Superlative views, beautiful fare and hearty welcomes are just what an explorer needs when seeking out somewhere to warm up and sate their appetite. Sussex has a vast array of pubs to visit.

From whitewashed stone pubs on windswept shorelines to beamed pubs nestling at the foot of The South Downs, there are so many to explore. In fact, according to The Beer Guild, Brighton alone has 207 pubs – the most of any town or city in the county. Arundel also gets kudos as having the most pubs per capital in Sussex with a ratio of 276 people to one pub.

It was a difficult undertaking to pick out our favourite five but we choose establishments that are a short drive from The Grain Store Lewes and we know will offer a moreish experience.

The White Hart, Lewes

After a year’s renovation – and a reported £4 million spend - this 16th Century coaching inn on Lewes’ stunning High Street is already winning plaudits. This pub is full of character including witch marks etched into the window frame of one room to ward off any curses, shares James Stewart from The Times. The food offering is seasonal and fresh. What better than pheasant and venison sausage with truffle mash and chestnut mushrooms on a chilly day?

Visit https://whitehartlewes.com/menus/

The Pelham Arms, Lewes

Handmade burgers, perfect small plates, soul-filling big plates and a mouth-watering desert offering are all on the menu at The Pelham Arms. This pub has a reputation for championing local suppliers including wines from some of Sussex’s beautiful vineyards. Bottles from Court Garden (where you can also watch opera!) and Ridgeview are on the list; as well as goodies from Flour Pot Bakery and Bodiam Meats. Wander in after an afternoon exploring Lewes (and here’s our handy tips to help with your adventure).

Visit https://www.thepelhamarms.co.uk/

The Jolly Sportsman, East Chiltington

This is a bucolic gem that the locals want to keep to themselves. Tucked down a windy lane, this lovely pub has been at the centre of life in this tiny hamlet since the late 18th Century. It boosts a beautiful garden but in the chillier months, the inside of the pub is stylish but homely. Apparently, it was a hub for a folk music revival in the latter half of the 19th Century; and the pub still hosts events that bring people together – from winter festivals to its Wine Society. On that – the pub offers a staggering 50 different wines, including local names. It is also a superb stop-off if you are planning a Sussex ramble.

Visit https://www.thejollysportsman.com/

The Star, Alfriston

*Image credit:* *sussex.muddystilettos.co.uk*

Alfirston is one of our favourite Sussex villages, built along the meandering Cuckmere River and walking distance to Seven Sisters Park and its chalk cliffs. Originally built in 1345 to house pilgrims on their way from Battle Abbey, this inn is a perfect blend of historical and chic. Owners Olga and Alex Polizzi have built strong relationships with local craftsmen and it shows in the stunning details from the metalwork lights to the kaleidoscope of colours in the soft furnishings. It promises simple, unfussy Sussex fare, including picnic hampers for the more clement months.

Visit https://thepolizzicollection.com/the-star/

The Ram, Firle

This brick and flint building is rich in atmosphere inside. Set in the heart of a stunning and quiet village, it is in walking distance from Firle Beacon, Firle place and is a superb stop off on the South Downs Way. Local, fresh ingredients are at the heart of the fare here and the owners share that even the local vicar plays a part, bringing the chef buckets of prawns and mackerel from his summer fishing trips. The menus change daily and the pub is open from 9am for breakfast if you fancy stocking up before heading to the hills.

Visit https://raminn.co.uk/