St Mary

The walk up to St Mary in Arundel rewards you with one of those views that stops you mid-step. This is a proper parish church, sitting elevated above the town with the castle and River Arun spread out below - the kind of vista that makes you understand why people have worshipped here for centuries.

Inside, it's surprisingly grand for a country church. The chancel is magnificent, all vaulted ceilings and serious stonework, while the nave has that particular quiet that old churches possess. You'll spot tombs of the local gentry dotted about, and the stained glass catches the light in that way that photographs never quite capture. It's the sort of place where an hour disappears without you noticing.

History buffs will appreciate the medieval bones of the building, though it's been restored and tweaked over the centuries like most churches. Families with older kids will manage the walk up fine, though it's not a destination on its own - you're really coming to Arundel for the castle and the riverside walks anyway.

St Mary works brilliantly as part of a morning in town before heading back to somewhere like Ryebank Corner Glamping nearby. The admission is typically free, and there's no time limit, so you can linger as long as you want. Go on a clear day if you can - that's when the views from outside genuinely justify the climb.