The Old Swan and Minster Mill

The South East of England is green and pleasant. It’s got some of the UK’s headline cities and towns and top attractions, plus a beautiful stretch of coastline and a rolling rural and part forested interior of bluebell woods, chalk hills and thatched-roofed villages. A good way to ensure that you see the region properly is to travel the old highways and byways and stay in the South East’s old coaching houses, inns and pubs. There’s plenty to choose from on our Guru’s list, and staying in this kind of historic accommodation is a great way to meet local people as well as see more of the countryside. The recommendations on our list of the best pubs with rooms in the South East offer sustenance — some to a Michelin star standard — comfort, be it simple or luxurious, and a friendly welcome. Whether you’re travelling through Kent, Berkshire, Surrey, Hampshire, Oxfordshire, Sussex or Buckinghamshire we’ve found a great pub with rooms to try out.

For a romantic stay

The Crown Inn

  • The Crown Inn in Chiddingford, Surrey, sits, ivy clad, on the edge of the green of this picturesque English village. Inside the 14th century building there are plenty of beautiful original features, like exposed beams, flagstone floors, huge fireplaces and four-poster beds. The restaurant is AA rated.
  • The Trout at Tadpole Bridge is a fantastically welcoming country inn with its own section of river and a private mooring for guests. There are six rooms around a pretty courtyard and a AA rosette restaurant. You’re also close to Blenheim Palace and William Morris’ Kelmscott Manor.
  • The Old Swan and Minster Mill is a converted mill with traditional charm, period features and 60 acres of woodlands and its own orchards. There’s a riverside garden and opportunities to fish from the grounds, plus a dining rooms and gastro pub.
  • The Angel in Midhurst is a beautiful, Georgian coaching inn, recently refurbished, but to highlight many of its wonderful original features. Some of the 15 rooms have spectacular views. The food is inventive and the bar is lively.

For Foodies

  • The Waterside Inn in Bray is a fantastic choice for foodies, run by Michel and Alain Roux and with three Michelin stars, this is about as gourmet at the UK gets. The eleven rooms and suites are sumptuous and start from around £220 per night. It might seem a bit tenuous to include it in a list of the best pubs with rooms in Berkshire, but it would be churlish not to!
  • The Mermaid Inn is an historic, 13th century inn right in the centre of Rye. The whole place oozes period charm, from the black and white Tudor exterior to the carved four-poster beds, sloping, beamed ceilings and vast fireplaces. The food gets a 2 AA Rosette rating.
  • Chichester’s Royal Oak is a charming, 200 year old inn which has become a bit more of a restaurant with rooms - the award-wining food was so good it overshadowed the bar. But we’re including it anyway because it still has all the requisite features and is a great spot for couples looking for a country escape.

For Walkers

crab and lobster

  • The Crab and Lobster in Sidlesham is a 16th century inn on the edge of Pagham Harbour Nature Reserve, with smart contemporary interiors. The restaurant is very popular - and well stocked with local supplies, and the views over the salt marshes are very peaceful.
  • The Horse Guards Inn is a wonderfully homely inn on the outskirts of the 700 acre Petworth House Estate in the South Downs National Park. There are just three rooms and the atmosphere is cosy and welcoming.
  • The Lamb Inn is a charming, 18th century Cotswolds inn with a beautiful rose-scented garden, large fireplaces which are roaring and lovely in the season, and 17 spacious rooms with antique furniture and original wood floors. There’s also an award-winning restaurant and great birdwatching opportunities.

The Lamb Inn

  • Newbury’s The Crab and Boar is an historic pub in a beautiful rural setting - this is the perfect pub with rooms for walkers. There are just 14 rooms, with cosy, contemporary decor - and some with outdoor hot tubs! There’s also a relaxed restaurant. Rooms start from around £130 per night.
  • The Bell is a charming pub/ restaurant/ nine room boutique hotel, with excellent access to the beautiful Cotswolds. You’re also close to Oxford and Blenheim Palace.
  • The Dundas Arms in Kintbury, in the North Downs, is a Grade II listed Georgian inn on the picturesque banks of the Kennet. The decor is classic country house hotel with feature wallpapers and luxurious bathrooms and there’s a formal dining room as well as the pub.

