Arundel Castle was built by Roger Montgomery, Earl of Shrewsbury, shortly after the Norman Conquest, to defend the Arun Valley against raids from the sea. It has been the seat of the Dukes of Norfolk and Earls of Arundel ever since.

The title Duke of Norfolk was created by King Richard III on Sir John Howard in 1483 and carries with it's title the Earl of Arundel. Following damage during the Civil War the restoration of the castle was eventually completed in 1890.

Every year the castle plays host to the Arundel Festival which attracts many international artists.