Pub with rooms Petworth, West Sussex | The Halfway Bridge Inn

Overview

Situated at the top of a charming brick pathway, the sprawling Halfway Bridge inn has proved a peaceful hideaway for over 275 years. A magnet for those exploring this part of the South Downs, locals and visitors alike have been charmed by its original period features.

Lovingly restored by Sam and Janet Bakose, the inn exudes a sense of calm and tranquillity, featuring a warren of hidden corners, roaring winter fires, reclaimed wooden furniture and an original kitchen range - an ideal spot to relax after a day exploring the South Downs or nearby Petworth.

Kick back over a game of dominoes, sup a pint of something local and enjoy the lovely garden, with its original brick cobbles, paved terraces and grassy areas. Peaceful rooms are tucked away in a converted barn a short stroll from the inn - new for 2021 is a fabulous shepherd's hut on the lawn. Despite its quirky, historic aesthetic, the star of the show here is undoubtedly the food, so be sure to sample some of the culinary delights on offer.

Rooms from

Doubles: £150

Good to know

All major credit cards accepted
Private and alfresco dining
Parking available
Shepherd's Hut
No dogs overnight

Family favourite
Little ones are welcome in the pub and rooms, which offers a kid's menu and smaller portions.

Outdoor adventures
The South Downs Way is a stunning trail boasting some of Britain's loveliest countryside. Whether travelling by horse, foot or cycle - nature lovers will also enjoy the diverse bird and wildlife along the way.

A touch of culture
Art lovers can enjoy a stunning selection of British masterpieces at nearby Petworth House and Gardens, home of the National Trust's largest art collection.

Rooms

The eight bedrooms are located in the Cowdray Barn, the inn's former stable block, revamped with bags of style and situated just a short stroll from the pub.

The single-storey flint and brick building features light-filled rooms with contemporary décor and original features including vaulted ceilings and exposed brick. Despite its rustic charm, the overall vibe is chic and modern. Each bedroom has its own separate entrance while some of the rooms have floor-to-ceiling windows, offering guests country views.

June 2021 saw the arrival of a stunning shepherd's hut on the lawn facing the barn. Designed and built in traditional style by a local Sussex company, the cool bespoke hut for two features a wood-burning stove, a neat en suite shower room and a cosy cabin bed with quality linen and throws. For more information or to book, click here >

There's a footpath at the back of the building which leads straight onto the hills behind - or you'd rather taking it slow, indulge in a bubble bath in one of the deep tubs that look out onto rolling scenery.

Restaurant & bar

Boasting a menu that is passionate about seasonality as it is provenance, the Halfway Bridge champions sustainable, local and foraged fare. From foraged mushrooms and samphire to local game or freshly caught Selsey crab, there's a fantastic range of local produce on offer.

Find a cosy corner in the bar, hunker down at a large trestle table in the restaurant and tuck into well-crafted dishes that show respect for British classics. Food is very much at the heart of this inn with options ranging from updated pub classics, global favourites and more refined options. Devilled lambs kidneys on toast might be followed by the suckling pig shoulder with Bramley apple sauce - or for something lighter, plump for a local favourite of scampi and chips.

Puddings aim for comfort in the form of treacle tart with salted caramel ice cream. Come Sunday, indulge in one of their legendary roasts with a pint of locally brewed ale - the nearest brewery is Langham Brewery, a mere 500 metres up the road. Other local, carefully sourced drinks included Blackdown distillery's vodka and gin, for example, and sparkling wines from nearby Upperton and Tinwood Vineyards.

Things to do

Theatre buffs shouldn't miss nearby Chichester Festival Theatre, one of Britain's most prestigious provincial theatres and an instantly recognisable landmark. Recently restored and attracting fabulous acting talent, it's the perfect place to see top quality productions before they head to the West End. Set in large grounds, theatre lovers can bring picnics in summer or visit the nearby bars and restaurants.

Petworth House and Park is a must for all history buffs and art lovers. Housing the National Trust's largest art collection, this impressive baroque 17th-century building exhibits major works by Van Dyck, Turner, Reynolds and Gainsborough, set in sprawling grounds. Those searching for the quintessential English village can spend an afternoon in charming Petworth. One of the real jewels of the South Downs, it's the perfect spot to relax in a traditional pub or have a potter in its boutique shops and cafes.

You're not far from the coast here - so enjoy some of West Sussex's marvellous beaches. South-west of Chichester, West Wittering beach is a real highlight, with a fabulous stretch of coast particularly popular with wind and kite surfers.