The Star Inn Alfriston

The staff were a lovely mix of younger and newer faces and more mature, experienced people. They couldn’t do enough for us. This time I ate in the beautiful dining room, though The Star also has a cosy fireside bar. My trout was a delicious light meal and a welcome break from all the roasts around this time of year. My friend really enjoyed the hock terrine. We finished with a light, very gingery sticky toffee pudding. I also have to mention the Uruguayan Albarino, though it was annoying that I was driving and could only have a small glass. Alfriston is a treat, a village that feels like a time warp and a lovely place for a quiet stay. Maybe next trip, as the rooms look wonderful.

Collection Polizzi is a beautifully curated fashion shop next to the hotel, and I enjoyed the experience as much as the purchase. Jill, the manager, was warm and attentive without hovering. She knows her stock well, and her advice was spot-on without ever feeling pushy. Highly recommended.

Service was superb, relaxed and professional. Room 9 gets 9.5, the bathroom 10.5, service 10, the pub and bar menu 9, dinner 8 and breakfast 7.5. The location is super, and the car park is secure, which matters since parking in Alfriston is tricky. I’d recommend staying 2-3 nights. The Italian restaurant next door was excellent too, so book it. Many thanks to the Polizzi collection. Grazie.

The mince pies were lovely with our coffee, and the fire made the bar feel really cosy. We’ve popped in a few times lately, though we haven’t stayed at The Star, so I can’t judge the rooms. The staff were warm and welcoming, and Alex even mucked in. You can see the attention to detail, as you’d expect with Alex Polizzi. Highly recommended.