The Crown and Anchor Dell Quay
We may be a bit biased, but when it comes to gastronomic treats, we’re pretty spoilt for choice here in Sussex. From cosy country pubs and charming vintage tea rooms to beach front cafés and award-winning restaurants, there’s something for everyone-not to mention the wealth of amazing local produce and artisan producers in the area. So here is just a taste of some of our favourite foodie highlights to enjoy during your Sussex escape, focussing this time on West Sussex.
The Horseguards Inn
The Horseguards Inn, Tillington
This is exactly how a Hollywood movie would imagine a quintessential English country pub, with its thoughtfully styled interiors, low beams, cosy corners, roaring log fires and vintage jugs brimming with wild flowers. The garden too is full of rustic charm, with chickens roaming around the tables, a sheepskin strewn hammock and summer house full of vintage finds and quirky curiosities. As for the food, this is not your average pub grub, with a small, seasonal menu of delicious, homemade fare which champions local producers. It’s the perfect place to indulge in some well-earned comfort food after a ramble amongst the deer in the grounds of nearby Petworth Park-just be sure to book ahead!
Upperton Road, Tillington, GU28 9AF www.thehorseguardsinn.co.uk
Crab Shack, Worthing
Laid back and welcoming, this family run seafood restaurant right on Worthing’s seafront is a real find, serving a small, fresh menu which changes daily depending on availability. Warm your cockles during the winter months with their famous (and very generous) Sicilian inspired fish stew, brimming with king prawns, squid, mussels, crevettes and pan-fried sea bass, or bask on the outdoor terrace with some crispy squid washed down with a glass or two of rosé once the sun comes out again, taking in the sea view.
2 Marine Parade, Worthing, BN11 3PN www.crabshackworthing.co.uk
Cowdray Park Café and Farm Shop
Situated on the 16,500 acre Cowdray Park estate (the home of British polo), this is a great spot for an informal lunch, hearty breakfast or afternoon tea. All the food is freshly prepared, and the menu features produce from the estate or local producers as much as possible. And while you’re there don’t miss a visit to the farm shop, well-stocked with Sussex bounties and with a fantastic deli counter, butchery and on-site bakery. You can even order your own rather exclusive picnic hamper featuring favourites like Cowdray’s own quiches or fruit scones with Cowdray jam and clotted cream. Which rather beats soggy sandwiches and a packet of salt and vinegar crisps.
Cowdray Park, Midhurst, GU29 0AJ www.cowdray.co.uk
Crab Shack
The Crown and Anchor, Dell Quay
With a superb waterfront location overlooking Chichester Harbour, this lovely 16th century pub has both a fabulous restaurant serving lots of fresh seasonal delights, and during the summer months an alfresco kitchen, The Crab & Burger Shack, for more informal fare to enjoy on the terrace. As you would expect, the seafood is fantastic, but even if you’re not dining the views make this the perfect spot to stop for a sundowner, or two.
Dell Quay Road, Apuldram, Chichester PO20 7EE www.crownandanchorchichester.com
The Hollist Arms, Lodsworth
Expect to be greeted with a warm welcome at this pretty village pub. Good honest home cooked food (think ale battered hake, Sussex sirloin steak and chips, pie of the day), a great selection of local ales and very child and dog-friendly, it’s the ideal pitstop during a day spent exploring this very picturesque area of the South Downs.
The Street, Lodsworth, GU28 9BZ www.thehollistarms.com
Cowdray Cafe
Billy’s on the Beach, Bracklesham Bay
A little local gem, to be found a couple of miles east of the glorious sands of West Wittering. Serving simple, unfussy dishes which are freshly made, it has a really fun and relaxed atmosphere. Enjoy a beach burrito or some fritto misto with a beer while the kids tuck in to something from the pretty extensive children’s menu (if you can get them off the beach, that is). And it’s a great spot to enjoy the sunset too, with views across the water to the Isle of Wight.
Bracklesham Lane, Bracklesham Bay, Chichester, PO20 8JH www.billysonthebeach.co.uk
East Beach Café, Littlehampton
This eye-catching Dali-esque building, designed to look like a piece of weathered driftwood, is a great spot for a bite to eat, coffee or ice cream after a walk along the UK’s longest beach. Classic seaside favourites on the menu include fish and chips with pea purée and locally caught fish, and they also do a mean bacon sandwich at breakfast. If weather permits grab a takeaway from the kiosk and head back to the beach to enjoy, in true British seaside holiday style.
Sea Road, Littlehampton, BN17 5GB www.eastbeachcafe.co.uk
Why not book your Sussex getaway now and discover your own favourite foodie destinations? Whether you’re looking to escape to a luxurious home from home, enjoy a relaxing countryside break or explore Sussex’s rolling hills, picturesque towns and villages and stunning coastline, you can be sure of an unforgettable stay in any of our handpicked stylish stays and boutique boltholes.
Explore our properties here now and start planning your escape.
By Rebecca Thomas 2018 West Sussex