For a complete escape

the white horse inn

  • The White Horse Inn near Chichester is a cosy and charming inn offering 14 rustic, but elegant rooms and the option to have a private terrace with hot tub. The gardens boast panoramic views over the rolling Sussex countryside. The restaurant has a superb wine list, and the whole place is pet friendly.
  • Arundel’s Swan Hotel is a charming local inn in a great spot. There are 14 rooms, decorated with simple, neutral luxury. The pub is cosy and the restaurant specialises in seasonal fare.

the olde bell inn

  • The Olde Bell Inn in Hurley, is a hearty, traditional old inn - one of the oldest in England, hence the extra ‘e’ - with a gastropub restaurant, tennis courts and crisp bedrooms with lots of natural light. Great for riverbank strolling. Rooms start from around £125 per night.
  • The George in Rye is historic, but very newly refurbished, so now you can expect all the modern, stylish trims inside a charming Georgian building. Each room is individual, and the atmosphere is relaxed.

The Best Value Pubs with Rooms in the South East

The Bedford Arms

  • Not only affordable, but also family friendly, The Bedford Arms on the Herfordshire/Buckinghamshire border offers beautifully styled rooms with a country chic feel and plenty of character throughout. The restaurant serves classic pub grub and there are loads of attractions close by.
  • The Miller of Mansfield in Goring on Thames is a traditional, ivy-clad village inn with an acclaimed restaurant and 15 individually designed rooms and suites. Many of them overlook the river.
  • Amersham’s The Crown Inn is a modern coaching inn, converted from a more traditional coaching inn, on the end of the Metropolitan Line, around 40minutes from central London, with 23 rooms, good food and plenty of character. Room 12 is the only room which retains a traditional feel - and you might even recognise it from the film ‘Four Weddings and a Funeral’… Romantic and affordable.
  • The Ship Inn in Rye, is a laid back pub with a Michelin recommendation and ten simple rooms. It’s a traditional pub with all the best kind of details: exposed beams, wooden floors and solid, but weathered, furniture.
  • The Five Arrows is another old coaching inn offering great food and great value. This time it's located near Aylesbury, on the borders of the Rothschild’s Waddesdon Manor estate. Some of the rooms have four poster beds.

If you haven’t found your idea of the best pubs with rooms in the South East on our Guru’s list you could:

The 25 Best Pubs with Rooms in the South East of the UK

Crab and Lobster

West Sussex (West Sussex)

Contemporary waterside 16th Century Inn on the banks of Pagham Harbour Nature Reserve. Chic rooms ooze elegance and simple country charm. Enjoy a menu centred around locally landed fish and locally reared meats. A truly romantic escape with views over the salt marshes.

  • Foodies - Wonderfully falvoursome cuisine, with seafood from the local fisherman, meat from the local farms and honey from the neighbours!
  • Country Escape - An ideal country escape, with plush rooms, mouthwatering cuisine, roaring fires in the cosy bar and plenty of local walking.
  • Great walks - Burn off some calories between lunch and dinner with an afternoon stroll on West Wittering's pebbly beach.
  • Birdwatching - Binoculars and a telescope are provided for spotting local birds and animals.
from £160 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Royal Oak

West Sussex (East Lavant)

Charming 200 year old village inn turned popular restaurant with rooms in a quiet village. Cosy rooms with delicate pretty wallpaper and beamed ceilings. Downstairs a small bar pulls a good pint but the restaurant is the real showstopper. A lovely country escape.

  • Country Escape - Ideally placed for country pursuits such as rambling, fishing and shooting, with hearty food and cosy interiors to return to.
  • Foodies - Feast at the award winning restaurant, serving fresh, local and totally seasonal produce- a fine example of British cooking.
  • Great walks - Bring your wellies and a packed lunch from the hotel and head out to explore the stunning landscape of the South Downs.
  • Sights nearby - Explore the nearby Kingley Vale, home to one of Europe's most impressive and oldest yew forests.
from £155 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
The George in Rye

Rye (Rye)

A 16th-century inn turned into a chic gastropub & hotel in historic Rye. Designer owners have given the place a truly individual touch. Expect vintage finds, patterned wallpapers, copper bathtubs & plenty of character. The bar is popular locally and the pub offers good British fare. A stylish stay.

