You cannot beat a cosy pub in the countryside, especially at Christmas. With good food locally sourced, drink from surrounding vineyards and breweries, a warming atmosphere and often a crackling fire in the corner, they are a must-visit when you’re on holiday.
Sussex is a beautifully historic county with its winding lanes and open countryside views, sometimes even a coastal view depending where you are. When staying in Sussex you are bound to explore a castle or two, visit Lewes or Battle and maybe even Chichester? Then there is of course the South Downs Way, a one hundred mile footpath from Eastbourne to Winchester encompassing gorgeous coastal views and stunning countryside, which you can dip in and out of at your leisure.
Whatever you decide to do while on holiday in Sussex you are most likely going to want to find somewhere with good food and a welcoming atmosphere to enjoy a drink and a meal, so without delay here are our top suggestions of cosy pubs in Sussex.
The Noah's Ark, Lurgashall
On the border of Surrey and West Sussex, this quaint 16th century pub offers delicious seasonal food on an ever-changing menu with the option to sit by roaring fire for extra cosiness. It is a short drive away from Ebernoe Common Nature Reserve where you will find plenty of footpaths, perfect for a dog walk followed by a pub lunch. They also have outdoor seating for the warmer months.
Stay nearby: The Old Stables, Chichester
The Cricketers Arms, Berwick
Located just off the main road between Lewes and Eastbourne, this charming country pub serves up a variety of delicious food and their Sunday lunches are particularly good. The pub is just above part of the South Downs Way and close to the Long Man of Wilmington, making it a perfect pit stop for a bite to eat. Booking ahead is highly recommended.
Stay nearby: Danny Cottage, Alfriston
The Eight Bells, Hailsham
The Eight Bells is in the bustling town of Hailsham and surrounded by some fantastic places to visit, Knockhatch Adventure Park, Arlington Bluebell walk and farm trail and Herstmonceux Castle being just a few. All the produce is bought from local suppliers and the bar has its fair share of local drinks ready for you to try.
Stay nearby: Moorhen Cottage, Wartling
The George, Burpham
This ever-so-English looking country pub in the gorgeous village of Burpham with stunning views of the South Downs Way. Enjoy a drink by the crackling fire and a delicious seasonal pub meal to tickle the tastebuds after a day of adventuring. While in the area why not take a trip to Arundel Castle or even the Goodwood Festival of Speed during the summer?
Stay nearby: The Old Stables, Chichester
The Gardeners Arms, Ardingly
The Gardeners Arms is a 17th century pub that really makes the most of the seasons. The garden in the summer is carefully looked after to create a beautiful backdrop to your meal, followed by the winter which brings the crackling log fire in the oak beamed rooms. Nearby is the Ouse Valley Viaduct which is a wonderful feature to include in a walk, in the other direction there is Standen House and Garden with events happening year round.
Stay nearby: Woodpeckers Cottage, Forest Row
The George Inn, Robertsbridge
The George is very passionate about their food, with everything sourced locally from surrounding farms and nearby fishing villages like Rye and Hastings. Their bar is stocked with local ales and award winning wines from vineyards in Sussex, alongside all the usual suspects you’d expect. If you are in need of somewhere to visit during the day why not check out Sedlescombe Vineyard, Bodiam Castle, or the beautiful Great Dixter House and Gardens, one of the many lovely gardens in Sussex?
Stay nearby: Castlemans Stables East and West, Battle
Does the sound of sampling the cosy pubs of Sussex tickle your tastebuds accompanied by visiting some fantastic locations in the county? If so, check out our places to stay in Sussex to make your holiday that extra bit special.
