A la Colthard/Crab & Lobster (Sidlesham)

Yesterday I arranged lunch with an old friend – a scion of the advertising industry who is well used to fashionable London restaurants.

So I was slightly apprehensive about how he would react to a gastro pub in Sidlesham to the south of Chichester particularly as it was raining.

This did not spoil an enjoyable  stop mid-morning at West Wittering beach called the Hamptons of the south.

I need not have worried about the pub which – as the name would suggest – specialises in fish.

I ordered the fish soup, he tiger prawns and both of us the Selsey crab au gratin all of which were delicious.

The advantages that such a pub has over London eateries are not just the price but a friendlier service and instead of confronting London fumes you drive through the picturesque village of Sidlesham with its pretty cottages.

All in all a most enjoyable lunch.

We shared the bill which was just under £200 for two.

The area has much to commend it.

Nearby you have Arundel and not far Petworth both of which have ducal estates; there are Goodwood and vineyards too to visit.

No wonder Sussex is so popular though I read locals are taking against London second-homers.