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3.5

Based on 979 opinions finded in 5 websites

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Nº 263 in 322 in Lewes

Nº 53 of 64 British in Lewes

CUSTOMERS TALK ABOUT DISHES WITH..coffeepuddingduckcheeseoldbeautifulcookedlobsterpaysoupporkfishmuststeakpotatoesroastlamb

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Wonderful Sunday lunch. Atypical of the usual over cooked watery offerings of most pubs. Generous well cooked portions and a decent wine list

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Luisa Viollet . 2024-11-25

MORE AT Google

Good Sunday Roast, we had a late lunch at the end of a walk round Plumpton; would have been better to have had lunch then walked. Food and ambience were enjoyable. Dog friendly too.

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Bernie Phillips . 2024-11-19

MORE AT Google

We have just come back from having lunch at the Jolly Sportsman, and what a lunch it was! Every dish was absolutely delicious, the beer and wine excellent and the service friendly and very efficient. Top notch - we will definitely be back!

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Judith H . 2024-10-11

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Great staff, great service. Great atmosphere.

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Zachary Sweeps . 2024-10-08

MORE AT Google

We visited the pub for an overnight stay with our dog which included dinner and breakfast. Our room was huge and very clean and had a great view over farmland which was an ideal place to walk our elderly dog. Every dish we ate was outstanding and sourced from local producers. The wine list was of reasonable size and well curated, we had Lebanese and Croatian wines, which were well priced and tasty. All of the team were friendly and helpful and all communication to book our trip was handled by Chrissie, who was very helpful and responded quickly to my emails. WE WILL BE BACK!

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Emma C . 2024-10-06

MORE AT TripAdvisor

We came here for a big group dinner (40 of us) and had the most wonderful experience. The food and drinks were delicious, the pub itself is beautiful and cosy. Chrissie the manager was so helpful and friendly throughout the entire process and all the staff really ensured our experience was great from start to finish. I would highly recommend this pub to anyone - its definitely worth a visit.

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Leonie Watson . 2024-09-30

MORE AT Google

We stumbled across this place whilst looking for a Sunday roast, and we can both say that hands down this was the best roast we’ve had! Amazing service, absolutely delicious food and would definitely come again.

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Ella Simpson . 2024-09-22

MORE AT Google

The pub has changed since we first came here over 20 years ago, but it is still the best country pub outside Lewes. A most pleasant lunch on a quiet weekday. Good food and local ale, relaxed service.

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sussexrowmark . 2024-09-21

MORE AT TripAdvisor

We went as a family of 4 adults and a child. The main purpose was to suss the location out as a possible wedding reception venue. Well it certainly won’t be happening here. We all agreed that the food was EXTREMELY expensive for the quality on offer. We didn’t have starters or puddings and just 1 drink each. Nearly £200 including a 12 1/2 % discretionary service charge which we asked the waitress to take off when we paid as the service and food didn’t warrant it. My partner and I had pork loin. It came with a large flat Yorkshire pudding which was tasteless and cold and a piece of crackling which was like leather and didn’t crackle at all. The vegetables were all overcooked and soft and the ‘roast’ potatoes seemed to have been deep fried. Awful, soft and gooey! We also had a separate small bowl of cauliflower cheese with truffle which was tasteless and seemed to have been warmed up previously more than once. The other couple who were looking at the place for their wedding reception had the beef with the same vegetables and were equally disappointed with the quality of the food. 2 of our group are gluten intolerant and there was obvious confusion between the waitresses and the kitchen as to what dishes could be served gluten free. No-one asked if everything was ok - not even when they could see how much of the food we hadn’t eaten when they cleared the plates away. There were no questions either when I asked the waitress to remove the service charge from the bill. All in all an extremely disappointing and expensive experience which has meant the young couple will not be having their reception here and we shan’t be returning.

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Steve B . 2024-09-16

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Came here for Sunday lunch. They managed to fit us in last minute as I’d accidentally booked for the wrong day which was impressive on a Sunday! The food was excellent, best roast I’ve had in a pub for a long long time and the service was great too, beautiful garden outside. We will definitely be coming again.

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hannah moat giddings . 2024-09-15

MORE AT Google

Had the best steak of my life but that tart was dryyyyyy bro

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Boba Fatt . 2024-09-01

MORE AT Google

Wonderful Sunday roast and great service. We’ll be back!

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Albert Colom . 2024-08-25

MORE AT Google

Beautiful quiet location, yet walkable from Plumpton station. Room 4 was lovely and quiet. Staff were attentive and helpful. Food was delicious. Will return.

