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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Oxfordshire
Traditional ivy-covered inn in village setting. Acclaimed restaurant, bar, individually designed suites, Overlooking the river.
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.
Berkshire
Rural, chic hotel in a bustling village. Handcrafted Indian furniture, oriental rugs, delicate fabrics. Elegant restaurant with local produce.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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