The Hope Inn, Newhaven, East Sussex

The Hope Inn is situated on the West side of Newhaven Harbour with good views of the Harbour and across the bay to Seaford.

We found it very friendly and the owners welcomed dogs in their bar.

There were plenty of tables inside and we could have gone upstairs for a better view if we had wanted. There were also tables outside.

The menu gave a good choice of light lunches and main meals. There was also an option for smaller portions at lower prices. The offer board had a good range of 'specials' too.

I chose game pie, served with mustard mash and fresh vegetables, while my husband had cumberland sausages and mash. We did not have to wait too long before our food arrived, freshly cooked. Both dishes were excellent and flavoursome...no microwave or freezer to table here! We enjoyed every mouthful and although we didn't have room for a pud this time we did like the selection offered. The only criticism we had is that the plates could have been warmed although fortunately our meals were plenty hot enough.

We did overhear the manager telling some fellow diners that they only ever use fresh fish and his description of their cooking methods whetted my appetite to return again.