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Tim Hansen . 2024-08-18

MORE AT Google

Cannot comment on the rooms as I didn't stay. Delightful country setting, laid back relaxing ambience, perfect. Excellent selection of wines, great local beers, food delightful varied menu, had a most pleasant luncheon.

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Russell Bracegirdle . 2024-08-17

MORE AT Google

A wonderful pub in beautiful countryside near Lewes. The food was imaginative and delicious, the service friendly and courteous and sitting outside under a vine covered pergola on a summer night listening to relaxing jazz while dining was an amazing experience. It is above and beyond the average country pub offer and is well worth the drive. Perfect.

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Jane Lamb . 2024-08-06

MORE AT Google

Went for breakfast but electricity went down, still got charged for coffee which I personally would have made complimentary, have to say coffee was very good.

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Aidy Norton . 2024-07-27

MORE AT Google

Great food. Staff were nice great surroundings.

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Jim Larsson . 2024-07-26

MORE AT Google

My son and his wife had their wedding meal at the pub in the conservatory area on the 1st June. Chrissy was waiting to welcome us when we arrived with a friendly smile which was lovely. The meal was excellent, we all really enjoyed the food. Service was also very good. We were very well looked after. A lovely place for a special occasion. Thank you to all the staff.

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Belinda Towler . 2024-07-22

MORE AT Google

Needs to knock the menu down a tad - a wider choice of cheaper food - gain a wider service of returns

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Ian Barden . 2024-07-20

MORE AT Google

We stopped in today for Lunch in the garden, during a Memory Trip into the Village from back into the early 70's; then went into the Jolly Sportsman for lunch. It was excellent food and service from: Rose and Rebecca 💯

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Ian B . 2024-07-18

MORE AT TripAdvisor

This is a hidden gem, servs beer direct from the barrel behind the bar. Has an amazing outdoor bar and garden to match. A must for a visit if you are in the area.

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Mark Harper . 2024-07-16

MORE AT Google

Lekker rustig gelegen. Ruime parkeerplaatsen. Kamer is niet overdreven groot maar schoon en van alle gemakken voorzien. Erg vriendelijke uitbaatster die een heerlijk ontbijt verzorgde. Prachtige tuin waar je heerlijk kunt zitten.

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Maas60 . 2024-07-15

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Excellent service, lovely place

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Jan Linhart . 2024-07-15

MORE AT Google

lovely location with very friendly and attentive staff. good vegetarian and gluten free options. particularly recommend the barbecued leeks, the fig salad and the sunday roast options.

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annabel macken . 2024-07-07

MORE AT Google

Just wonderful. Comfortable and immaculate rooms, delicious food and fabulous hospitality. We stayed one night and had a fine dinner and breakfast and were looked after beautifully. It was a sunny day and Rob took us on a beautiful walk to the Ridgeview vineyard where we had a tasting and very good lunch. Thoroughly recommend - his vineyard tours could be one of Sussex's best kept secrets!

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GoPlaces659417 . 2024-06-24

MORE AT TripAdvisor

attended for a wedding reception. Food was amazing, great atmosphere and friendly and helpful staff. a very lovely intimate venue for the last part of a beautiful wedding.

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Vikki T . 2024-06-18

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Our first visit to this charming gastro pub. Beautiful rural setting with pretty gardens. The staff were friendly and attentive and the food was perfectly cooked and totally delicious. Fig & Walnut salad, followed by cod which was wonderfully fresh and flaky. Tempted by dessert. Apple in filo pastry. Again, just delicious. Will definitely visit again when we are next in the area.

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jill b . 2024-06-14

MORE AT TripAdvisor

I was working in the area and was looking for a pub with good food, good ale and good service. With the Jolly Sportsman I found these things and them some. The tall blond is very tasty the food was perfectly done, my taste buds haven't done that dance in a long time, so thank you chefs. Amazing service. Real lovely smiles from all the staff. Reassuring. Very much recommend. Go slow driving in as there are horses trotting on the lanes.

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ste lew . 2024-06-09

MORE AT Google

Beautiful old pub, stunning rooms, all staff very attentive, warming, welcoming, everything you could as for. Superbly kept garden, truly stunning! One of the best beer gardens ive had the pleasure of having a drink in. If im in the area again, ill most certainly stay again.

