If you’re a frequent flyer from Gatwick, then we’ve got one of West Sussex’s best kept secrets to share with you – The Old House Inn. Check in the night before your flight for a chilled evening, a decent meal and a comfortable night’s sleep.

The black latticed windows, wonky ceilings and oak beams are clues as to the age of this converted farm worker’s cottage, but inside this charming inn it’s been lovingly transformed into a true country dining pub.

Depending on the season, you can dine al fresco in the garden or by the fireside. Prefer a bit of intimacy with your meal? Then the snug’s for you. The menu is creative, marrying pub classics with inventive variations. For example, I had the roasted chicken and shiitake terrine wrapped in prosciutto and pistachio with an apricot and edamame salad which was an impressive starter albeit unconventional for a pub menu, while for my main I enjoyed a homemade classic steak and ale pie with creamy mash.

There are six en-suite bedrooms located in the converted barn, all stylishly decorated and overlooking the large garden. Each room has been named after local woods and the local woodland has definitey influenced the decor, with rich earthy tones setting the mood.

If you’ve got time on your hands before your departure, I’d recommend exploring the surrounding countryside. The South Downs is ideally suited for avid walkers, cyclists and horse riders.

For more information visit www.theoldhouseinn.co.uk