The Bull Ditchling in the South Downs National Park near Brighton delivers modern British cuisine to your plate, sourced from the kitchen garden, farms and seafood straight off the boat just 20 minutes away. The Bull has been reinvented over the years, but retains its tradition and 16th century charm as one of the oldest buildings in Ditchling. Pop inside and immediately feel at ease with the cool greys, comfy lounge chairs and couches scattered with cushions. The inviting atmosphere exudes a vibrant energy through pops of colour, patterned flooring and friendly staff.
Keeping it local is integral to everything the Bull does, with the bar serving up over 20 wines by the glass including wine from Ditchlings Ridgeview Estate and with Bedlam brewery on site, guests can enjoy the freshest pint there is with craft beers on offer. Sip on locally made booze until 11pm and if you’re up early, start the day with a hot and hearty breakfast from 8am.
Tuck into the “grazing food” snacks or start with a beetroot and sweet potato tartare with watercress and orange. For mains, try a cookhouse classic or a large plate of whole plaice drizzled in a brown shrimp and tarragon butter and garnished with samphire and a side of saffron and chilli potatoes. Be sure to try one of the desserts from the menu such as the cherry bakewell with sorbet or lemon cheesecake with raspberry and basil and finished with a macaron. Pay the Bull a visit on Sundays and dive into a beef, lamb, pork belly or a sage, apricot and nut roast, all served with roast potatoes and seasonal vegetables.
Guests can also dine in the garden amongst the fruit trees and the kitchen’s garden, and take in the views looking out over the National Park. Watch your meal come together in the outdoor kitchen, lovingly called “the shack”, and complete with wood-fired ovens and charcoal barbecues.
At night, the garden comes to life with fire pits, festoon lighting and blankets given out all round. Kiddies will also love the garden with a pizza and BBQ menu on offer at the weekends. The Bull Ditchling also hosts events and special occasion meals, such as quiz nights, outdoor movie nights, wine tasting and barbecues in the garden with live DJs during the Summer Sessions.