Old Alresford Restaurant Guide

Relaunched in January 2024 by the owners of the nearby 16th-century country house estate Avington Park – who stepped in to save the day after receiving a letter from villagers aghast at the closure of their beloved local – this “recently refurbished, attractive pub” is once again back in business. Nowadays there’s a “lovely outdoor terrace”, plus a village shop and deli, and rooms should you wish to overnight; on the food front, “good” small plates and pub classics, and it’s also “perfect for a traditional Sunday lunch”.

This August 2025 newcomer (opened too late for any feedback in our annual diners’ poll) occupies a converted 16th-century pub and is run by Kelly Shaw, a first-time publican, joined by chef Tristan Lee, previously chef-owner of the well-regarded Restaurant Tristan in Horsham (who has returned to the stoves after a two-year sabbatical). The aim is ‘not about chasing trends’ but an all-day kind of pub with food that’s ‘simple, seasonal and soulful’ from a short evolving menu (sample dishes include Spiced Monkfish with pakora; Pork Schnitzel with samphire and fennel remoulade; and Lemon Meringue Pie). There are also carefully curated beers, wines and cocktails.