Two Sussex establishments have been named among the top 12 most 'perfect pubs' in the UK, according to a list from National Geographic.
The Basketmakers Arms in Brighton's North Laine and The Ypres Castle Inn in Rye were Sussex's two representatives on the list.
Detailing the reason for the creation of the list, the website shared: "Whatever trends come and go, there should always be a place for proper pubs — those iconic institutions that have been the cornerstone of British culture for centuries.
"A purist’s pub is their safe place — a calming quarantine of quiet contemplation, a serene antidote to modern-day madness, a cosy asylum where one can clutch a pint to one’s chest."
The full list of the 12 perfect pubs can be found on the National Geographic website here.
What did National Geographic say about the Sussex pubs?
Discussing The Basketmakers Arms in Gloucester Road, National Geographic wrote: "The old tobacco tins nailed to the walls are a nice touch at this lovely low-ceilinged institution. Each contains a joke, anecdote, erudite advice or surrealist scribblings courtesy of the leftfield characters that cram into this cosy, corner pub in Brighton’s bohemian North Laine.
"Purists may not like the fact that proper food is served but, fear not, it doesn’t detract from the discerning drinking — it boasts eight well-kept cask ales and a superb selection of spirits."
The Basketmakers Arms has also been well-received on Tripadvisor, earning a score of 4.5/5 from 360 reviews.
One reviewer wrote: "We were taken here by a local. Lots of interesting beers and a good selection of wine & spirits. It’s a good pub with a great atmosphere and friendly sky staff definitely worth a visit and only minutes from the sea & centre."
Another posted: "The Basketmakers is a lovely old fashioned fullers pub. The real ale is spectacular. They do have a food menu and also special boards. Very friendly pub."
Meanwhile, when discussing The Ypres Castle Inn, in Gungarden, Rye, the website wrote: "A tranquil pub with a white weather boarded exterior, low-beamed interior with a log fire, and sprawling garden with views of Rye’s magnificent medieval castle.
"The focus at the bar is entirely on great beer, local cider and natural wine, while the food is simply pork pies, Sussex cheeses and cured meats."
The Ypres Castle Inn has also been well-received on Tripadvisor, earning a score of 4.5/5 from 744 reviews.
Recommended reading:
- Sussex's best pubs and breweries in CAMRA's Good Beer Guide
- Stonegate addresses claims Sussex pubs 'at risk of closure'
- The Ram Inn and The Bell among the best country pubs with rooms
One person posted: "Warm atmosphere, intimate and cozy. Good German beer selection and the red wine was good.
"Perfect for pre-dinner or relaxing in the afternoon or evening with couples and friends."
Another shared: "Love this pub. Great selection of craft beers from excellent breweries, friendly service and a lovely suntrap garden. My kind of place."
