Best Places to See When Driving from Arun, England to Bradenham, England

If you are planning a road trip from Arun to Bradenham, you are in luck. This 2-hour drive takes you through beautiful English countryside, picturesque towns, and stunning landscapes. There are plenty of things to see and do along the way, and this post includes some of the best attractions. So, buckle up, turn up the music, and get ready to explore some of England's hidden gems.

1. West Dean Gardens

The first stop on our list is the West Dean Gardens, in Chichester. These impressive gardens are a must-visit attraction for anyone interested in horticulture, nature, history, or simply wants a peaceful stroll among beautiful flowers and plants. The gardens are spread over 90 acres and are divided into a dozen different sections, including the walled kitchen garden, the sunken garden, the ornamental garden, and the arboretum. Each area has a unique character, with different plants, colors, and scents.

Take a guided tour to learn more about the history of the place and its eccentric owners or simply wander around at your own pace. Make sure to stop by the Victorian greenhouse, the stumpery, and the cutting garden. If you are visiting during the summer, you might catch a live music performance or an outdoor cinema event.

2. Petworth House and Park

Next, stop at the Petworth House and Park, located near the town of Petworth. This impressive mansion was built in the 17th century by the Egremont family and features an extensive art collection, including works by Turner, Van Dyck, and Reynolds, among others. The house is open to visitors, who can admire the sumptuous interiors, the elegant furniture, and the impressive décor.

The Petworth estate also includes a vast park, which offers numerous outdoor activities, such as cycling, walking, fishing, and picnicking. The park features a serene lake, a walled garden, and various follies and sculptures. Kids will love the adventure playground, which includes a zip wire, slides, and climbing frames.

3. Amberley Museum

The third stop on our list is the Amberley Museum, located near the village of Amberley. This open-air museum offers a fascinating insight into the industrial heritage of the South Downs. The site includes numerous historic buildings, such as a blacksmith's forge, a railway station, a printing shop, and a electricity hall.

Visitors can learn about the history of transport, communications, and manufacturing and see demonstrations of traditional crafts, such as pottery, weaving, and woodturning. Kids will enjoy taking a ride on the narrow-gauge railway, the trolleybus, or the vintage bus. The museum hosts various events throughout the year, such as steam weekends, craft fairs, and Christmas markets.

4. St Mary's Church, Chiselhampton

Our fourth stop is the St Mary's Church, located in the village of Chiselhampton. This ancient church dates back to the 12th century and offers a glimpse of England's rich religious heritage. The church features an impressive Norman doorway, a 13th-century font, and wall paintings from the 14th and 16th centuries.

Visitors can admire the stained-glass windows, the carved wooden pulpit, and the medieval tombs. The church has a peaceful and contemplative atmosphere and is a perfect place to relax and reflect. The church is open to visitors during daytime hours and welcomes people of all faiths and none.

5. Bradenham Village

Our final stop is the charming Bradenham village, located near the town of High Wycombe. This idyllic village is surrounded by rolling hills, lush green meadows, and ancient woodlands. The village features several historic buildings, such as the 17th-century vicarage, the 18th-century schoolhouse, and the 19th-century chapel.

Visitors can take a leisurely stroll along the country lanes, stop by the local pub for a pint of ale, or have a picnic in the village green. The village hosts various events throughout the year, such as art exhibitions, music festivals, and flower shows.

Conclusion

This concludes our list of the best places to see when driving from Arun to Bradenham. Whether you are interested in history, art, nature, or simply want to experience the English countryside, this road trip has something for everyone. So, pack your bags, start your engine, and enjoy a memorable journey through some of England's hidden treasures.