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Kyle Chapman . 2024-06-06

MORE AT Google

Unbelievable experience ! On 30/5/24 we held a pre-wedding drinks and nibbles for 40 people. Well, that’s what we thought. Instead we had the most luxurious finger food, the best we have ever eaten, all cooked fresh and served perfectly warm and, it seemed, never ending. To finish, 2 huge homemade Victoria sponges to literally die for. The drinks were not the usual fair. Locally sourced ales and lagers, local fizz which everyone thought was French, and a lovely selection of European whites and reds. The venue is beautiful, we reserved the inside conservatory and a large section of the tree lined garden. The weather was dry but not warm, so we all really used the inside and a small section of the patio area which was very comfortably furnished. Now the staff…… what can we say about Chrissy and her team. They were outstanding. Attention to detail was exemplary and communication was fantastic. Chrissy was just brilliant and at no point did we want for or need anything. She catered for our every need almost telepathically. She is a real gem and we can only thank her so much for giving us a wonderful night, the bride and groom will never forget it. Thank you David and Nadine

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David Wyatt . 2024-06-04

MORE AT Google

Delicious food, gorgeous setting in the garden. Perfect service.

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Subtle Blade . 2024-05-23

MORE AT Google

A huge disappointment, food was totally unacceptable, 9 out of 10 dishes returned. Manager agreed it was bad and credited the bill. offered 4 complimentary meals on another occasion, 2 days later told us he wouldn't as we were a very bad customer. definitely will not return.

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robertD5362KV . 2024-05-18

MORE AT TripAdvisor

We booked as 2 couples for the Plumpton racing package. Room, grandstand tickets with personal walking guide to the course (bonus Owners &Trainers badges as the pub owner had a runner), bubbly on arrival back at the pub and a 3 course dinner. Rooms nicely furnished with large beds and walk-in showers. Good food and excellent service. Breakfast was superb the following morning. A very peaceful setting. All helped by choosing the warmest day of the year so far.

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Brian Birch . 2024-05-13

MORE AT Google

Food is divine, slick service and friendly staff

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Chee Lo . 2024-05-11

MORE AT Google

Had lovely breakfast here a few times and it was delicious and wonderful service

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sarah O'Brien . 2024-05-09

MORE AT Google

What a lovely little place, lovely staff, good food and a clean comfortable room with a wonderful country side view. We will be back for sure 😊.

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lillypups . 2024-05-07

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Very good service, excellent food, would go as far to say the best roast I've eaten in Sussex. Love the location, can't wait for the garden bar to be open in the summer!

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Aimée-lou Nunan . 2024-04-29

MORE AT Google

Cannot believe we're never been here until now! Had a wonderful mid-week birthday lunch! Excellent friendly service, great attention to detail, dog friendly, great food, and a very nice bloody mary! Garden looked lovely, have to go back when the garden bar open. Easy walk to/from Plumpton station, very walkable from Burgess Hill and surrounding area. More on the pricey side (about £140 for two people, two courses each plus a shared pudding, beer, wine and a cocktail) but the isn't the regular pub grub, menu is much elevated, the dishes are full of flavour and you can taste the passion they put into it, all made with fresh, local and foraged ingredients. You do get what you pay for, worth every penny! Thank you for a wonderful birthday lunch! ♥️🐝🌷

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SabsAnna15 Gmail . 2024-04-27

MORE AT Google

Such a lovely and hidden little gem this pub. Came on a later Sunday evening for my mum's birthday and it was so peaceful, perfect for us as we were able to really enjoy the surroundings. The Sunday roast lamb was literally the best thing! See all pictures of what we had plus a teaser of what's on the menu. It's tucked away in the Sussex downs, if you have Google maps it's spot on for the route so will have no issues finding it and when you come close to it you can see the sign for it too. Friendly staff, quick service and overall a pleasant experience with a lovely layout inside plus a nice outdoor area too. Thanks all round! Solid A***** LDT x

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London Double Trouble . 2024-04-24

MORE AT Google

Lovely breakfast, freshly cooked to order and the ingredients were top quality. Service was friendly and personable all for what was a reasonable price

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Road43911806207 . 2024-03-11

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Really enjoyable evening. Ambience was lovely with a live jazz band, beautiful decor. The menu had so many things to choose from, all sounded delicious. We had the sharing brill which was …. brill-iant, lovely sauce. The brioche snack was also very nice. A very enjoyable evening, with friendly service.

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louises266 . 2024-02-14

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Beautiful little place to stay, staff very attentive and super friendly. It was the perfect place to relax before attending a wedding near by.

