Best Cosy Pubs in Sussex

The historic English country pub with its barrels of real ale, hearty country fayre and dogs lying by a log fire is still a highlight for people touring the villages and countryside of Sussex. Travel to the centre of most villages and you will find a pub dating back several hundred years, with low wooden beams, broad inglenook fireplaces, York stone floors and a landlord offering you a friendly welcome.

While the interiors may be historic, the wine and cuisine on offer has undergone a renaissance in recent years. Most pubs offer a long list of craft local ales, fine wines and gourmet food for their discerning customers. We’ve rounded up our favourite local pubs to stop by after a country walk, enjoy a Sunday lunch or try some delicious Sussex ales...

Operating as a local tavern since the late 1700's, visiting The Royal Oak pub in Wineham is like stepping back into time. Mind your head as you enter its low-beamed public bar, complete with old barrel staves, an inglenook fireplace, exposed beams and a brick floor. The building itself dates back to the 1400’s and the owners have ensured that many of the original features are still in place, making this an outstanding pub of national historic interest.

Along with their food and drink offering, many an evening can been spent browsing the interesting contraptions that sit upon the shelves, whilse imagining how life was for those who used them. Folk groups and Morris Men are often on site to offer traditional entertainment, along with local live brands and seasonal events which makes a return trip worth it every time.

Hidden down a country road that meanders deeper and deeper into the West Sussex countryside, you will reach the picturesque village of Burpham. Perched on the arm of the River Arun and boasting a population of just 145 residents, The George pub stands proudly at its heart. Offering freshly cooked, locally sourced and seasonal produce throughout the year, its recent new ownership promises to continue to put 'localness' at the centre of everything they do.

Situated a stones throw from the ancient village green which sits inside an ancient Saxon Fort, Burpham also enjoys a large childrens playground and miles of footpaths across the South Downs. A popular place to stop during a walk or a cycle ride, visitors come to enjoy the peace and tranquillity, and will leave feeling happy and fulfilled after visiting this charming village pub.

Nestled in the South Downs near Albourne, The Ginger Fox sits just seven miles north of Brighton. Serving high-quality, seasonal dishes that make the most of surrounding Sussex produce, guests can expect the finest local fish and meat, county ales and award-winning wines from Ridgeview; a vineyard that lies just a stones throw away in Ditchling.

Featured in the Michelin Guide and Good Food Guide and Hardens, this gastro pub is from the same stable as the Gingerman Restaurant and the Ginger Pig pub in Brighton. Boasting an outstanding reputation, a beautiful beer garden and wonderful views of the surrounding countryside, if the weather permits we recommend dining alfresco. Plus don’t forget to look out for the graceful fox that dances across the thatched roof!

The Barley Mow in Selmeston, East Sussex, combines an excellent choice of food served in an historic rural location with a large garden and a huge children’s play area that that all ages can enjoy. Originally one of the oldest coaching inns in Sussex, it sits midway between Eastbourne and Brighton, at the base of the South Downs National Park. With a footpath leading directly up into the hills, this child-friendly pub is the ideal pub to incorporate into a refreshing country walk.

Its superb menu offers home cooked, locally sourced food, including all the usual pub classics to ensure that the whole family will be easily catered for. Plus with an outside bar, live music events, an annual Hog Roast in the Summer, as well as an outside ice-cream shack (which is always a favourite with the children) this family-friendly freehouse offers excellent value for money and a great option for a day out in Sussex.

Perched on the banks of the Arun river, the Black Rabbit pub has wonderful views over the wetlands, across to Arundel Castle and beyond. With a cosy terrace that runs alongside the riverbank, they also have a laid back garden area to relax in whilst sipping your drink and enjoying the company of loved ones.

A popular spot with locals, as well as visitors to the popular town of Arundel, the Black Rabbit is cosy in the winter and glorious in the summer. Complete with roaring log fires to warm you up after a winters stroll, it is also home to the boat from Harry Potter & The Philosophers Stone, which can be enjoyed in the warmer weather. Along with being one of the best dog-friendly pubs in Sussex, every waggy tail that comes through the door is welcomed with open arms (and treats) and treated as one of the family.

If you are looking for a spellbinding stay in the heart of East Sussex, one of the best pubs with rooms is The Bell in Ticehurst. With names such as ‘Anything is Possible' and ‘Hush of Trees’, its seven eclectic bedrooms are curiously decorated and enjoy generous ensuites with deep copper baths, sinfully comfortable super king size beds and their own range of luxury toiletries.

The story of The Bell stretches back to around 1560, however over the years it has been remodelled and extended, smoothing out the rougher edges but preserving the wonderful imperfections and historical charm. With menus that change with the seasons, alongside their exceptional Sunday roasts, they offer an exclusive five-course tasting menu which takes guests on a culinary journey from the sea to the lands of Sussex.

An extraordinary place to celebrate a special occasion, The Bell is comfortable and welcoming, and promises to treat its guests a stay that is anything other than ordinary!