Frost outside, fire alight inside

Winter in the South Downs

THE PIG-in the South Downs

THE PIG In The South Downs Small

Winter in the South Downs brings a certain kind of countryside quiet that the rest of the year never quite manages. The lanes empty out, the hills sit under mist most mornings and the fields around us settle into that lovely, sleepy winter rhythm.

Arundel is just down the road and particularly lovely in December - all castle views, twinkling lights and cold noses. Then you come back through the countryside to our little corner of the South Downs, where the fires are already going, the Kitchen Garden is tucked up for winter and a free-standing bath is waiting upstairs with your name on it.

Four good reasons to come in the cold months

Forget traffic jams and packed restaurants. In winter, the South Downs settles into a slower, quieter rhythm - the roads are calm, the hills are misty and there’s plenty of countryside to yourself. Perfect for spontaneous walks, muddy boots and warming up by the fire afterwards.

Arundel is just down the road, the South Downs Way runs right past us and there are footpaths straight from our doorstep that disappear into the hills, through mist, mud and plenty of fresh winter air. Head towards the coast for wide-open views across West Sussex, or just pull on your boots and see where the path takes you.

Our free Kitchen Garden tours run at 11am, every day, all year round. In winter, you'll see plenty of hardy root veg being harvested, shoots bursting through the beds to fill the ‘hungry gap’ at the start of the new year - and you’ll get a good idea of why our dishes taste exactly like where they’re from.

A roll-top bath after a cold walk is one of life's better arguments and our Potting Shed treatment rooms are quietly tucked beside the Kitchen Garden for when the day calls for something a little more. After that, it's the fire, a glass of something good and a supper that lingers all evening.

From late November, the South Downs has its own winter calendar of twinkling lights, festive markets and plenty of reasons to head out for the day. Arundel’s Christmas festivities bring the castle and town to life, while nearby towns and villages get into the festive spirit with local makers, food and plenty of mulled wine. Go midweek if you fancy taking your time, then head back to THE PIG-in the South Downs to warm up by the fire.

Back indoors

The good thing about a house in the middle of nowhere in winter, is that there's no particular reason to leave it. A cocktail at four with the fire going, cards on the table, and the quiet conundrum of whether you can be bothered to change for dinner. You can't, but nobody minds.

Winter on the plate

Our flavours are at their most wholesome and hearty at this time of year - think best-in-season local game, warming braises and plenty picked, preserved and cooked from our Kitchen Garden. Expect dishes that make the most of what’s around us, from slow-cooked game and root vegetables to pickled and preserved garden produce, all served up with a proper taste of the South Downs.

Take a peek at the menu