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Rebecca Campbell . 2024-02-13

MORE AT Google

Had a family event here. Location was a little of a challenge to get to by car ( small lanes, with potholes). The venue was great. The conservatory space allocated to us was wonderful, especially in winter lights. Tables were beautifully laid out. Service was great and attentive. The food was mixed. The pork and venison roast meals were enjoyed. The beef roasts were mostly very pink (mine was on verge of mooing & not rested enough - still bleeding on plate). Potatoes were hard & all veg cold. The pub was very busy and it is a challenge to feed many and coordinate timings. Also, concious we were probably too noisy for other customers in venue - there were no doors (sliding doors) to separate us from others. Outside area, even though chilly, was great for kids to run around in - away from any roads etc. Overall, we had a wonderful day. Thanks.

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C . 2024-02-09

MORE AT Google

A friend wanted to take us out for a meal and having enjoyed a number of pleasant meals in the past, we thought we’d recommend The Jolly Sportsman. What a massive MISTAKE! My wife and I decided to have the 32 Day aged Sirloin and our friend decided to have the Roast Pork Loin. The menu states that ALL of the roasts are cooked over coal and the standard vegetables were meant to include roast potatoes, braised red cabbage, swede mash, caraway carrots, spiced honeyed parsnip, Yorkshire pudding & gravy. I will NEVER again be disparaging about our local Harvesters! At £29.50 for the Beef & 24.50 for the Pork, we expected a high standard of preparation, cooking and presentation. I wish! Sadly, a bad Wimpy might have been better! There is absolutely no way any of the meat could’ve been cooked over coal! The Roast Potatoes were chewy and soggy, we had one tiny piece of parsnip no more than an inch long which tasted quite indifferent (not spicy), there was no braised red cabbage, the “carrot” (in the singular), was a colossal inch long snd utterly tasteless. Oh, we also had some limp and tasteless Cavalo Nero. The gravy can best be described as a poor relation to Bisto with the same dna as well sauted dish water. Oh, the first time the meal was served up, the plates were barely tepid and the food was not much better. So, we asked the waitress if our food could be “heated”. Thankfully, we were served up with freshly plated servings. My wife had one quarter of the amount of beef & had to complain about this again, thereby reassuring us that nobody in the kitchen was even remotely interested in checking what was being served up!!! Wow!!! In fairness, this was duly rectified but our friend’s Roast Loin of Pork turned out to be 50% of unrendered inedible fat… (Yum yum!!!). So, we eventually consumed our meals whilst playing hunt the carrot! Having left much of our meal we thought we’d order a dessert! (Still bordering in favour of optimism), we thought we’d have a dessert! (Puffing chests and feeling very brave!) So, two of us ordered the Sticky Toffee pudding with a dollop of ice cream & one Coconut Cheesecake with some sort of berry compote… Another unmitigated disaster! We again got seriously unstuck with the so called STICKY TOFFEE pudding which was over a million light years away from being sticky or toffee like and the butterscotch sauce we concluded was also related to the previously referred to sauted dishwater. We had contemplated coffee but decided to pay the bill - but very kindly the very lovely lady who was was serving us had noticed that none of us had consumed much of the offerings and stated that under the circumstances there was nothing to pay and so we left a little battle weary and hungry & headed for a lovely MacDonald, which after our interesting excursion to The Jolly Sportsman was a welcome relief to our grumbling stomachs. I very much doubt if we shall ever return but then stranger things have happened! In mitigation I have to thank our waitress, who couldn’t apologise enough and refused payment for the wine & drinks. However, I’m afraid it may be some time before we even contemplate going back.

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Ken M . 2024-01-28

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Great food, attentive staff, expensive yes,but you know before going so why go and complain.Get a life

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Roger Hobson . 2024-01-27

MORE AT Google

The whole stay from Friday night to Saturday after breakfast was so relaxing. The staff are so welcome, and you can not fault their attention to customer care. The service was amazing. The room so clean, great attention to detail. I was scared to walk in there with my dirty boots...maybe a shoe rack on box to put them in or on. Also when you go in to room upstairs the lights blinds you...needs adjusting...and stairs need to be painted on edge so you can see them. Lighting maybe at bottom too. Bed really comfortable and sleep well. Bathroom gorgeous. Only fault when drying my hair with their hairdryer only place to put it was on the bed...maybe a small shelf near on under the mirror. The evening meal was fab. The breakfast ...fruit platter great...the croissant delicious...the breakfast was overcooked or waiting under hot lamp to be served. Well worth visiting! Will return!

