A Charming Country Pub in the Heart of West Sussex

The White Lion Inn is a charming 16th century pub where history, hospitality and exceptional food come together.

A Charming Country Pub in the Heart of West Sussex

The White Lion Inn is a charming 16th century pub where history, hospitality and exceptional food come together.

A Charming Country Pub in the Heart of West Sussex

The White Lion Inn is a charming 16th century pub where history, hospitality and exceptional food come together.

Welcome to our picturesque pub in the beautiful village of Thakeham, just on the edge of the South Downs National Park. Set within a lovingly preserved 16th-century building full of character and warmth, we offer honest, ingredient-led food, exceptional local drinks, and relaxed, genuine hospitality.

FRESHLY COOKED FROM PAN TO PLATE

Simply Good Classic Pub Food

Our menus are designed to highlight the very best ingredients our region has to offer.

We cook simply, allowing every component to stand proud—no frills, no tricks, just flavour, okay maybe a few tricks…

While we prioritise local sourcing, we occasionally select exceptional ingredients from further afield, because every great dish begins with the highest quality produce. Only our suppliers know how strict we are in receiving the best of the best when it comes to produce. We scrutinise everything that enters our kitchen door and if it doesn’t reach our high standard, we send the produce back!

FRIENDLY AND WELCOMING SUSSEX BAR

Welcoming Open-plan Bar

The bar at The White Lion Inn is the heart of the pub—a warm, characterful space where locals catch up, walkers rest their feet, and drinks are poured with care.

Set beneath exposed beams, our double-sided bar offers plenty of space to pull up a stool, lean in for a chat, or simply enjoy a quiet moment with your favourite drink. It’s the kind of bar that feels welcoming whether you’re popping in for a quick pint or settling in for the afternoon.

Gift Vouchers

A Thoughtful Gift of Refined Taste & Timeless Hospitality

Our Community

We’re Located in a beautiful part of West Sussex on the doorstep of the South Downs National Park in the village of Thakeham, a community we are deeply proud to be part of.

Quiz Night

Gather your team, sharpen your pencils, and join us at The White Lion Inn, for our ever-popular Monthly Quiz Night

What Our Customers Say

    
 
 
       Posted on Google  
   
   Ryan Worsley 
 17/06/2025
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. An exceptional dining experience, if you want Michelin quality food without Michelin prices then this is the place to go!
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Robb Green 
 13/06/2025
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Visited for a date night with my partner and our dog, and we had an incredible time! Food was delicious and the service was fantastic, would gladly visit again.

It's worth noting that while the menu doesn't list any allergens, the staff are very accommodating and many of the dishes can be made/altered to suit.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Mike 
 27/05/2025
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Fabulous pub. Great food - especially the Sunday lunch. Excellent service from staff and a well kept fire in the winter. Really nice and hard working chef. Dog friendly too. What’s not to like 🤷‍♂️
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   John Drury 
 18/05/2025
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We’re up in the area for Goodwoof weekend. Visited The White Lion for evening meal. Excellent pub/restaurant. All the staff were very friendly and did everything they could to make us end three dogs feel welcome. Excellent food and very good service, when up next year will definitely visit.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Anthony Bruchet 
 10/05/2025
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Most probably one of the best place I've had diner at in the UK. Everything cooked perfectly, sourced locally and sooo tasty. The family and I loved it! 😋😋😋
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Alex Bringes 
 12/04/2025
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Had a lovely meal in the garden with my son, burger for me, chicken goujons for the boy. Both yummy. Staff were very friendly, food arrived in good time. Everything was clean and welcoming. Definitely recommend.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   A Kennedy 
 02/04/2025
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Excellent lunch from the new Spring menu this afternoon!
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Christine Barrington 
 17/03/2025
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Have just discovered The White Lion. A joy! Down a chocolate box lane to find an idyllic pub. Wonderfully welcoming staff. Booked a roast for Sunday...sumptuous! Many sat out in the warmth of spring sunshine. The very best of W. Sussex. I shall return repeatedly!

FUNCTIONS AT THE WHITE LION

Private Dining Experiences

Host your private event at The White Lion.

Our charming ‘Gun Room’ can be booked for smaller private events. Separate from the bar and main dining room, The Gun Room is packed with character, with its large inglenook fireplace and traditional decor.

Larger events can occupy the entire pub. Weddings or other summer events can also take place in our beautiful garden.

DINE AT THE WHITE LION

Join Us for Lunch or Dinner

Whether indoors by a crackling fire or outside in the garden sunshine, you’ll find every corner of our pub offers something special – always paired with seasonal food, thoughtfully selected drinks, and a warm welcome.

FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM

Share With Us and Keep in Touch

We would love you to share your experiences at The White Lion. Follow us to keep up to date with our new menus and exciting news. Don’t forget to tag us in your posts too.

We’re back After our autumn break, we’re straigh