6 of the best pubs on the South Downs
Whether you are walking the South Downs Way, or are simply looking to head out for a delicious meal somewhere in the South Downs National Park, we have curated a list of the very best pubs and restaurants on the South Downs for your dining pleasure.
The Bugle Inn – Twyford
The Bugle Inn is located just outside Winchester in Twyford and describes itself as an 18th Century coaching inn. They offer a selection of dishes created using locally sourced produce and their menu changes daily to reflect this.
You can expect to try locally brewed ales from their three microbrewers, paired with a range of British and French dishes to suit your tastes.
The Bugle Inn offers both a lunch and dinner menu, you are likely to spend around £35pp for a three-course meal and the menu caters for vegetarians and those who require gluten-free options also.
Guests describe the Bugle as offering “great service and excellent, tasty food” with others adding that they do “the best Sunday roast around”.
The Deer’s Hut – Liphook
The Deer’s Hut has made it onto our list of the best pubs on the South Downs thanks to its quintessential British atmosphere, fantastic food, and glowing reviews.
With dietary options aplenty, whether your guests are vegan, vegetarian or gluten-free, The Deer’s Hut has something to offer for everyone.
On a winter’s day, you will likely be able to warm up by the cosy fireplaces whilst tasting some of their exceptional takes on British pub food.
You can expect a three-course meal to set you back around £30pp prior to service charges etc…
Guests describe The Deer’s Hut as a “nice pub in a fabulous location” that serves “superb Sunday roasts”.
Farmer Butcher Chef – Chichester
Referred to as “Goodwood’s Sustainable Restaurant” this exquisite spot is located on the edge of the South Downs and champions seasonal English produce at the heart of their menu.
Every piece of meat is farmed on the Goodwood Estate, and the resident butcher John is heavily involved in the design process of each dish according to which cuts are available, meaning nothing goes to waste.
Both the food and atmosphere are divine, and you can expect to find some truly imaginative dishes that you may never have tried before.
Their 4 menu options (A La Carte, Set Lunch, Young Farmer and Sunday A La Carte) means you are spoilt for choice, and with a Pre Theatre/Set Lunch menu available, you can try the Farmer Butcher Chef from just £14.95pp.
Guests describe the Farmer Butcher Chef as offering “beautifully cooked and presented food”.
Welldiggers Arms – Petworth
The Welldiggers Arms is located just outside the beautiful town of Petworth and has more than earned its spot on this list of the best pubs on the South Downs with its stunning views, delicious food, and beautiful garden.
The pub describes itself as a “true country pub, serving local real ales, spirits and cider as well as fresh, locally-sourced British cuisine”.
The restaurant features an open kitchen, a popular hit with adults and children alike, allowing you to watch the chefs at work over a glass of wine (or juice).
You are also able to hire their private dining room with seating for up to 8 guests, ideal for special occasions.
For an average three-course meal at the Welldiggers you are looking at around £29pp, about in line with the other members of our “best pubs on the South Downs” list.
Guests describe the Welldiggers Arms as being “friendly and welcoming with a spectacular view”.
The Black Horse – Amberley
The Black Horse is situated just off of the South Downs Way in the village of Amberley and boasts its original grade 2 listed features, refurbished in a tasteful and elegant, yet cosy way.
The owners, Emma and Johnnie are passionate about design and hospitality and have created an area that they themselves would love to drink sleep and eat in.
At the Black Horse, you will find a truly relaxed atmosphere, complete with roaring fires over the colder months and spectacular views over the South Downs.
The Black Horse also offers the option of a private dining room, catering for up to 20 guests.
You can expect to pay around £36pp for a standard three-course meal and they too offer a range of vegetarian and gluten-free options.
Guests describe The Black Horse as being a “charming pub in a charming village” and offering “great food in a lovely setting”.
The Pelham Arms – Lewes
The last on our list of the best pubs on the South Downs is the Pelham Arms, located in Lewes, West Sussex.
They are Lewes’ first smokehouse within a pub and have been curing their own meats for years. Their burgers feature hand-ground beef and they have been using local suppliers since the very beginning.
You will likely be able to give their very own “Abyss” brews a taste, perfect for an afternoon in the garden over a hearty burger.
For the non-meat lovers in your family, they offer a plethora of vegan options from chickpea burgers to spiced lentil dhals. There is something for everyone.
You can expect a meal in this South Downs stop off to cost you roughly £25pp.
Guests describe The Pelham Arms as having “super service and absolutely delicious vegan options”.
We hope you enjoyed this rundown of the best pubs on the South Downs. If you are looking for something a little closer to the South Downs Way itself then we suggest you head to our Food page which provides a rundown of the pubs, restaurants and cafes in each area.
(Please note that prices are a rough guide and exclude drinks or service charges. For more accurate prices based on your individual preferences, please visit your chosen pub’s website.)