The Rising Sun at Nutbourne, pictured in around 1910, in a postcard which was sold in the village shop
The Rising Sun pictured in 1983 - already operated by the Howard Family
The Rising Sun today
The Rising Sun is a fine old stone building, which was extended in Victorian times.
Local ironstone was used extensively in the construction. Many of the original features remain unspoilt
in a house which dates originally from the sixteenth century.
The public house has been at the heart
of village life in Nutbourne for more than eight generations, adapting
to suit changing needs
over
170 years while retaining its charm and distinctive personality.
In Edwardian times the
backroom was adapted to bring moving pictures to the hamlet, with the enterprising landlord
acting as
both projectionist and usher, offering refreshments that were unrivalled anywhere in Sussex.
The rise of talking pictures saw the back room change role to become a clubroom for community activities,
doubling-up as a polling station and headquarters for the local Women's Institute from 1953 until 1968.
Besides visiting to imbibe in the fine local ale and enjoy the home cooking and traditional gardens,
local people still go to the pub to collect their papers and to vote, though nothing today can
rival the
exploits of local farmer Clive Allen, who used to take his prized black steers into
the
bar for their daily pint in the 1980s - truly a sight to behold!


Publicans Tristan and Oliver Howard maintain a proud family tradition,
keeping The Rising Sun one of Sussex's true hidden treasures,
that is well worth seeking out and enjoying.