crannies that offers a glimpse into the thrills and chills of castle life in days gone by. Parts of the medieval castle still exist and these are a
fascinating attraction for the visitor. The Norfolks are one of England’s oldest families and their seat is set in 40 acres of beautiful grounds, sheltered from the constant buzz of modern life by high walls and imposing gates. The laws of inheritance have resulted in the castle, the
parkland and the tenanted farms being retained by the present Duke, formerly Lord Arundel, or Eddie Arundel as he is better known by those who remember his exploits as an amateur racing driver. The remainder of the land in Sussex is owned by Duke Bernard’s four daughters. Arundel Castle is one of the great treasure houses of
England, with its ornate Library that boasts a priceless silver icon by Fabergé, elegant Picture Gallery containing portraits of Dukes past and present, and 14th-century Fitzalan Chapel, plus a priceless collection of paintings, furniture, tapestries, stained glass, china and clocks. Not to mention the sculptures, carvings, heraldry and armour, some of which can be seen in the dramatic setting of the Castle Keep. To get here you must climb 130 steps up into the ancient tower. It is, however, worth the effort. The castle dominates the lovely town of Arundel,
through which the River Arun runs down to the sea. In summer, visitors from all over the world come to see the castle, the spectacular Catholic cathedral and the wildlife
park on the edge of town. It is within the castle walls that the Norfolk family treasures are to be found. Paintings by Canaletto, Van Dyck and Gainsborough draw visitors from all over the world while the extravagance of the ornate furniture, brought together here from the family houses at Worksop Manor, Norfolk House and the castle itself, is extraordinary in its beauty and craftsmanship. Importantly, Arundel Castle is a family home. When
Georgina, Duchess of Norfolk, moved here in the early 1990s this vast and ancient building had not been lived in for many years. It was not, as it is today, an integral part of the local community. The Duchess has spoken of her commitment to making a historic monument a more vibrant and exciting place to visit rather than just another stop on the tourist trail. In this she has succeeded, bringing music festivals, open-air theatre and a variety of cultural events to the castle and its grounds. “We are trying to ensure continuity,” says the Duchess, “and to add to the history of the place. We want the
Top left: The
Ante Library is notable for its three magnificent portraits by Van
Dyck. Above left:
The Stone Hall is a stone-vaulted undercroft with 18th-century mahogany hall chairs and the Regency Regulator clock.
Above: The
Fitzalan Chapel was founded in 1380 and is still the burial site for all the Dukes of Norfolk
BRITAIN 61
ALL PHOTOS: ARUNDEL CASTLE TRUSTEES LTD, PAUL BARKER
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