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Best places to picnic this summer
June 18, 2024
As summer approaches and the days grow longer, there's no better way to enjoy the warmth and beauty of the season than with a picnic.
National Picnic Week, celebrated in the UK during the third week of June, is the perfect time to dust off your picnic basket, gather your friends and family, and head to the great outdoors.
Picnicking has a long history, with its roots tracing back to medieval hunting feasts and Victorian garden parties. Today, it remains a beloved pastime, offering a chance to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of daily life and reconnect with nature and loved ones.
Whether you're planning a romantic date, a family outing, or a casual gathering with friends, there are plenty of beautiful places across Arundel, Bognor Regis and Littlehampton for you to sprawl out the picnic blanket, and soak up the sunshine.
Arundel
- Picnic like royalty at the Arundel Castle grounds combining history and nature, for a unique and picturesque setting.
- Swanbourne Lake, situated within Arundel Park, is a tranquil spot ideal for a relaxing picnic by the water.
- Arundel Park, part of the South Downs National Park, offers vast open spaces and stunning views of the rolling hills.
- Mill Road runs alongside the River Arun and offers several picturesque spots perfect for a riverside picnic.
Bognor Regis
- Hotham Park is ideal for families and those looking for a relaxing spot with plenty of amenities. Its central location makes it easily accessible for a spontaneous picnic.
- Bognor Regis beach is perfect for beach lovers and families wanting to combine a picnic with a day of sunbathing, swimming, and sandcastle building.
- Aldwick Beach, located to the west of the main Bognor Regis beach, provides a quieter spot for a picnic, with beautiful sea views.
- Just a short drive from Bognor Regis, Pagham Harbour is a local nature reserve; great if you want to combine a picnic with some birdwatching or a peaceful walk.
Littlehampton
- East Beach with East Beach Cafe is one of Littlehampton’s main attractions, offering a traditional British seaside experience with plenty of space for a picnic; sea breeze, sandy shores, and a lively atmosphere
- Mewsbrook Park is a beautifully maintained park located close to the seafront, offering a variety of amenities and picturesque picnic spots, with a boating lake, children’s play area and cafe if you need to top up your hamper!
- West Beach Local Nature Reserve is a more secluded spot, perfect for those who enjoy natural beauty and tranquility.
- Norfolk Gardens is a lovely park situated near the seafront, offering a range of facilities and beautiful green spaces, including mini golf and tennis.
Tips for the perfect picnic:
- Check the Weather: Always check the forecast to ensure a pleasant outing.
- Pack Essentials: Bring a picnic blanket, utensils, napkins, and plenty of water.
- Stay Sustainable: Use reusable containers and bags to minimise waste.
- Safety First: Don’t forget sunscreen, hats, and perhaps a first aid kit for minor mishaps.
The summer of 2024 may not have delivered endless sunshine, but the Arun District of *Sussex by the Sea* still shines with an incredible range of events and world-class attractions for visitors and locals alike. In the charming towns of Arundel, Bognor Regis, and Littlehampton, there is still plenty to enjoy for all ages, rain or shine.
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Whatever the weather or season, you'll find family friendly fun on and around the sand and shingle beaches of Littlehampton and Bognor Regis. There are plenty of activities within a pebble’s throw of the beach, with seaside parks and greens, organised events in peak seasons, great food and drink options as well as town centres and transport links within walking distance.
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Arundel Live a happy life and get out into the fresh air, start cycling or walking this summer and let’s continue to pedal to a greener tomorrow. With so many beautiful routes in West Sussex, your bike isn’t just a means of transport—it’s your ticket to adventure and sustainability. Countryside walks and cycling Arundel to Amberley Route. This gentle ride takes you from the historic town of Arundel, with its iconic castle and beautiful riverside, through the picturesque countryside to Amberley. Or if you fancy a 19km walk or a 7 mile cycle following quiet country lanes, making it perfect for a peaceful commute or a weekend ride. check out the map See the beginners guide to cycling or Cycling round Arundel with maps to download and Cycling For Softies or Countryside walks For those looking for a bit more of a challenge, the South Downs Way offers a fantastic off-road adventure. Starting from the outskirts of Arundel, you can cycle up into the South Downs National Park, enjoying breath taking views of rolling hills and open countryside. This route is perfect for more experienced cyclists with some exhilarating outdoor thrills and plenty more guides to explore here . Why not try wining and dining at Wiston Estates Vineyard guided tours Whilst you are in Arundel look at their events calendar from comedy, festivals, art trails and historical treasures. book Southern Railway
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The impact of supporting local businesses isn't just about economic benefits and supporting the local economy's growth. When you support a small local business near you, you're fostering a sense of community and connection with your neighbours. You're also contributing to environmental sustainability by reducing the carbon footprint associated with large-scale production and shipping.
Every year on 16th June, locals gather to celebrate Sussex Day— an occasion dedicated to honouring the unique heritage and traditions of our beloved region. Sussex Day was officially established in 2007 by West Sussex County Council . The choice of June 16th is significant as it marks the feast day of Saint Richard of Chichester, the county’s patron saint, who played a crucial role in the history and culture of Sussex. Whether you're a lifelong resident or a curious visitor, Sussex Day is a fantastic opportunity to immerse yourself in the fabulous offerings of Arundel , Bognor Regis and Littlehampton ; the towns that make up Sussex by the Sea . Here are some great ways to celebrate Sussex Day 2024: Arundel A visit to Arundel Castle , with its rich history and beautiful gardens, provides a glimpse into the medieval past of Sussex. Keep an eye out on their events page for themed activities throughout the year. Visit Arundel’s impressive Roman Catholic cathedral , officially known as the Cathedral of Our Lady and St. Philip Howard. The Cathedral also supports the annual Arundel Festival by being a venue for the highly popular Arts Trail around the historic town Enjoy a leisurely boat trip along the River Arun to enjoy the scenery and learn more about the area’s history. Partake in an informative guided tour and learn about the history, architecture and stories of the people who made the town of Arundel.
There's something undeniably comforting about a plate of fish and chips; golden, crispy, and served with a side of nostalgia, this classic dish has a special place in many hearts. Every year, on the first Friday of June, the United Kingdom cel ebrates National Fish and Chips Day, a day dedicated to honouring this beloved meal; although this year it lands on Thursday 6th June to coincide with the D-Day Celebrations. Here are some fantastic places across Arundel , Bognor Regis and Littlehampton where you can mark the occasion with a delicious treat: Arundel Fish & Chips, Queen Street The Red Lion, 45 High Street The Black Rabbit, Mill Lane The Moathouse Cafe, 9 High Street The White Swan, Arundel Road Bognor Regis Victoria Fish and Chips, Station Road The Lobster Pot, Canning Road Royals Fish and Chips, Royal Parade Ye Olde Fish and Chippe Shoppe, Middleton Road Rose Green Fryery, Rose Green Felpham Fish and Chips, Felpham Way Yanni's Fish and Chips, Lennox Street Littlehampton Royal Fish and Chips, Surrey Street Littlehampton Fish and Chips, Beach Road 47 Mussel Row, Pier Road East Beach Cafe, The Promenade Arun View Inn, Wharf Road Riverside Restaurant and Bar, Wharf Road Is there somewhere we’ve missed? We’d love to hear your favourite spot for fish and chips across Sussex by the Sea !
