Temporarily closed for Sanctuary use. Open for pilgrim visits during the day.
St. Nicholas Parish Church, London Rd, Arundel BN18 9AT
An ancient parish church with a long tradition of hosting pilgrims, now with simple modern facilities.
Recommended minimum donation: £12
Season: Year round, no Saturdays
Capacity: 12
Notice: 2 weeks
Arrival: Before 8pm
Departure:
Temporarily closed for Sanctuary use. Open for pilgrim visits during the day.
Situated on the edge of the South Downs National Park, the historic town of Arundel is a popular destination for visitors from around the world. Sitting on top of the hill next to Arundel castle is Arundel’s ancient parish church. Built in 1380 and dedicated to St Nicholas, the patron saint of sailors, it has welcomed many pilgrims over the centuries. Judging by the marks they left behind, which include the ancient monogram of St Richard, many of these were heading to or from the saint’s shrine at Chichester Cathedral.
St Nicholas’ is pleased to be able to offer modern-day pilgrims sanctuary in the church. As a busy, working church, other activities may be going on while pilgrims are staying at the church; for example, bell practice, choir practice, church services. Pilgrims are able to sleep in a variety of areas around the church. Please note, however, that much of the floor is stone. An email detailing the sex and age of other pilgrims staying at the church will be sent to pilgrims seven days before arrival. Pilgrims may cancel within 24 hours of receiving this email if they wish and a full refund will be given.
The church is not heated during the warmer months (roughly April to October depending on the weather). During the winter the church is heated to a minimum of 15º C, although please be aware that in very cold weather the temperature in the church may drop at little below this level.
A member of the church community will be on hand to welcome pilgrims. We ask that an expected time of arrival is given when booking. Should pilgrims not be able to keep to this time the telephone number of the welcomer will be provided so that they can be kept informed.
There are two toilets in the church with hand basins. There is an area for simple food preparation. This includes a microwave, toaster, fridge and facilities for making tea/coffee etc. Tea, coffee and milk are provided free of charge. A small selection of breakfast cereals are also provided free of charge. Pilgrims are expected to wash up and tidy away any crockery used and leave the area in a clean and tidy condition.
Sanctuary for single groups of 12 or more people is possible upon application to the Parish Office.
Donations must be made in advance by debit or credit card or via online bank transfer by contacting the parish office.
Sanctuary is not usually available on Saturday nights
No Smoking
Proof of ID required
Children are welcome but must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
Animals are not permitted.