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Una M . 2024-01-06

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Outstandingly good food drinks and service, with decent portion sizes as well.

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Robsteriark Noneofyourbusiness . 2024-01-03

MORE AT Google

Really friendly staff. Nice warm pub.

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Robert Tennent . 2023-12-30

MORE AT Google

We had a really lovely time on Christmas Day. Staff were exceptional: kind, attentive, approachable. The atmosphere was great. Food was really good, all our dietary needs taken into account.

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Tom R . 2023-12-27

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Fabulous pub in a glorious setting. We love the ambience, service and menu. The food is outstanding and service is efficient, helpful and informative. It has a wonderful garden too.

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LaSerriere . 2023-12-23

MORE AT TripAdvisor

I had lunch here on Saturday, absolutely incredible food, could not fault it at all. Slightly more expensive than your average roast, but it was worth every penny. You get what you pay for.

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Jay Palmer . 2023-12-22

MORE AT Google

Very disappointing meal. Have visited over several years, but this is the last time . The restaurant had more staff than customers. There was very little choice on the menu so we both chose the braised venison. It was in a large pasta style bowl. Looked a large meal but it was mainly an amazing amount of beetroot. We chose chocolate mouse with pickled oranges. It came in a large bowl was very rich, and had only a few tiny pieced of crunchie orange. I had to leave most of this meal. It was a very strange meal don't know what they were trying to achieve - no wonder it was nearly empty when other gastro pubs were full .

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GerryG8 . 2023-12-20

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Holy grail of quality and quantity, the best roast I’ve ever eaten. Had the sirloin, perfect. Could have chugged the gravy, off the chart. Sure it’s a little pricey but they seem to have upped their game since we last went, cannot recommend this enough. Dog friendly, child friendly, lovely pub atmosphere

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Tom Edwards . 2023-12-17

MORE AT Google

Beautiful location, lovely staff delicious food , was there for Sunday roast was 10/10

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Sam Gordon . 2023-12-11

MORE AT Google

We booked for two nights. Absolutely gorgeous room. Had dinner in their restaurant. The food was brilliant and beautifully presented . Lovely staff. Our short break was perfect.

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david bloor . 2023-12-05

MORE AT Google

Lovely country pub offering a small but extremely well cooked and presented menu. Moderately expensive for pub food. Service is impeccable.

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Heather Fuller . 2023-11-25

MORE AT Google

We held our wedding reception at ‘The Jolly’ at the end of September and it was just the perfect day for us. The setting is stunning, and the food was amazing. We received so many compliments of the quality of the dishes and how attentive the staff were throughout. The weather was touch and go, but Rob, Chrissie, and the team were really flexible and accommodating so we could thoroughly enjoy our day. We stayed there the night before and the night of our wedding day. The rooms were bright, modern and clean with lovely views of the South Downs. Highly recommend, you won’t be disappointed! Thanks again to all the team.

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Charlotte Rowlinson Lewis . 2023-11-22

MORE AT Google

Thank you to the Snug Supper Club at the Jolly Sportsman for such a lovely evening. Absolutely delicious pies with the BEST pastry I have had in a long time. A pie & a glass of wine by the fire in this cosy pub is a great way to spend a Tuesday evening in winter. Good value too, we will definitely be back

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Victoria Heine . 2023-11-21

MORE AT Google

Thank-you for a fantastic Sunday roast yesterday. We had the pork and Venison then the apple crumble. Compliments to the chef! Also a big thank you to the friendly staff who made us feel very welcome. We will definitely be back.

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Darren Harris . 2023-11-13

MORE AT Google

The good: Food excellent, friendly service. The bad: Exorbitant price charged for mediocre wine by the glass. I would have been better to buy a bottle. I think when a place charges fairly high prices for their food (and I'm not complaining about that in the current environment - the food was interesting and tasty and definitely to be recommended), they shouldn't need to load the price of the drinks.

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Michael Johnson . 2023-11-07

MORE AT Google

I user to work there. In 2003. As à training assistant manager. It has been an amazing expérience in my life. Thanks very much to Master chef Bruce Wass n général manager Robert. Known as bob thé snob. Thank u for all of those gréât People n there talent expérience n patience to teach others tgf love of the service n culinary treasure. Allan pascal george yemy. I travelled lots n i had my business. In thé caribbean sunny friendly island .thanks 4 all yr teaching. Bless u n best regards. 20 years ago

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Allan YEMY . 2023-11-05

MORE AT Google

Being a hotelier myself, I don’t normally bother with these reviews, BUT!! this place is a GEM. How this can get anything other than a TEN is beyond me. The location, friendly smiling faces, the wines, quality whiskey you won’t find normally, the cleanliness is superb. You really must visit this place and help keep alive pubs like this. The attention to detail, welcoming letter, tissues, dressing gowns, ironing board, menus in the room, is fantastic. Congratulations to Chrissie and her staff. FIRST CLASS.

