The newly refurbished restaurant with rooms The Halfway Bridge is now open

Rather than sit idle by during lockdown in 2021, the husband and wife team behind restaurant with rooms, The Halfway Bridge (01798861281 www.halfwaybridge.co.uk) in rural Lodsworth, West Sussex set about a total renovation inside – as well as building a new outdoor pagoda for relaxed dining and drinks, complete with heating and lights.

All eight rooms (five standard and three deluxe) housed in the former stables were also refurbished – and in fact have just retained their 5 Star AA Accommodation accreditation (12th year running). The gorgeous new-look interiors make the most of the wooden features and are furnished with natural fabrics and soft restful shades befitting the countryside stay.

As well as its onsite rooms, the Halfway has a cute new Shepherd’s hut for two, offering a double bed, shower room and toilet, wood burner and kitchenette; with an additional one scheduled to open this summer. For a small service charge guests can also use Betty the Beach Hut – a great respite from the crowds on popular West Wittering beach. Overnight stays for standard rooms and the Shepherd’s Hut start from £150 per room per night including a full English breakfast. http://www.halfwaybridge.co.uk Tel 01798 861281

Not just about the rooms, the Halfway Bridge, in the heart of the glorious South Downs National Park has been busy. When finally able to reopen, the 250 year old former watermill turned coaching inn also managed to retain its 1AA Rosette restaurant. A favourite local dining pub, it features hearty pub fayre with flair including a great value set lunch – just £22 for two courses and £26 for three.