It is more than thirty years since Sarah Burgoyne first welcomed guests to her Georgian manor house, 'in enchanting gardens and grounds', where 'deer roam at dawn and birdsong is guaranteed'.

There is star quality indeed at Olga and Alex Polizzi's updated version of a historic Tudor inn, in a charming medieval South Downs village.

A colonial-style Victorian villa with galleried veranda has been refurbished in fine style, with 16 classy bedrooms and an airy restaurant serving locally sourced, seasonal, modern British fare.

Being remodelled as The Alfriston. An outdoor heated pool, extensive grounds, Downs views, individually styled bedrooms and refined dining are among the attractions at this dog-friendly hotel on the banks of the River Cuckmere.

'It would be beautiful in summer,' said our inspectors, whose tour of this vineyard, on the slopes of the South Downs, was marred by rain.

In a birding paradise at the heart of the Seven Sisters Country Park, Emma and Paul Neill's characterful 16th-century farmhouse is a comfortable B&B with an onsite café, on a flood plain where the River Cuckmere wanders through.

For a romantic escape or a stylish seaside retreat, this quintessential British beachfront hotel, offers an unparalleled coastal setting in the heart of Brighton.

Works by local artists adorn this owner-run Victorian townhouse B&B a short stroll from the pier, with individually styled bedrooms and many pleasing touches.

Bohemian Brighton is artfully encapsulated in this Regency townhouse with its cool vibe, quirky furnishings and neighbourhood café-bar.

Across the road from Hove's shingle beach, Ben and Pamela McKellar's Edwardian mock-timbered gastropub is 'loved by locals for its foodie reputation'.