“Historic village pub with rooms in the heart of the Sussex countryside. Sympathetically renovated whilst maintaining original features, The Horse and Groom’s cosy bedrooms, log fire and locally-sourced menu make it ideal for a weekend away”
“Historic village pub with rooms in the heart of the Sussex countryside. Sympathetically renovated whilst maintaining original features, The Horse and Groom’s cosy bedrooms, log fire and locally-sourced menu make it ideal for a weekend away”
Hotel Review
Nestled between the glorious South Downs and the stunning beauty of Chichester Harbour, The Horse and Groom in the village of East Ashling is the perfect pied-à-terre from which to explore this picturesque corner of England. Dating from 1758, this unpretentious Grade II listed pub with rooms oozes charm and authentic character. Step inside the whitewashed former village forge and into the cosy flagstone-floored bar, complete with roaring log fire and Sussex ales on tap. Beyond, the stylish restaurant boasts a collection of early 20th century English, French and Swedish artwork, and leads out onto an enclosed garden for al fresco dining in summer months. Assured, modern dishes range from pub classics to more creative combinations, all underpinned with a clear commitment to sourcing local ingredients such as South Downs lamb, Selsey Bill crab, Nutbourne tomatoes and Sussex Mayfield cheese. Ten cosy well appointed rooms are split between a converted 17th-century oak-beamed flint barn and a sympathetically designed modern annex. Those in the former barn feature spectacular original vaulted ceilings. A visit to The Horse and Groom puts you in good company: the renowned actor and director Laurence Olivier was a pub regular in the 1960s when he was appointed the inaugural Artistic Director of the nearby Chichester Festival Theatre. A small portrait donated by thetheatre marks his much-loved seat.
Written by Tosca Barnes
Recommended For
- Sights nearby
- Check out Fishbourne Roman Palace, a lavish 75AD villa with stunning mosaics and a beautifully recreated Roman garden to explore
- Other Activities
- Take a short trip to Goodwood Estate, where motorsport enthusiasts can revel in thrilling racing events and classic car shows
- Birdwatching
- Visit the nearby Chichester Harbour for stunning coastal views and a peaceful escape into nature, perfect for birdwatching
- Hotel Entertainment
- Unwind with a refreshing Sussex ale by the roaring log fire, soaking in the charm of a 17th-century pub steeped in history
- Foodies
- Indulge in local delicacies like Selsey Bill crab and South Downs lamb, in an art-filled restaurant or al fresco garden
- Local exploring
- Between the South Downs and Chichester Harbour, this charming base offers endless walks and countryside adventures
- Pet friendly
- Pets are allowed on request. Charges may be applicable
- Restaurant
- Artworks
- Historic
- Disabled access
- Restaurant with rooms
- Traditional
- Gourmet
- Full of character
Facilities
- Parking
- Free private parking is possible on site (reservation is not needed)
- Pet friendly
- Pets are allowed on request. Charges may be applicable
- Fireplace
- Bar
- Wifi
- Restaurant
- Disabled access
- Garden
Activities
- Sights nearby
- Check out Fishbourne Roman Palace, a lavish 75AD villa with stunning mosaics and a beautifully recreated Roman garden to explore
- Other Activities
- Take a short trip to Goodwood Estate, where motorsport enthusiasts can revel in thrilling racing events and classic car shows
- Hotel Entertainment
- Unwind with a refreshing Sussex ale by the roaring log fire, soaking in the charm of a 17th-century pub steeped in history
- Birdwatching
- Visit the nearby Chichester Harbour for stunning coastal views and a peaceful escape into nature, perfect for birdwatching
Map & Location
