Top 6 Castles around Barlavington

While Barlavington itself is known for its natural setting, the nearby area features several notable historic sites. You can explore the ruins of Cowdray Heritage Ruins, an important early Tudor house. Additionally, the Gatehouse at Arundel Castle offers a glimpse into a nearly 1,000-year-old family home. The historic Midhurst Town Centre also boasts two ruined castles: Cowdray Castle and a motte and bailey castle on St Ann's Hill. There's also the Folly Tower, South Downs National Park, a quaint, occupied structure off the beaten track.

Coates Castle, a Grade II listed castellated mansion from the 1820s, is closely associated with the Barlavington area. Designed in the Strawberry Hill Gothic Style, it has a rich history, having hosted figures like Sir Winston Churchill. While historically significant and architecturally unique, it is important to note that Coates Castle is private land and generally not open for public access, as it is now divided into multiple private homes.

For deep historical significance, Cowdray Heritage Ruins are a must-see. This site represents one of England’s important early Tudor houses, visited by King Henry VIII and Queen Elizabeth I. Only the Kitchen Tower remains intact after a devastating fire in 1793. Arundel Castle, with its gatehouse, has been the family home of the Dukes of Norfolk for nearly 1,000 years, offering a rich tapestry of history.

Yes, several sites are considered family-friendly. Cowdray Heritage Ruins, the Gatehouse at Arundel Castle, and Arundel Town Centre are all categorized as family-friendly. Midhurst Town Centre, with its historic streets and two ruined castles, also offers an engaging experience for families.

The area around Barlavington, including near these historical sites, offers various outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking trails, including easy, moderate, and difficult options. For example, the 'West Sussex Literary Trail' is a moderate hike, and there are easy loops like 'Lord's Piece – The White Horse Pub loop from Sutton'. Mountain biking is also popular, with trails such as the 'Unicorn MTB Trail' and routes through Graffham Down Nature Reserve. For more details, explore the guides for Hiking around Barlavington, MTB Trails around Barlavington, and Easy hikes around Barlavington.

The South Downs National Park area, where these castles are located, is beautiful year-round. Spring and summer offer pleasant weather for exploring ruins and walking the surrounding trails. Autumn brings vibrant foliage, while winter can offer a stark, dramatic beauty, though some facilities might have reduced hours. Always check specific opening times for individual sites before your visit.

Yes, several locations offer scenic views. Arundel Castle, with its gatehouse, is set high on a hill and commands breathtaking views over the South Downs and the River Arun. The Folly Tower, South Downs National Park is also categorized as a viewpoint, offering picturesque vistas.

Both Arundel Town Centre and Midhurst Town Centre are known for their independent shops, galleries, cafes, and pubs. Arundel's streets are filled with options for food and drink, while Midhurst offers a variety of establishments to sample local cuisine. You'll find plenty of choices for refreshments and meals in these historic towns.

Visiting a site like Cowdray Heritage Ruins can take a couple of hours to explore thoroughly. For a comprehensive visit to Arundel Castle (including its gardens and chapel), it's recommended to set aside the best part of a day. Exploring the town centres of Arundel or Midhurst, which include castle ruins, can easily fill half a day or more, especially if you stop at shops or cafes.

Parking facilities vary by location. For major attractions like Arundel Castle and Cowdray Heritage Ruins, dedicated parking is usually available, though it may incur a fee. When visiting Arundel Town Centre or Midhurst Town Centre, public car parks are typically found within walking distance of the historic areas. Always check local signage for parking restrictions and charges.

Public transport options are available to the larger towns. Arundel has a train station with connections, making Arundel Town Centre and Arundel Castle accessible. Midhurst is served by bus routes connecting it to nearby towns. For specific routes and schedules, it's advisable to check local bus and train operator websites.

Many of the outdoor areas and trails in the South Downs National Park are dog-friendly, often requiring dogs to be on a lead, especially near livestock or wildlife. While specific castle interiors might have restrictions, the grounds and surrounding walking paths, such as those near Cowdray Heritage Ruins or in the general vicinity of Arundel Castle, often welcome well-behaved dogs. Always check individual site policies before visiting.