Day: 1 December 2023

With 2023 drawing to a close, we more than deserve a bit of festive fun to close out the year. But if you're bored of the four walls of your house and would rather have someone else get a sweat on this Christmas Day, here are some venues with fantastic options for the big day. Get in there quick, though, as tables are going faster than Santa's reindeer! The Hartington PubIf you're after a smaller, more casual affair this Christmas, then a ‘Harty Party’ might be right up your street. You can book a table at the friendly Hanover pub for Christmas Day dinner for £85 per person (kids £65). That will get you get you three courses, with veggie and vegan options for each, plus a glass of Prosecco and nibbles on arrival. Head here for a relaxed home-from-home atmosphere with some Christmas bangers in the background and a huge tree and open fire – perfect if your festive commitments aren't until later on in the day.1pm sittings; email to book or call 01273 68287441 Whippingham Road, Brighton, BN2 3PFthehartington.com Aydo LoungeIf you don't mind not having a traditional British Crimbo meal with all the trimmings, then check out Turkish restaurant Aydo Lounge (we heartily enjoyed our meal when we visited a couple of months ago). The glitzy but friendly restaurant offers two three-course festive menus, each featuring a range of Middle Eastern specialities and grill options.From £44.99; various times available3 Boardwalk, Waterfront, Brighton Marina, BN2 5WAaydorestaurant.co.uk CHRISTMAS DAY FULLY BOOKEDHove PlaceHove Place is a bit of a hidden gem, with many people - usually those who live in Brighton - completely unaware of the pub's tasty bistro food and gorgeous Italianate garden (with heaters!). They've built up a bit of a reputation for producing high-quality, interesting dishes and this year's Christmas Day menu is no different. The treats start on arrival with Sussex sparkling wine and nibbles. Luxury produce, such as lobster, Wagyu beef and truffle, feature prominently in this extravagant menu, which champions creativity across all its dishes – meat, fish and veggie alike. Want to do it all again for New Year's Eve? They've got a menu for that, too!£135 per person for four courses; sittings at midday and 3.15pm 37 First Avenue, Hove BN3 2FHhoveplace.co.uk The Crown InnIf you’re willing to go a little further afield this Christmas, The Crown Inn is a great bet. This award-winning, dog-friendly country pub in Dial Post, just outside Horsham, is known for its excellent food, not to mention its comfy sofas and cosy wooden-beamed interiors. Co-owner and head chef James Middleton Burn always uses fresh, locally sourced ingredients and, as a keen forager, you can expect some of his tasty wild findings to make an appearance on your plate. You'll be treated to perfectly cooked traditional classics, with veggies and vegans well catered for, too.£85 per person for three courses; midday - 4pm; call 01403 710902 to bookWorthing Rd, Horsham, RH13 8NHcrown-inn-dialpost.co.uk FULLY BOOKED, BUT OPERATING A WAITING LIST The StonehamThe spacious dog-friendly Stoneham pub over in West Hove is offering a hearty menu for the big day. You'll kick off the proceedings with bread and olives, dips and a glass of Prosecco, before diving into three courses, featuring traditional favourites and decent veggie and vegan options, plus chocolates to take home.£110 per person (children under 12 £70); sittings at midday, 1pm and 3pmBook online or email thestoneham@live.co.uk or call 01273 383840153 Portland Road, Hove, BN3 5QJ By Oscar Edwards

Day: 1 December 2023

Where to go for Christmas Day dinner in Brighton and beyond

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