Places to eat near Weald and Downland Living Museum, West Sussex
Enjoy a delicious, locally-sourced, home-cooked meal at one of our restaurants in and around West Sussex, close to popular attractions like the Goodwood Estate, Hever Castle, West Wittering Beach or the South Downs National Park.
The Royal Oak
Boasting 200 years of history and nestled away near the Weald and Downland Living Museum is The Royal Oak. Kids and dogs are welcome at The Royal Oak, and the menu, chock-full of pub favourites, has something for everyone, with gluten-free, vegan, and vegetarian options available for all dietary requirements.
The Old House Inn
Tucked away in the delightful village of Copthorne in West Sussex is The Old House Inn. Behind the bar you’ll find a selection of award-winning beer from our own Butcombe Brewery, and you’ll notice that our menus and daily specials also feature our own ales where possible – like our Butcombe Gold beer-battered fish and chips. We also have vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free options available, ensuring that there is something for everyone on the menu.
Welldiggers Arms
With beautiful countryside scenery on our doorstep, and a wealth of attractions nearby such as the Weald and Downland Living Museum, The Welldiggers Arms is the perfect spot for delicious food and thirst-quenching drinks. Our all-day food offer focuses on seasonal, locally sourced produce and hearty pub classics, with plenty of our award-winning Butcombe beer available to wash it down.
The White Horse
Set amongst the foothills of the South Downs National Park and just moments from the fascinating Weald and Downland Museum, you will find The White Horse. A favourite with locals and visitors alike, our ever-changing seasonal menus feature produce from local suppliers, along with a cracking range of cask ale, craft beer, cider, fine wines and classic cocktails.
A BRIEF OVERVIEW OF Weald and Downland Living Museum
The Weald and Downland Living Museum is not your typical museum; it’s a living, breathing experience. Spread across 40 acres of beautiful countryside, this open-air museum is home to over fifty historic buildings, each meticulously preserved and restored to its original glory. From medieval farmhouses to Victorian cottages, every structure tells a story of bygone eras, offering visitors a glimpse into the lives of those who once inhabited them.
Step Back in Time
As you wander through the cobbled streets and winding pathways of the museum, you’ll find yourself transported back in time. Immerse yourself in the sights, sounds, and smells of centuries past as you explore fully furnished interiors, traditional gardens, and working demonstrations of ancient crafts and trades.
One of the highlights of the museum is the working farm, where you can see rare-breed animals and experience traditional farming methods in action. From ploughing fields with heavy horses to shearing sheep by hand, the farm provides a fascinating insight into the agricultural practices of yesteryears.
Hands-On Learning
At the Weald and Downland Living Museum, learning is an interactive experience. Engage with knowledgeable staff and volunteers who are passionate about sharing their expertise and preserving historical traditions. Take part in workshops and demonstrations covering a wide range of topics, from blacksmithing and woodworking to bread making and traditional cooking.
For younger visitors, the museum offers a variety of educational programs and activities designed to spark curiosity and imagination. Whether it’s dressing up in period costumes, participating in historical games, or trying your hand at old-fashioned crafts, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Events and Festivals
Throughout the year, the Weald and Downland Living Museum plays host to a diverse array of events and festivals celebrating different aspects of rural life and heritage. From medieval fairs and Tudor banquets to vintage vehicle rallies and agricultural shows, each event offers a unique opportunity to experience the past in a fun and entertaining way.
Preserving Heritage for Future Generations
More than just a tourist attraction, the Weald and Downland Living Museum plays a vital role in preserving and safeguarding our cultural heritage for future generations. Through conservation efforts, research initiatives, and community outreach programs, the museum ensures that the stories of the past continue to inspire and educate long into the future.
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