Rebecca Pitcairn visits the West Sussex village of Fittleworth and its charming foodie-focused local, The Swan Inn

Where is it?

The village of Fittleworth on the outskirts of Pulborough in West Sussex is one of those places to get away from it all while also being in easy access of everything. The towns of Petworth and Arundel, Cowdray Polo Park and Goodwood Estate are all within 15 miles of The Swan. The pub is just five minutes’ drive from Pulborough train station, which is serviced by direct lines from London Victoria.

What’s the accommodation like?

Polished but completely unpretentious. The pub underwent a renovation in 2024 under the watchful eye of managing director Angus Davies (previously of Chez Bruce, Lorne, Sorrel and The Hollist Arms) together with interior designer Zanna Westgate. The result is a contemporary mix of classic Victorian styling with modern touches. Deep terracotta and classic Defender green break up extensive brickwork and dark wood paneling in the main building; bedrooms feature thick curtains and sumptuous fabrics in current designs, and thoughtful accessories adorn the furniture. The 12 en-suite bedrooms are named after famous artists and writers thought to have stayed at The Swan or who were inspired by Fittleworth’s rural beauty, such as JMW Turner, John Constable and Rudyard Kipling. Most have roll-top baths and all showcase traditional British designers including Frette bed linen, Imogen Pope lampshades and Verden toiletries.

What did you eat and drink?

We devoured generous portions of homemade savoury pastries with a pint on arrival while the seasonal yet unfussy classics at dinner took us back to our childhoods – devil’s kidneys, elevated versions of fish and chips and profiteroles to finish, washed down with wine from local vineyards Ambriel and Stopham. The continental breakfast spread of homemade granola and pastries, locally farmed rhubarb, and boiled egg and soldiers is plenty to fill you up but when away from home it seems rude not to indulge in a cooked breakfast. You’ll find the usual full English but we opted for another nostalgic number – kippers.

What is there to do?

The team will happily arrange fly-fishing and clay-pigeon shooting at nearby sites as well as vineyard tours (Stopham, Ambriel and Nyetimber are all within easy reach) and there are some of the best cycling, running and walking routes in England right from the doorstep, including the South Downs Way. Easels and paints are on hand should you want to have a go at painting in the footsteps of Turner and Constable – prime spot is on the top terrace, where you get views of the Downs and Fittleworth Mill, famously painted by Turner. And don’t forget to look up once it gets dark – the pub is situated near one of the best dark sky spots in the UK. We sat outside with a night cap and gazed at the stars before turning in.

What do I need to pack?

Wellies so you can explore the surrounding South Downs countryside. Though if you forget, there is a selection along with waterproof anoraks available to borrow in the pub’s boot room.

Lasting memory

The home-from-home vibe – the recent renovation has taken this local up several notches from your typical pub stay without sacrificing its traditional and historic charm.

Sainsbury’s magazine insider tip

Book one of the two external stable block rooms (11 and 12). They’re dog-friendly and have room for kids but are equally sumptuous for couples with an upstairs lounge, private garden and honesty bar.