Sussex is home to a diverse range of pubs and bars, offering everything from traditional country inns to stylish cocktail bars and waterfront venues. In this sunny patch of West Sussex, visitors can enjoy locally sourced food, regional ales and local wine and a welcoming atmosphere in both rural and urban settings. Whether you’re looking for a relaxed drink after a day of exploring or an evening out, discover pubs and bars across Sussex.
Best Pubs in West Sussex
Some of Sussex's pubs are truly memorable with visitors returning to them time and time again, whether that's for delicious food and excellent service or the variety of drinks on offer, or a combination of these things coupled with a beautiful location and welcoming environment. Some of the stand out, destination pubs near Chichester which you might already know are the Hare & Hounds located close to one of West Sussex's most popular walking routes, Kingley Vale, The Partridge in Singleton, close to the Centurion Way cycle route and The Fox Goes Free near The Trundle walk which overlooks the horse racing track at Goodwood. North of the Downs, The Duke of Cumberland is know for outstanding food and its stunning location, likewise the Three Horseshoes in Elsted, not far from Midhurst, commands an enviable position with stunning views across the South Downs from the beautiful garden. The Swan at Fittleworth, which has received rave reviews from press and customers alike since its renovation and reopening in early 2025, offers menus inspired by the landscape and featuring ingredients sourced as locally as possible. Bosham's The Anchor Bleu is not to be missed, with reservations recommended to avoid disappointment. Here you'll find cosy interiors or in summer, if you're lucky, a prized seat on the deck, overlooking the waters of Chichester Harbour.
Beer Gardens and Outdoor Pubs in West Sussex
You'll be spoilt for choice on a sunny day in West Sussex, with a huge variety of beautiful pub gardens and outdoor spaces. The pretty courtyard of The Swan at Fittleworth is a must-visit family friendly location in summer months with freshly cooked pizzas and soft serve ice cream on offer. The gardens of The Fox Goes Free, The Royal Oak at Hooksway near Chichester, The Hare & Hounds and The Horse & Groom all sit close to walking routes and locations, offering walkers the perfect opportunity to pause for a pint of local ale and a hearty lunch and all welcome dogs - you might just find some excellent countryside views to accompany your stop, too! The Crown & Anchor at Dell Quay is one of West Sussex's favourite pubs, with fabulous views of Chichester Harbour. We recommend reserving a spot on the sunny terrace to top off a summer's day out in West Sussex. Waterside views can also be found at The Black Rabbit at Arundel where you can sit alongside the River Arun. Another much-loved pub garden can be found in the tiny village of Tillington just outside Petworth; The Horse Guards Inn is well loved for excellent food and its pretty 'secret garden' where you'll find eclectic seating nestled beside the vegetable and herb beds - a perfect spot for a chilled glass of Upperton sparkling wine, grown just along the road. Real ale lovers will welcome a stop at The Unicorn Inn in Heyshott just outside Midhurst. Set at the foot of spectacular rolling hills you can sit and sip your pint and admire the views, and you probably won't want to leave! You can explore more of our favourite pub gardens here.
Pubs and bars in Chichester
It’ll come as no surprise that you can find a wide range of pubs and bars in Chichester City Centre. Home to bustling cobbled streets, a wide range of independent and big-name shops as well as a great selection of restaurants, Chichester can just as easily be a great location for a family ‘pub grub’ day out, as it can for a night out on the tiles with friends.
You’ll find chain and independent bars and pubs dotted along North, South, East and West Street, leaving you plenty to choose from. So many in fact, that you may need to make a day and evening of it.
Pubs and Bars in Midhurst and Petworth
If you’re seeking a traditional country pub for lazy lunches and cosy evenings by the fire, then Midhurst and Petworth have everything you need.
Both historic market towns are adorned with pubs offering great pub lunches, Sunday roasts and local bitters and ales. For Midhurst, check out the Angel Inn, the Swan Inn, the Spread Eagle Hotel and Spa, and The Royal Oak, or for bars head to Red H or Faustino’s Wine and Tapas Bar.
For Petworth, head to Petworth’s Angel Inn, the Star or the Black Horse Inn, or for bars, check out E.Street Bar and Grill.
Pubs and Bars in Selsey
For drinking or dining by the sea, Selsey has a host of bars and pubs offering something for all the family including The Lifeboat Inn and The Neptune. Check out one of many options on Selsey’s High Street, then take the 10-minute walk to the seafront for expansive costal views - the perfect Sunday afternoon activity following a pub lunch.
Best Sunday Roasts in West Sussex
For more inspiration, check out our round-up of the best pubs for a Sussex Sunday roast here. With so many great roasts to choose from - from traditional, to meat-free and roasts prepared by award-winning chefs - you may just have to go for a roast every Sunday.
Dog-Friendly Pubs in West Sussex
Dog lovers will welcome the news that a good variety of pubs in West Sussex not only allow dogs but actively welcome them. You'll find water bowls and dog treats on offer in pubs like The Halfway Bridge Inn near Midhurst, The Welldiggers Arms near Petworth (where you can also stay overnight with a special Muddy Paws package for you and your dog), The White Hart in South Harting (perfectly placed if you've walked at nearby Harting Down), The Black Rabbit in Arundel and The Royal Oak in East Lavant. With far too many to list, you can browse for your perfect dog friendly pub here.