  • Boutique - A 16th-century inn with a twist — expect cool vintage finds, a gastro pub, and added luxuries like copper bathtubs
  • Chic - A favourite of Clooney, Costner and other Hollywood movie stars — this is an undeniably chic British inn
  • Short break - Trains to London take around an hour, making this an ideal choice for a quick weekend getaway
  • Romantic Break - For a romantic getaway pick one of the rooms with an in-room bathtub
from £150 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
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Griffin Inn

East Sussex

Very popular village gastropub with excellent food and 13 comfortable rooms, many with 4 posters, in picturesque Fletching, with fabulous views over the Ouse valley. Ideal for families.

  • Restaurant
  • Views - Lovely garden views over Sheffield Park
  • Full of character
from £90 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Miller of Mansfield

Oxfordshire

Traditional ivy-covered inn in village setting. Acclaimed restaurant, bar, individually designed suites, Overlooking the river.

  • Romantic
  • Restaurant
  • Traditional
  • Restaurant with rooms
from £90 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
The Lamb Inn, Burford

Burford

This 18th century inn is more than just another Cotswolds B&B. Curl up with a book next to an open fire or explore the rose scented gardens. Rooms are spacious with antique oak furniture and colourful fabric. Bathrooms have original wood floors. An award winning restaurant serves seasonal cuisine.

  • Foodies - Don't miss the 2AA Rosette restaurant which serves fantastic seasonal British cuisine
  • Great walks - Combine a walk through this typical Cotswolds town with a traditional cream tea.
  • Sights nearby - The university town of Oxford is 20 miles away and well worth a visit.
  • Birdwatching
from £125 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
The Elephant at Pangbourne

Berkshire

Rural, chic hotel in a bustling village. Handcrafted Indian furniture, oriental rugs, delicate fabrics. Elegant restaurant with local produce.

  • Restaurant
  • Quirky
  • Traditional
from £155 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
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The Crown Inn, Buckinghamshire

Buckinghamshire

A modern coaching inn on the end of the Metropolitan line, updated by Ilse Crawford design, understated with character, and good food. Traditional Room 12 featured in the movie Four Weddings and a Funeral. Locals throng the small bar.

  • Restaurant - Hawkyns Restaurant is run by Michelin starred chef Atul Kochhar and serves fine dining Indian cuisine
  • Cooking classes - Atul Kochhar runs several cookery masterclasses every year.
  • Romantic
from £95 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
The Ship Inn, Rye

Rye

A charming and historic pub with rooms, nestled in the centre of the idyllic town of Rye. Rooms are chic, comfortable and filled with lots of natural light. The traditional pub prides itself in its love for English wine. Enjoy deliciously simple yet artisan locally sourced food at the restaurant.

  • Beach Life - Spend the day on Camber Sands, with over 2 miles of stretch of beach to explore
  • Local exploring - The B&B is the perfect spot for discovering the wonders of Rye and beyond
  • Sights nearby - Visit Rye Castle, less than 10 minutes away from the B&B
  • Restaurant - The restaurant serves locally sourced seasonal food
from £85 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
The Waterside Inn

Maidenhead

Ultimate foodie venue with three Michelin stars, on the banks of the river Thames. Run by top chef Alain Roux (son of the late Michel Roux). Sumptuous suites and bedrooms, a destination treat.

  • Restaurant - The Waterside Inn holds three Michelin stars.
  • Restaurant with rooms
  • Traditional
from £220 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
The Bell, Oxfordshire

Oxfordshire (Hampton Poyle)

Set in the pretty Oxfordshire village of Hampton Poyle, this is a charming small hotel and pub, with an excellent restaurant and comfortable rooms with egyptian cotton bed linen, large beds, luxury toiletries and bathrooms with monsoon showers or roll-top baths. A great country escape.

