The Royal Oak

Well worth seeking out, this part-tiled, black-and-white timbered cottage dates back to the 14th century and stands tucked away on a quiet country lane between the A272 and B2116 near Henfield. It's a classic ale house, a true rural survivor that has been serving the locals for 300 years and is delightfully traditional and unspoilt in every way. Head-cracking low beams, huge inglenook with warming winter fire, brick and stone-flagged floors, rustic furnishings and time-honoured pub games (no music or machines) characterise the charming bar and tiny rear room. Harvey's and Dark Star ales are drawn straight from the drum and home-cooked pub food ranges from rare roast beef ploughman's and cauliflower cheese to roast duck with green beans and an orange and Grand Marnier sauce and cracking Sunday roasts. Extensive gardens for summer alfresco drinking.