A WEEKEND AWAY
THIS MEDIEVAL BUILDING IN EAST SUSSEX HAS BEEN GIVEN POLIZZI PANACHE
Situated in the South Downs National Park, The Star in Alfriston, East Sussex, was once a medieval hostelry and has now been given an elegant overhaul
Close to the historic town of Lewes, in the village of Alfriston in the South Downs National Park, The Star was originally built in 1345 as a religious hostel for monks and pilgrims en route from Battle Abbey to Chichester Cathedral. Fast-forward more than 675 years and, having reopened earlier this year in a chic new guise, The Star is attracting culture buffs, foodies and nature lovers, who prefer the pilgrimage to Glyndebourne Opera House, Charleston (modernist home and studio of Bloomsbury
Set painters Vanessa Bell and
Duncan Grant), and the extensive walks in the surrounding area.
HOSPITALITY HERITAGE
The medieval building became an inn in the 16th century, attracting less holy patrons, and more recently became part of the Forte empire, owned by Olga Polizzi’s father, Charles Forte. Now it’s in the hands of Olga and her Hotel Inspector daughter Alex, and has been given an elegant overhaul. The Tudor building has been painstakingly restored, and a new section added with an internal courtyard and 30 individually designed bedrooms with either floor-to-ceiling windows, Juliet balconies or private patios.
ITALIAN FLAVOUR
The restaurant seats 60 and on a warm day spills over into its own pretty courtyard. Simple dishes made with seasonal Sussex produce are given an Italian twist by Head Chef Tim Kensett, formerly of The River Café. Expect wild sea bass fillet with green lentils, cavolo nero and salsa verde, followed by Northiam Dairy cheesecake with a biscotti crumb, or an affogato made with Holy Cow organic milk ice cream. The wine list includes a sparkling wine from the nearby Rathfinny Estate.
KICK BACK AND RELAX
In the oldest part of the pub, the beamed bar has two roaring fires and serves locally brewed beer.
Step outside, and beyond the charming village shops are scenic walks in every direction to suit amblers, ramblers and serious hikers. Rooms from £190 per night, The Star, Alfriston, East Sussex, BN26 5TA, thepolizzicollection.com