Planning a getaway is always exciting. Whilst jetting off overseas certainly has its appeal, Britain boasts countless stunning destinations worth discovering.

One travel enthusiast has turned to TikTok to reveal her top pick for a UK day out to a ‘real-life fairytale castle’. Aleksandra, who shares content under @aleksandra10s on TikTok, posted footage of the ‘hidden gem’ with her followers, describing it as “one of the largest and most complete castles in England” in “pristine” condition with “beautiful” gardens. The location in question? Arundel Castle, situated in Sussex.

Aleksandra shared video of the castle’s magnificent grounds in a clip accompanied by Disney’s ‘Beauty and the Beast’ soundtrack.

She said: “Arundel Castle, in Sussex, is a real-life fairytale castle in pristine condition and beautiful gardens. One of the largest and most complete castles in England, it’s a gem worth visiting.”

The stronghold is a restored and reconstructed medieval fortification that was originally established by Roger de Montgomery in the 11th century. Followers adored the footage as numerous people disclosed they had also relished visiting the castle.

One viewer said: “I love Arundel Castle, one of my favourite places to visit.”

Meanwhile another concurred: “Such a magical place like a real-life fairytale.” A third observed: “I live 10 minutes down the road and still love walking past it.”

The castle, which endured the harsh blows of the English Civil War, was meticulously restored in the 18th and early 19th centuries by Charles Howard, the 11th Duke of Norfolk. Further improvements were made from the 1890s by Charles Alban Buckler for the 15th Duke. This grand castle has been home to the Earls of Arundel and the Dukes of Norfolk since the 11th century. It also holds the prestigious status of being a Grade I listed building.

Those eager to explore this historic site will have to wait until 2026 as the 2025 season only runs until Sunday, 2 November.

The gardens and the Fitzalan Chapel are open from 10.00am – 5.00pm. The Keep can be visited from 10.00am – 4.30pm and Castle rooms are accessible between 12.00 noon – 5.00pm. Visitors should note that last admission is at 4.00pm and the castle is closed on Mondays, except bank holidays and in August. Tickets can be purchased online or on the day at the ticket office (payment by credit or debit card only).

Arundel Castle has a 4.6 rating on TripAdvisor with one person writing: ” The whole experience was brilliant. The staff were extremely good – helpful, friendly, informative and caring.”

Another said: “Well it was a castle that just kept giving! Luckily we visited on a sunny day (which I’m sure helps), but the gardens were absolutely stunning! Every time you thought you’d seen it all, there was another section. With the blue skies and beautiful plants and features, it was like we were visiting the Royal Alcazar in Seville! The keep and the castle were both amazing, with so much to see.”

A third added: “My 5 out of 5 was for the beautiful Castle gardens which are magnificent. Only part of the Castle is really old medieval the rest is 19th century for the Norfolk family to show off their wealth. The same goes for the Cathedral. If you love stately homes showing off their wealth then no doubt this will appeal.”