Norfolk Arms Hotel

This historic coaching inn offers a truly charming and traditional English experience, making it a memorable stay for many. Its signature feature is its central location in the heart of Arundel, providing easy access to the town's main attractions. Guests consistently highlight the hotel's character, the comfortable rooms, and the generally friendly and helpful staff. It is an ideal choice for couples seeking a romantic getaway and sightseers eager to explore the castle and cathedral. Families will also find the hotel accommodating, with some rooms offering ample space. To enhance your stay, consider requesting a room away from the high street if you are sensitive to noise, and be aware that the hotel, being an older building, does not have a lift.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel maintains its historic charm, though this means it does not feature a lift, which some guests find challenging, especially with luggage. However, staff are often available to assist. The Wi-Fi connectivity receives mixed feedback, with some guests experiencing poor or erratic service, while others find it adequate. The hotel boasts a cosy snug bar with an inviting open fire, and a more lively Tap room bar that offers a good selection of local and craft beers. Rooms are generally well-equipped with a tea tray, coffee maker, and biscuits, which are often replenished. Heating systems vary, with some rooms having plug-in radiators, while others feature newer systems, providing a warm and comfortable environment.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guests generally praise the cleanliness of the rooms, often describing them as spotless and well-maintained. The beds are consistently noted for their comfort, ensuring a restful night's sleep for most. Room decor is often described as quirky and traditional, reflecting the hotel's historic character, though some guests find certain areas to be a little dated or in need of updating. Room sizes vary, with many being spacious, and some offering charming castle views. While most bathrooms are functional, some are noted as being dated, and a few rooms surprisingly lack a shower, offering only a bath with a jug. Noise levels are mixed; while some rooms are quiet, others, particularly those overlooking the high street or courtyard, can experience street noise or disturbances from deliveries and creaky floorboards.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel offers a varied dining experience, with breakfast receiving largely positive reviews for its quality and choice, including both full English and continental options. However, some guests note that the scrambled eggs or black pudding can be disappointing, and vegetarian sausage options are sometimes unavailable. The main restaurant offers dinner, with many guests commending the food quality as excellent and delicious, often highlighting specific dishes. The atmosphere in the dining room is generally described as lovely, often featuring an open fire. However, some guests report slow service and understaffing, leading to delays and occasional issues with food temperature or accuracy. The hotel also offers popular Afternoon Tea experiences, which are well-received.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's central location in Arundel is consistently highlighted as a major advantage, placing guests directly in the heart of the town. It offers excellent proximity to attractions such as the castle, cathedral, and numerous shops and restaurants, all within easy walking distance. While public transit options are available nearby, most guests appreciate the convenience of exploring the town on foot. Parking is available on-site at the rear of the hotel, which is considered a significant bonus by many, providing secure and easy access, though a daily fee applies. The surrounding area is generally described as charming and quiet, especially after evening hours.

Staff & Service
The staff at the hotel receive overwhelmingly positive feedback, frequently described as friendly, helpful, attentive, and professional. Many guests commend their willingness to go above and beyond to ensure a pleasant stay, from assisting with luggage to addressing specific requests. The check-in process is generally efficient, though a few guests have experienced delays or found the process less welcoming. While most interactions are positive, some isolated comments mention indifferent or less communicative staff members. Despite occasional reports of understaffing, particularly in the dining areas, the team is often praised for their hard work and dedication in providing good service.

Additional Information
The hotel is notably pet-friendly, accommodating guests traveling with dogs, with specific arrangements made for dining. It is a popular venue for weddings and other group events, such as reunions, with many guests praising the hotel's ability to host and cater to larger parties effectively. The hotel frequently offers various special deals and packages, such as Easter, Twixmas, Autumn, and Lazy Sunday breaks, which guests find to be excellent value. Some rooms, particularly those on higher floors, may have low ceilings, which is part of the building's historic charm. Guests should be aware that the hotel's heating system may operate on a schedule, with heating typically coming on in the late afternoon.