There are so many to choose from really, but here are a few of our favourites that specialise in South Downs traditions, seasonal and local produce. Most of these are also easily accessible by public transport, so that you can tie them into a car-free exploration of the South Downs National Park.
Gilbert White's house, Selbourne, is an award-winning tea parlour where you can try speciality teas and home-made cakes. The café at the
Queen Elizabeth Country Park sells home-made cakes, biscuits and soups along with many local products.
Langrish House is a winner of the highest Gold Award from the
Green Tourism Business Scheme, and everything from its cream teas to lunches to fine dining dinners embrace local producers. Langrish House has sustainability at the core of everything they do - and serve.
The Flint Barn Restaurant, Berwick, is located in the English Wine Centre so no guesses what you will have no shortage of to accompany the fine food created by the chefs here. The Kings Head Pub, Lewes, not only serves superb, sustainable food, but it is also in a traditional green oak gabled pub, with hardwood floors and roaring open fire. Come here after a day on the South Downs and you might not be able to leave. So, book early in order to luxuriate in this gastro gorgeousness before catching the last train home.
The Foragers Pub in Hove has people coming down on the train from London especially to eat here. Its reputation spreads way beyond the South Downs in terms of sustainability and ethics in food and hospitality. With organic local meat, superb local game and an exciting range of seasonal wild, foraged greens, it's just Down-right cool.
For more suggestions visit the South Downs National Park website for their
Delicious Days Out page.
