Overlooking the river, the Boathouse, and with the imposing Arundel Castle directly opposite, The Sail Loft enjoys one of the most enviable positions in Arundel. This delightful conversion is perfect for two people looking to enjoy a few days in this most beautiful of historic towns.

The Sail Loft could not be more central, with a direct outlook onto the River Arun from its small patio terrace, making a fantastic place to watch the world go by following a busy day taking in all the sights in this glorious holiday area. The centre of the town, with its coffee shops, bars and restaurants is just a short stroll across the bridge. Immediately beside the ‘loft’ a footpath follows the course of the river upstream towards the picturesque villages of Wepham and Burpham, and offering beautiful views of the Castle, the Arun Valley and north towards the South Downs. The famous outdoor Arundel Lido is right next door, so although we cannot advertise the Sail Loft with a swimming pool, one is not far away!

The Sail Loft is quite compact. Upstairs is the main living room and double bedroom space with velux roof windows that maximise the light, and offer wonderful views along the river and across the valley. The wooden flooring is original, and very much preserved to retain the character of the building. Downstairs the kitchen has sufficient equipment for a typical ‘town holiday break’, with a two ring hob and a microwave oven. Since the Sail Loft is so wonderfully central we feel most guests will choose to dine locally in the town. Also downstairs there is a toilet and shower. Parking has to be nearby, there is a public car park very close by that is free overnight, and there is easy on street parking near to the bridge.

Arundel and beyond

Arundel is a historic market town dominated by the symbolic castle, and the rising spire of the cathedral. It offers a plethora of craft and antique shops, as well as restaurants and tearooms. It’s a great place to wander and just enjoy its hospitality.

Arundel Castle is the seat of the Dukes of Norfolk, and is set in 40 acres of sweeping grounds and gardens. The castle has been seasonally open to visitors for nearly 200 years. It is one of the great treasure houses of England, and is home to priceless works of art in stunning rooms. Climbing the 131 steps to the Keep, which dates from the 11th century to take in the views over Arundel and The South Downs, is definitely worth the effort.

Beyond the castle grounds Arundel Park extends north towards the Downs, offering many fine walks. Within the park along the Gallops the John Dunlop Stables exercise their horses daily, which makes for an impressive sight if you can time your walk just right!

The River Arun winds its way around the town and is a magnet for wildlife. With more than 60 acres of ponds, lakes and reed beds, Arundel Wetland Trust attracts some of the worlds most spectacular ducks, geese and swans. The best way to enjoy the river is on a river cruise stopping off at the Black Rabbit pub, or proceeding further north where the river hugs the scarp wooded slope at the foot of the Downs before reaching Amberley.

Further afield Arundel is well placed for the coast. Climping Beach and Littlehampton’s West Beach are only a short drive away. This is a beautiful unspoilt length of beach of Special Scientific Interest, and at the eastern end beside the mouth of the River Arun is the West Beach Café built by local craftsmen using materials sourced locally. It is worth a visit, the fish and chips come highly recommended!

Goodwood and Fontwell racecourses are nearby, along with the cathedral city of Chichester with its excellent Festival Theatre, noted for not only the quality of its productions but also the fact many world premieres are featured as well.

If you fancy a day in the city, Arundel mainline station is on a direct route to London, so why not mix the cosmopolitan capital with this beautiful part of Sussex?

• Local shop - 0.1 miles Arundel
• Nearest supermarket - 0.1 miles Arundel
• Nearest restaurant - 0.1 miles Arundel
• Local pub - 0.1 miles Arundel
• Local bus service to Chichester and Littlehampton
• Mainline rail service Arundel for services to Gatwick Airport, London Victoria and Portsmouth
• Gatwick Airport 40 miles