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Anthony E . 2023-11-05

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Secluded country pub with generous bedrooms and food. Stayed one night with our dog in spacious, comfortable room with double aspect windows. Deal was dinner bed and breakfast and very good value at £250. Dinner was excellent food well cooked, breakfast not quite as good ( ghastly scrambled eggs) but friendly and efficient service from all staff. Very close to Plumpton race course. We had extended dog walks.

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TriciaC786 . 2023-11-01

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Sunday roast was fabulous worth going to this amazing place. Very impressive

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Farah Edwards . 2023-10-31

MORE AT Google

Been here a few times over the summer and had fabulous beer in a fabulous garden. Saturday we came for a meal. Wonderful, yes on the high side of price from other pubs around but the food the atmosphere and environment made very good value. 100% recommend!

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mat duncan . 2023-10-29

MORE AT Google

A truly fantastic country pub and B&B! We booked to stay for one evening the day before we arrived. We reached The Jolly Sportsman after hiking from Eastbourne! Our welcome was extremely friendly and helpful, the room was excellent and the food was exceptional! The breakfast in the morning was very enjoyable and certainly helped for our next day of hiking! A frankly hidden gem!

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Joseph Griffiths . 2023-10-27

MORE AT Google

We held our wedding reception at the Jolly Sportsman. The team couldn’t have done anymore to make our day really special. The food was incredible and all arrived simultaneously and hot which is not easy when serving 90 people. The team put a huge amount of effort helping us set up and tidy away making it a really stress free event. Honestly couldn’t have asked for more!

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lizzie48949 . 2023-10-24

MORE AT TripAdvisor

We stayed for 2 nights on a very quick visit to Sussex. We had visited for lunch some weeks before , and Had A delicious light lunch in the garden. We booked a small room, and it was perfectly adequate for 2 nights as we were out all day. We would have preferred a wardrobe rather than just a coat rack with hangers, and did not like the small fridge at floor level, very difficult to access. The room was well maintained and nicely furnished. Comfortable large bed. Very quiet. Very warm despite no central heating. The attractive bathroom had a large shower and there was plenty of hot water. Rooms are accessed from an outside staircase, no problem when dry but bit slippery when it rains! We ate there for dinner both nights . The first night there was very slow service, we thought it was due to the table of 10, but apparently there had been a hornet in the kitchen, and it had to be dealt with! Consequently, the food was delayed and the bread warmed in the oven was rather crunchy! My partner had mushroom soup which was tasty but far too thick. My mussels and frites were good. We spoke to the young waiter and asked him to book a table for Sunday lunch for our friends whom we recommended. He wrote it down on a piece of paper and confirmed it was booked. When they arrived on Sunday there was no booking for them, but fortunately they got the last table! Very disappointing and embarrassing for me! On the second night we ate again. Half lobster and frites , with a delicious salad, and Venison. There was a mix up with the venison and the order was changed to braised venison. My partner didn’t think it was braised, but it was tasty. When we asked for the bill in the morning, we had been charged for 2 venison. Another small problem with the dry Sherry, I was served what they said was a fino, but tasted like and looked the colour of an amontillado. Eventually I was served a fino. Breakfast each morning was good. We ordered the previous night which was fine. Good quality produce, particularly the bacon and sausages. All in all a pleasant stay with a few unfortunate glitches.

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SRoll . 2023-10-16

MORE AT TripAdvisor

What a disappointment! After 20 years of enjoying the food and ambience at the Jolly Sportsman we have decided not to return. Although the provenance of the food is still a feature, the menu is no longer exciting or appetising. Many dishes have a strange 'twist' added that is less than attractive e.g. Brussel sprout leaves with sea bream. The chocolate mousse dessert both tasted and looked inedible and wasn't set.The food and drink are both over-priced and not good value, £11.50 for a tiny bowl of lobster bisque soup as a starter. Service, whilst friendly was disorganised with the young staff chatting to each other behind the counter. Very sad to see one of the culinary stars in the area decline so drastically.

