you like to see then a visit to the Arundel Wetland Centre is a must.
If you plan to take your romantic break around Valentines Day, then watch out for Cupid! He was originally a Greek god who had the power to make people fall in love! He was eventually adopted by the Romans and the Greek image of a handsome young man was changed to that of a little boy with the bow and arrow who you now see depicted on Valentines Day cards. If one of his arrows hits you then love follows!
Photo by Volodymyr Tokar
Are you planning on taking a heart shaped box of chocolates to give to your loved one? If so, they were first introduced by Richard Cadbury, the son of the Cadbury whose chocolate we all still eat today. 36 million heart shaped boxes of chocolates are sold each year! Pop into Lily’s Chocolate Box and Galerie Bon Bon to find those special treats.
Arundel really does have all you need for a romantic break. These special times together, spent with your loved one, have proved that once you have forgotten about the stresses of everyday life, this time together can help put the spark back into relationships.
So, imagine waking up in a massive comfy bed, with views out of the window of countryside, wildlife and trees. No rushing about, peace, wonderful food, the opportunity to do things you want to when you want to. Just perfect and very romantic too!
All the above can help make your special break a remoteness from everyday life and ensure the time spent together really brings the romance along too!
Watch out for Cupid and enjoy!
Written by Barb Hogan, Visit Arundel
Cover photo by Nigel Cull