'A good-priced base from which to explore this lovely area on foot', this family and dog-friendly hotel, made over in the Signet Collection's signature style with playful patterns and bold colours, has the South Downs Way on its doorstep, the Cuckmere river running past the garden. Our inspector appreciated the 'generous touches', including a glass of wine on arrival, home-baked cookies, Madeira in the rooms, Bramley toiletries, complimentary sweet pantries in the corridors. Pleasant bedrooms, some overlooking the lawn 'made for croquet and afternoon tea' are decorated in gentle pinks, aqua green or teal, with fabric headboards. One small gripe: soundproofing could be better. In the dining room, with its candy-striped chairs, pink and green fabrics, cosy woodburning stove, 'we knew we were onto a winner after one bite of homemade focaccia'. There followed ‘potted smoked trout with Melba toast, melt-in-the-mouth shoulder of lamb, and the most surprising and delicious dish, cauliflower steak served cold with fennel and pomegranate’. There is more informal dining in dog-friendly Godfrey’s bar. A reader who agreed 'the quality of the food is excellent', also enjoyed the spa with sauna and outdoor pool. A special mention for manager James Dopson whose 'passion for the area really comes across'. (Sam Chance, and others)