  • Great walks - Walking in the Cotswolds provides a wealth of choices with gentle strolls, hilly hikes and a variety of circular walks
  • Sights nearby - Visit the historic UNESCO world heritage Blenheim Palace
  • Full of character
  • Traditional
from £130 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
The White Horse, West Sussex

West Sussex (West Sussex)

Charming and cosy, AA 5 star silver ‘restaurant with rooms’ offering delicious food and contemporary B&B rooms with roll top copper baths and four-poster kingsize beds. Extra details set this apart from other B&B pubs. Suitable for walkers, families and couples.

  • Country Escape - Private cottage style rooms with lovely views of the green rolling hills at this country chic hotel.
  • Local exploring - In the heart of the Sussex countryside, a good place to base yourselves to explore the area.
  • Foodies - Known for its exquisite restaurant serving British cuisine, awarded 1 AA Rosette.
  • Great walks - Ramble in the South Downs. There are miles of paths for walkers of all abilities
from £150 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
The Crown Inn, Chiddingfold

Surrey (Surrey)

Sat on the edge of Chiddingfold Green this charming coaching inn is a picture of English village life. Inside the 14th century building it is all exposed beams, flagstone tiles, roaring fires and four poster beds, yet with DAB radios, in room DVDs and bathroom mod-cons. The restaurant is AA rated.

  • Great walks - The South Downs, Blackdown, Leith Hill and Winkworth Arboretum provide ample scenic walking routes.
  • Sights nearby - Jane Austen's House Museum and the immortalised town of Loxwood are both a short drive away.
  • Full of character
  • Restaurant
from £110 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
The Five Arrows

Buckinghamshire (Buckinghamshire)

A former coaching inn of the Rothschild's Waddesdon Manor, The Five Arrows provides a historic stay in Buckinghamshire with traditional and neutrally styled bedrooms some having exposed beams, four poster beds and traditional bathrooms. The swish restaurant offers some innovative dishes.

  • Great walks - The Chilterns, with their never ending walking paths, are perfect for ramblers.
  • Full of character
  • Restaurant
  • Traditional
from £105 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
The Halfway Bridge

Petworth (West Sussex)

Cosy inn with comfortable rooms serving superior pub grub and a warm atmosphere Ideal for couples exploring the Sussex countryside and groups wanting a good spot for a gathering.

  • Local markets - The old market town of Petworth with its independant boutiques, cafes and antique shops is great for local exploring.
  • Sailing - The seaside towns of Bogner Regis and Worthing are great for maritime activities.
  • Great walks - The walking trails of the South Downs are accessible directly from the property.
  • Sights nearby - The impressive Petworth House is just five minutes away and well worth a visit.
from £140 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
The Trout at Tadpole Bridge

Oxfordshire (Oxfordshire)

The Trout at Tadpole Bridge is a welcoming Inn, backing on to a rural section of the Thames with its own private mooring. Six comfortable rooms, "classic country" in style, located around a pretty courtyard away from the bustle. The AA rosette restaurant steals the show. A wonderful country treat.

  • Great walks - For an afternoon stroll there is Buscot Park and Gardens; for serious ramblers the Thames Path is on your doorstep.
  • Sights nearby - The famous Blenheim Palace and William Morris' Kelmscott Manor are both nearby.
  • Sailing - The hotel has its own river and private mooring for guests.
  • Views - Some of the rooms have lovely river views
from £130 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
The Crab and Boar

Berkshire (Berkshire)

The Crab and Boar is an historic rural pub with rooms providing contemporary countryside accommodation with comfortable, cosy interiors and a relaxing restaurant. Some rooms have a private hot tub and terrace. Plenty of country pursuits and outdoor activities nearby. For perfect weekend getaways.

  • Country Escape - With loads of country pursuits on the doorstep The Crab and Boar is perfect for a weekend getaway.
  • Romantic Break - For a cheeky romantic break this is perfect. Book a hot tub room and enjoy!
  • Restaurant - Great restaurant which prides itself on serving the best of British food from oysters to scotch eggs!
  • Private Hot Tub - Several of the bedrooms have their own patios and outdoor hot tubs
from £129 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
The Mermaid Inn

Rye

Historic inn in the centre of Rye which dates back to the 13th Century. Rooms ooze period charm with carved four poster beds, sloping beamed ceilings and gorgeous original features including a vast fireplace in the bar. Delicious 2 AA Rosette dining. A perfect weekend getaway.