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Joanna O . 2023-10-15

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Lovely friendly and helpful waitresses and beautiful gardens. However very disappointing food. Barely luke warm mushroom soup with two very small pieces of bread, no butter and limp salad leaves floating on top of the skin which had formed on the soup. Overcooked fries. Altogether unappetising and totally overpriced. Should have stayed at home in the garden and opened a tin of Heinz with fresh crusty bread from local bakers!!!!!

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Fiona T . 2023-10-07

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Not having visited the Jolly Sportsman for a few years as I don't live near it any longer, I was saddened to see it had been 'transformed' internally in to a modern era restaurant. Gone were the homely features that make a traditional pub replaced by the defacto gastro decor. The makeover included the price list which has seen it reflect the updated contemporary look. The food was well cooked and presented, the service fluctuated between all or nothing, obviously a management issue, all the staff were extremely pleasant. The beer was of variable quality as I presume it's not a popular choice looking at the other clientele. It now has a large conservatory and access to the garden and an outside bar. It is obviously a popular spot given the lack of car parking spaces and the number of large SUVs, some of who's drivers seem to assume that they have priority when you meet them on the single track road that leads to the establishment. I don't think I will be returning in the future as I prefer a traditional atmosphere rather than the current one.

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Chris Heath . 2023-09-27

MORE AT Google

This pub definitely meets the "hidden gem" criteria as it is in a sparsely populated part of rural East Sussex. Fortunately it is the "local" pub for friends we were meeting for lunch and they provided navigation instructions but we still passed by on our first attempt. It is an extensive garden with outdoor seating which will be great in the summer months but even late September proved too cool. The interior has several rooms all helping to create a warm and welcoming atmosphere. It was good to find that the Landlord knew how to make a proper Gunners. Service was low key but helpful and the recommended Mushroom Soup was really special. Intense flavours with fried mushrooms, a dollop of thick cream and hot, crispy taost made this a starter choice for all four of us at £10.50 each. Main courses included a cold Burrata salad, warm chorizo croquettes and a wonderful home made Ham and leek shortcrust pastry pie with chips and greens £18.50. Full marks to the chef for sidestepping the usual choice of flaky pastry, This pie was served with a mini jug of delicious tomato infused gravy. This was a proper Sussex lunch. Total cost for 4 with drinks and 12,5% service was £123.38 - exceptional value for such quality food.

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Brian M . 2023-09-26

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Stunning location 👌 excellent food and great staff.

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Andy Morris . 2023-09-26

MORE AT Google

Straight away on entry the staff were so friendly and this continued throughout the evening despite how busy it was. The food was amazing. Couldn’t fault it at all. All round 10/10

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Maisie Smith . 2023-09-25

MORE AT Google

After driving through the very narrow lanes we was hoping the pub would live up to expectations. It really did with lovely staff and very nice food. Would definitely recommend driving through the lanes to find this little gem

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Roy . 2023-09-21

MORE AT Google

We visited for lunch on a very hot September day, just checking it out as were staying very close by. We had a light meal, sat under a pergola in the lovely garden. The welcome and service was excellent. We had the Summer Consomme , Garden Pickles, and Foccacia. All delicious. Cant wait to visit again when we travel South. This was the highlight of our week.

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SRoll . 2023-09-10

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If you could describe the quintessential surroundings and setting and the perfect lunch, well The Jolly Sportsman has it all. We visited on Sunday and were blessed to have been allocated a table in the "orchard" - I would have been happy to have sat...

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deeintheculdesac . 2023-09-06

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Good points: very nice, helpful waiting staff, sunny day, in the garden. Appealing menu. But, what was going on in the kitchen??? Two plates of turbot - thin white wet fish, could have been anything. Beurre blanc…dribble of melted butter, couple of hard potatoes on...

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Scenic65821516295 . 2023-09-05

MORE AT TripAdvisor

We had a wonderful stay in one of the stylish and comfortable bedrooms. Everything we needed for our stay was provided to a high-standard; including coffee machine and chilled drinks in the fridge. The delicious Sunday roast was just what we wanted and the cooked breakfast in the morning was a real feast!

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Clare . 2023-09-05

MORE AT Google

Lovely place nice food just a bit pricey

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nichola Rodgers . 2023-09-04

MORE AT Google

Really friendly staff and food was very tasty

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Matt Butler . 2023-09-03

MORE AT Google

Just recently returned from here on a last- minute one night stay and it was a great find! The pub’s in a beautiful location and the rooms were spotless, spacious and comfortable with great little details left out. The food was fresh and tasty and there was a really good selection of drinks. Everyone who served us was really polite and helpful and nothing was ever too much. All in all it’s a lovely pub whether you’re visiting for food, drinks or a night’s stay and we hope to be returning in the future!

