BETWEEN THE SHEETS

Sunday Mirror, Aug 19, 2007 by FIONA JAMES

THE BULL AT DITCHLING, EAST SUSSEX WHAT TO EXPECT: Arrive on a Sunday afternoon and the stylishly revamped Bull Inn will be buzzing with drinkers and diners.

By evening flickering candles and large leather sofas give it a cosy and inviting appeal. Landlord Dominic Worrall toured the country studying the most popular pubs, pulling together the best ideas from all to create a modern gastro pub and hotel in the village of Ditchling.

In winter it's cosy with log fires and a snug and in summer it's airy with garden seats and the doors thrown open.

Above the bar are four well done-out bedrooms, each stylishly decorated. We stayed in the Ruby Room, which has deep crimson walls and a vast leather headed bed and sofa. The fluffy Egyptian cot ton quilt was so comfortable we overslept and almost missed breakfast.

Bathrooms have power showers or in our case a wonderful roll-top bath with a giant gold buddha from Bali overlooking it!

ON THE MENU: An impressive range of food, from delicious sea bream on artichoke risotto (pounds 13.50) to roasted local bangers with red wine gravy (pounds 9.50). It was seriously good food and served in the busy bar or in the quieter seated area the other side.

The roasts are worth travelling for on a Sunday too. Breakfast is beautifully laid out on a large pine table with a fresh fruit platter, pastries and crusty loaves and one of the best cooked Full Englishes I've had.

WHILE YOU'RE THERE: You have the fun and beaches of Brighton just 15 minutes away. Or the historic village of Ditchling is at the foot of the South Downs and its picturesque trails. Great for a long hike or cycle ride - to burn off that breakfast.

WAKE-UP CALL: The Bull, Ditchling, East Sussex. Double rooms from pounds 80 to pounds 100 for bed and breakfast Phone 01273 843147 or email info@the bullditchling.com website: www.thebullditchling.com