  • Historic - The cellars date from 1156 and the building was rebuilt in 1420. It's a genuine piece of Tudor architecture
  • Restaurant - 2 AA Rosette dining featuring local produce, such as Winchelses Beef, Rye Bay Cod and Romney Marsh Lamb.
  • Sights nearby
  • Traditional
from £150 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
The Dundas Arms

Berkshire (Hungerford, West Berkshire)

The Dundas Arms is a grade II listed Georgian inn on the banks of the Kennet, in picturesque Kintbury. Eight rooms are decorated in classic country house style, with feature wallpapers & luxurious bathrooms - river rooms with private terraces. Formal & pub style dining ensure something for all.

  • Local markets - The nearby market town of Newbury has plenty of shops selling local produce.
  • Fishing - Fly fishing on the River Kennet is popular in the summer months.
  • Great walks - Traverse the Ridgeway National Trail.
  • Restaurant
from £130 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
The Horse Guards Inn

Petworth (West Sussex)

On the outskirts of a 700-acre Petworth House, this wonderful homely inn is worth a detour just to experience its charm. Friendly staff, delicious food and a cosy atmosphere make for a thoroughly enjoyable stay - for families, couples and lone escapees.

  • Country Escape - Located within the picturesque grounds of Petworth Estate this is a true country getaway
  • Sights nearby - Visit the charming National Trust property of Petworth House
  • Great walks - The South Downs boasts plenty of walking paths
  • Full of character
from £85 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
The White Hart, West Sussex

West Sussex

Comfortable contemporary pitstop close to the South Downs for couples, families and cyclists. A charming and quirky village inn, popular amongst locals and travellers alike. Rooms feature colourful tartans, exposed beams and modern bathrooms. Roaring fires and hearty meals create a cosy feel.

  • Country Escape - Nothing completes a trip to the country like a stay in a quintessentially English village inn!
  • Foodies - Hearty meals served elegantly - foodies will love
  • Sights nearby - Fishbourne Roman Palace and Gardens in nearby Chichester is a must visit
  • Local markets - The historic market towns of Petworth and Midhurst are simply charming
from £129 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
Old House Inn

West Sussex

A former farm house turned gourmet pub this delightful property is just a short drive from Gatwick airport. Spacious rooms feature design quirks and modern bathrooms with a retro twist. Dining is beautifully presented - plus a Full English is included in the room rate.

  • Foodies - AA Rosette awarded and a fine wine list
  • Sights nearby - The 16th century Wakehurst Place is just a short drive away
  • Great walks - The South Downs has plenty of walking paths
  • Restaurant
from £110 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
The Swan Hotel, Arundel

Arundel (Sussex)

Charming local inn boasting a prime location within the charming market town of Arundel. Rooms are decorated in palettes of cream with thick woollen throws, period sash windows and large roll top baths. Downstairs there is a cosy pub with restaurant serving seasonal dishes. A charming stay.

  • Local exploring - Right in the heart of Arundel you are walking distance from the Castle, Cathedral and river
  • Great walks - Along the banks of the river to the local favourite, The Black Rabbit
  • Sights nearby - Arundel Castle and Cathedral are must visits
  • Sailing - A boat trip along the river Arun
from £122 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
Bedford Arms

Hertfordshire (Rickmansworth)

An old coaching inn turned smart family friendly pub with rooms on the Bucks/Herts border. The accommodation is beautifully styled with a country chic feel and plenty of character throughout. The restaurant serves crowd-pleasing pub classics. A great base for local exploring.

  • Families - A friendly atmosphere, family friendly rooms with sofa beds/extra beds and kids' menus, plus under 2s stay for free!
  • Local exploring - Get out and about in the Chess Valley, or travel further afield — a day trip to London is easily do-able too
  • Great walks - The Chess Valley offers great walking country with paths and routes for all fitness levels
  • Restaurant - Seasonal menu serving traditional British cuisine and pub classics
from £125 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia

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