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Matt Hardy . 2023-09-01

MORE AT Google

Just had a lovely weekend at this friendly pub. The bedrooms are comfortable and beautifully decorated. Great showers! Food (lunch and breakfast) were delicious and the service was really helpful and good The gardens are lovely. I have been to this pub in the past...

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N M . 2023-08-27

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Skate wings were well cooked. Good selection of cheese

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RMB Messi . 2023-08-17

MORE AT Google

Wonderfull staff, beautiful location and a nice menu.

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Niels Mulders . 2023-08-16

MORE AT Google

What a disappointment! Lovely spot. Lovely decor. Good ambiance. But ....too posh to do Chardonnay by the glass. Too posh to do an artisan burger. Not posh enough to know how to cook lobster so it's not tough or how to make a proper thermidor...

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gwohsb . 2023-08-15

MORE AT TripAdvisor

The staff were very welcoming and attentive. My partner ordered skate and there wasn't much fish on the portion , there was more bones. We addressed this with the staff and a complimentary dessert was offered. My partner ordered another main meal and this was...

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DeeElizabethWalker . 2023-08-15

MORE AT TripAdvisor

The rooms are clean and cosy with friendly warm staff very welcoming. Food is wonderful and the gardens are stunning. A beautiful Gem tucked away in the countryside.

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Louise Elliott . 2023-08-15

MORE AT Google

Wow what an amazing find. Am visiting friends and was taken here what a great find. Even in the drizzle, the staff were amazing dog bowl by every table. The food looked amazing. I definitely want to revisit and have the food as it looked excellent. Will have more time next time.

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Simon Hobbs . 2023-08-11

MORE AT Google

Second time we have been here and it’s just fabulous. We have come with family and friends and as a couple and tried many different dishes - starters, mains and pudding as well as specials and everything was just exceptional and the dishes are full...

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cmmm88 . 2023-08-10

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Just been for Sunday lunch after quite a long absence. It was very busy and I was somewhat worried that the service would be slow. However they had loads of great staff on, and never felt like we were waiting too long for anything. Great...

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lulud_10 . 2023-08-06

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- I went for a relaxed family lunch with my children one of whom has Asperger's. I was told 'I must come and try the restaurant'. My daughter who has limited taste asked politely if she could have cheese on her chips - the staff...

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Claire S . 2023-07-09

MORE AT TripAdvisor

We stayed overnight after Glyndebourne - just 20 mins away but tucked away up a quiet lane. Lovely spacious bedroom with gorgeous views out over the Sussex countryside and superking sized bed. Really smartly decorated with big bathroom (posh toiletries) and some nice touches like...

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h0lfiep0ps2018 . 2023-06-26

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Absolutely gorgeous garden and very well kept beer and cider, but extremely overpriced and quite unimpressive food. £12.50 for 3 very small bite sized arancini? Nearly £30 for lamb chop and veg? Everything was about 30% more than I'd have been happy to pay for the volume and quality. Was busy enough with people eating though, so obviously enough wealthy folks nearby to keep it going.

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Dan Pearson . 2023-06-20

MORE AT Google

A perfect dinner. Attentive, speedy service from both the bar and kitchen. More than two choices for vegetarians/vegans. The children’s menu was very well received by my daughter who ate everything and who complimented the chocolate brownie and ice-cream as being the best she’d tasted....

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MC127 . 2023-06-19

MORE AT TripAdvisor

We stayed here for a night after Glyndebourne. Highly recommended. Staff all very friendly. Room large and attractively decorated.

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jfrank0525 . 2023-06-18

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Our local county pub. Nipped for a wine , chips and bread for Father’s Day. £80 later, over priced wine , 3.slices of bread and hand full of barely cooked chips left us wondering if this was great value for money! Had to ask for...

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JanM288 . 2023-06-18

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Really nice spot, great food friendly staff!

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M B . 2023-06-16

MORE AT Google

Had an amazing lunch here! Great food, lovely outside garden. Nice service.

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Valerie Barth . 2023-06-16

MORE AT Google

Came here for my wife's birthday; perfect summer's day, glorious garden. All the food was delicious & service was superb. Not cheap, but a special place with special food, so fair enough! Will be back.

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Keith G . 2023-06-09

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