There’s a lot to see and do in Arundel. And with all that activity, coffee, wine and sustenance will often be required. So this week, after another flying visit to the town, I stopped for a quick coffee at one of the town’s more iconic eateries, to see whether it was as idyllic as I remembered, namely the Black Rabbit on the outskirts of the town.
Where is it?
It’s right slap, bang on the banks of the River Arun, that’s where it is with views back up the river to the castle. From the castle gates, car park and museum in the town centre, head north-east towards Swanbourne Lake and the Wetlands Centre and then just keep going. It’s a narrow lane and the pub is impossible to miss. They have a fantastic outside seating area right on the banks of the river.
What’s on the menu?
We didn’t have a chance to stop for more than a coffee but I did have a good look at the menu. Main courses start at just over £13 and they cater for vegetarians and vegans. Choices include good old fish and chips, steak, burgers, and more exotic choices like Malaysian aubergine curry and crispy Asian duck salad. They also do starters, sharing platters and puddings. Nothing too outlandish, just a good selection of pub grub. I mean you can’t go wrong with a sticky toffee pudding or chocolate brownies. They also have a children’s menu, a Sunday menu, and a “specials” menu that offers the likes of venison bourguignon.
I was slightly disappointed not to find any Sussex wines, beers or spirits on the menu, but nonetheless, they have a great choice if you are not as Sussex obsessed as I am.
What is special about it?
Easy, it’s the location and the décor! Outside, there is just something deliciously indulgent about being riverside and they have usable jetties for those floating in by boat! Inside, it has a naturally warm feel and a charming eclectic style which includes roaring log fires, oak beams, a collection of teapots and books, and even a boat from the Harry Potter film, The Philosophers Stone.
What else do you need to know?
If you’re thinking of eating, you need to book as it is very popular and gets busy. If you’re just stopping for coffee, they open at 11.30 am.
If you’ve enjoyed this post about the Black Rabbit, Arundel and while you’re in Arundel, you may also like:
10 Things To Do in Arundel
Arundel Tulip Festival
A Circular South Downs Walk
