Review by editor, Kris Thomas.
Nestled in the heart of the Sussex countryside, The Fountain Inn in Ashurst offers a charming and memorable dining experience. Dating back to the 16th century, this traditional English pub is steeped in history and character. The Fountain has long been a beloved local gem, once frequented by Sir Laurence Olivier who lived nearby. The pub also featured in Paul McCartney’s 1979 music video for Wonderful Christmastime, Today, it’s run by Alex Tipping, who took over in early 2013 after falling in love with its rustic charm. Alex and his wife Lindsay (and their son Brodie), have transformed The Fountain into a warm, family-friendly destination that blends heritage with hearty hospitality.
Traditional charm & cosy atmosphere
From the moment you step inside, The Fountain envelops you in its olde worlde charm. The exposed brickwork, low beamed ceilings, and flagstone floors evoke a timeless rural feel. The large open fire crackling in the front room adds to the cosy ambiance, making it the perfect spot to unwind on a cool evening.
The pub is divided into intimate nooks and bar areas, each with its own character. It’s also dog-friendly, and the pub’s own dog roams freely, adding to the relaxed, homely vibe.
A warm welcome & delicious dishes
We were greeted warmly and had met the owner Alex, who shared stories about the pub’s history and his journey as its owner. The service throughout was attentive and friendly, without being overbearing.
Our meal began with a splendid selection of starters, perfect for sharing. The creamy burrata paired with a mixed tomato salad was fresh and indulgent (pic above right). The chicken terrine, served with warm sourdough bread, was rich and satisfying. We also enjoyed hummus with warm pitta, and a special treat for our 13-year-old: cheesy garlic bread, prepared just for him. Each dish was well presented and full of flavour, showcasing the kitchen’s commitment to fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
Hearty mains for all tastes
For the main course, our 15-year-old son tucked into a succulent beef burger with cheese and skinny fries, which he declared “excellent!”. Our younger son enjoyed a generous portion of ham, egg, and chips, a classic pub favourite done really well. The specials board offered six tempting options. I chose the pork tenderloin, served with apple puree, a rich jus, creamy mashed potatoes, and savoy cabbage. The pork was juicy and tender, and the jus added an intense depth of flavour. Jeff opted for the blackened sea bream, another special. The fish was flaky and perfectly cooked, complemented by a flavoursome lemon and caper butter.
A garden full of surprises
Outside, The Fountain boasts a large garden adorned with string lights that criss-cross overhead, creating a magical evening setting. The adjoining barn by the pond offers a unique space for private functions. Inside the barn is a traditional wooden skittle alley, which can be hired for events. The pond and decking area complete the picturesque scene, making it a perfect venue for celebrations or simply a relaxing afternoon.
Our evening at The Fountain was delightful, it’s clear that Alex, Lindsay and the team take pride in creating a space that feels both special and familiar. If you’re looking for somewhere distinctive for a Christmas meal, The Fountain should definitely be high on your list.
Free bottle of house wine – mention Sussex Local!
Parties of four or more can enjoy a free bottle of house wine with a main meal and smaller groups can enjoy free coffee (or tea) after a meal.
Please mention Sussex Local or BN5 magazine to claim. Valid until 5th December.
The Fountain Inn, The Village, Ashurst, BN44 3AP 01403 710219 email: mail@fountainashurst.pub
www.fountainashurst.com | Open 7 days (25% off on Mondays – sorry, can’t combine with other offers above).
