A pub in Sussex has been crowned as the best in the South East of England in a national awards ceremony dubbed the “Rural Oscars”.

The Kings Arms in Arundel picked up the prize at the 2024 Countryside Alliance Awards.

The awards which are now in their 17th year recognise rural businesses across five categories, this includes:

  • ‘Best local food’
  • ‘Best butcher’
  • ‘Best pub’
  • ‘Best rural enterprise’
  • ‘Best village shop/post office’

Sarah Lee, Countryside Alliance director of policy, commented: "We are proud to be honouring these exceptional rural businesses, and the people behind them who are passionate about providing quality goods, services, and employment to rural communities and beyond.

"Running a business in a rural community isn’t easy, and it’s so important to celebrate the valued role these rural enterprises have in their communities. We look forward to seeing them in London at the national champions reception!"

The full list of regional winners can be found on the Countryside Alliance Awards website here.

The Kings Arms picks up Countryside Alliance award

On its Facebook page, The Kings Arms describes itself as a "traditional English pub" that is renowned for its real ale and "warm atmosphere."

The pub is well-received by customers, having earned a 5/5 score on Tripadvisor from 55 reviews.

One person wrote: "What a delight. Excellent attentive bar staff, quiet conversation, excellent beers, a warm atmosphere and a log fire!

"You could not wish for more! I fully recommend this 400 yr old iconic pub in the heart of Arundel."

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Another shared: "Lovely old C15th pub, basic, fairly untouched and great for it. 2 bars serving real ales and a walled garden out back. Cheerful, helpful bar staff. Only in Arundel for a half day but visited twice as it was so good."

Meanwhile, another said: "Arundel is not short of shabby chic, retro, faux industrial pubs and restaurants to wow the London types, who are down for the weekend.

"However, if you want a decent pint, in a proper pub which doesn't feel like an art exhibition, then this is the place. Great atmosphere, friendly service and you can even bring your own food!"

The Kings Arms will represent the South East of England region in the national champions reception at the House of Lords in June, competing against other finalists from around England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland.