Gribble Inn, Ovingback to pub details please note - reviews on this site are purely the opinion of site visitors, so don't take them too seriously.
Lovely thatched pub in a nice rural location, that is home to the Gribble Brewery. There is also a nice garden at the front. Inside is quite cosy and all of the ales are produced by themselves - Reg's Tipple, Woodpecker's Hole, Plucking Pheasant, Pig's Ear & Gribble Ale. Two more were being pulled through. There were also a couple of ciders - Lilley's Rhubarb Cider & Sandford Orchards Berry Lane. I'd not had the latter before. So, I had that instead of trying the local brews. Lovely pub. Although it did feel a little cliquey.
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I came across this by chance on a busy Friday evening - but once past the crowd of large but amiable regulars the service was excellent and the food and drink just what we wanted - simple but good ingredients. I'd definitely go again.
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This seems to be a pretty contraversial pub (perhaps there is little else to do in Oving) so I'll offer you my impressions from having visited there roughly half a dozen times a year for the past 5 or 6 years.
Walk in - 3 or 4 florid locals at and around the bar eye you up and then continue their slurred conversation.
Approach bar - a very young barmaid looking slightly haggard from all the regulars' jokes and leers tries to force a smile.
Select drink - this pub has many beers. Frankly too many. All have 'humorous' titles. I generally pick one at random as there is little difference in taste, merely alcohol content.
Sit down - either in the cramped interior or the pleasant garden and wonder how such a beautiful spot can have generated such an average pub...
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The what beer ?
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Further to my previous review, seems a pity that today's landlord has to labor under the disparaging comments inherited from previous landlords. Can we not wipe this site clean and start again?
I have been back several times and each time has been a good experience. Can I recommend the 'Fuzzy Duck' beer next time you come.
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Crikey, this site is a bit of a minefield. Poor old Gribble!
Well WE had a lovely time. Delicious Sunday Roast and the usual wonderful beer. If you lot continue with this bitching you are going to talk this delightful pub into the ground. Clearly a lot of personal differences going on here. Get over it.
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Thought I'd take another look bearing in mind other people's comments. Two of the three beers we tried were a bit lifeless but the Wobbler at 7% was superb. The barman was a bit stretched as everyone seemed to come in at once. The food was good and the student serving was very polite and attentive. We did see some people returning their food mainly because it was cold. All in all it's an ok pub and being a fan of brewpubs I am a bit biased but I wouldn't rush back.
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Went to the gribble for the very first time and not impressed. We arrived 5.45pm Saturday 20/08/11 and went straight to the bar. No one was there and then a young girl who had been reading at a table next door got up to serve us. The bar looked like it could have done with a clean as there were wet beer rings over the top.The 'barmaid' was frankly useless when we asked which of the beers she could recommend-she just shrugged her shoulders! We then asked for a menu as food apparently was served from 6.00pm- she replied that there were no menus as she hadn't printed any off yet and made no attempt to offer to find us in the garden with one.! Give the job to someone more deserving! We drank up and went for dinner at another pub where staff are friendlier. Also - what is with the gravel in the garden? its horrible!
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Mm. Well I quite liked it. Having said that I haven't been for around 20 years and chose it as a suitable stop whilst on a cycle ride. At lunchtime the atmosphere in the bar was jolly, the food good and the choice of beer, brewed on the premises, excellent, going from a golden to a brown to a black. Couldn't fault it and will go back.
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Just had to comment on the fact that this old gem has sunk to such so low that they only had 4 tables for valentines day, obviosly the local trade that the stones built up have voted with their wallets and gone, just the ignorant bunch that the stones banned for three years including that fool brian left, Tip of the day, ban the little bunch of nomars again, bring back the family room, get rid of the mobile phones, and beg the normal people back in the pub AND get rid of ex copper / hall & woodhouse brown nose brian, you may be suprised at the good it will do you, oh and please please please give us are country garden and leave the beach in bognor
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If the last posting is true then this pub is in grave danger of a trip to court soon, but you can never tell with this pub as you can see so many bitchy comments flying back and forth which might put you of going their but hey Rob is still hear brewing away happily, when he is not three sheets to the wind at the bar, the beer is great and the same chef is there from the days of the pub going to court and you know he can only get better, add this up with the added bonus of the country garden giving way to a rather splendit beach and you have a day out for all of the family.Hell I still go there just for the crack and to chat with the holding managers.
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I have used this pub many times in the past but wont go again . New landlord has changed a lovely pub garden into something resembling a beach car park which also makes it completely inacessable to use unassisted in a wheelchair. I therefore went to sit inside and was told to sit in a corner so as not to be in his way this is an appaling way to speak to any customer disabled or otherwise. I wont be visiting again and urge other wheelchair users to boycott this stoneage landlord and his premesis.
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Payed this pub a visit for the first time in about 18 years and was pleased to find it more-or-less unchanged. Lovely atmosphere and good beer brewed on the premises - my pint of Pig's Ear was excellent. Didn't try the food, but it looked pretty good. Highly recommended.
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Just called in for a drink 'cos my partner used to come here years ago. Looked very inviting & although we didn't eat, the food looked good. Will definitely return some time in the future for a meal.
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We visited 1st & 2nd July during Goodwood Festival of Speed weekend. The food was excellent , arrived quickly. At the bar area, although busy, we were acknowledged and served quickly. We enjoyed the food so much we returned the next night. Kitchen coped extremely well, fast efficient service and excellent standard and presentation of food, especially as on Friday all the tables inside were taken and the garden was full. I hope the new landlords do well, they deserve to. Definately worth a visit.
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Greetings pub goers!! I am new to this site, and I am also new to the Oving area and the Gribble. I came on this site to write reviews about the pubs I visit as I settle in to the best County I have ever lived in! You have no idea how disappointed I am to read the petty squabblings of people who clearly would never get on if they shared the same space anywhere in the world, let alone this wonderful pub!! So it is a good job some of them have voted with their feet!! I can only judge the Gribble on what I have seen so far, and not what has gone before. As far as I am concerned the 'New' owners are doing a fantastic job, the beer is excellent, and I could hardly believe the choice. I was then astounded to be informed that out of 8 real ales on offer 7(yes 7!!) of them were local. So local in fact they are brewed on the premises - FANTASTIC! I have yet to sample the food, as I was enjoying myself too much at the bar getting to know the beer & 'my new neighbours'. But I will treat my wife to a meal soon (if she's lucky). What I can say, however, is that the amount of people dining gave me an indication that it couldn't be that bad, or they wouldn't have had so many people tucking in. Good luck to them, they're getting the formular right as far as I'm concerned.
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Greetings equitablyaboveboard. Well now. There was me thinking the days of stupid postings on this site were over. Obviously not. Thank goodness you wont be visiting the Gribble anymore and I'm sure the Landlords of The Fox, The Old Barn and The Four Chesnuts, as well as the other pubs you have posted inane comments about will be over the moon if you drink else where. You seem to be a grumpy ill informed self opininated Camra member whose sole intention in life is to try and impose your own warped and twisted views on others. Your comments about the Gribble are crazy. When Bri and Cyn were running the Gribble it was always packed from opening to closing time. The menu was sensibly priced, varied and excellent and the Specials Board was alway imaginative. Steak and Kidney Puddings, Steak Pies, Bacon and Onion Roly Poly, Thai dishes, Chinese dishes and many other mouth watering dishes. I don't recall Brian and Cyn having to get customers to fill in forms from local papers in order to win awards and I certainly don't recall them being taken to court for massive infringements of the Food Hygeine Regulations. If you are a friend and supporter of the stones, don't, under any circumstances,let on in the Pub because I know that many of the returning locals will want to show you the door. Finally, give Simon, the new Landlord, a chance. I shouldn't think there a many new Landlords that have taken over a pub that has had the worlds worst couple running it and changed it around over night. If you don't like it, drink else where.
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Heard about it did not believe it but it is true Oving now has a beach !!, had to go and look for myself and yes they have dug up and shingled the garden, tragic, would not go in if the beer was free anymore, poor old Gribble.
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This pub was the worst run pub in West Sussex with the rudest couple running it we have ever met going out anywhere, then it got better, much much better in everyway you could think of, sadly now the last tenants have gone, 'to their own freehouse I heard' well good for them I am sure with their skills they will do well, but that does nothing for the poor old Gribble, which is now sufering again - poor food high prices old riff raff back 'although I am sure they will be booted out soon' beers are good as you would expect from Rob Cooper, mobil phones back kids now aLOUD anywhere. Went in two weeks ago on a Saturday Evening to find local birthday bash going on, and we could hear the foul goings on at the bar from in the 'Gastro bit' we were in for our grub 'very descript' no more old fav's just small portions at high prices, read some of the other reviews so expect to be insulted by local pleb's and ex manager Brian, very soon.Not for us anymore unless the Stones return, but I am sure that being the real deal they would hold to the Landlords code and not return even for a visit ever PITY brainless Brian and his abusive tribe dont hold to this code but he probably does not even know it.
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Visited Saturday - 2nd visit since the new Landlords took control. Firstly the positives; the pub was fairly busy, great atmosphere, and the beers were tasting fine. So far so good, back to The Gribble of old I thought....
Then we sat down for Dinner. To be fair it is early days for the the new crew, but I just hope they can improve things pronto....
The prices being charged no way reflect the quality of food being served. If you want to charge Gastro-pub prices, make darn sure your food is of Gastro-pub quality - and then some. Its not; its nowhere near. In fact its pretty poor quality, so If your going to sell average food in fairly small portions fine - but adjust your prices accordingly.
We will be back - for drinks; clearly the new Landlords are on the right track, and I note there are adverts up for kitchen staff, but as far as food goes there are countless other country pubs serving far far better food at more competive prices.
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2 points
Firstly regarding my own personal experiences of the Gribble, the change of management can only a good thing, hopefully this delightful inn with now have the direction it deserves.
Secondly regarding Vanessa�s comments regarding the inhabitants of Highfield Lane, Vanessa since you deemed it acceptable to insult everyone who lives here on a public forum it is only appropriate that there is a response. You have never met me yet the accusation is that we are �chavs and loud mouths� as posted on 11/03/09 is deeply insulting, it is best not to tar with a broad brush���. As you mention in your post a day later �gossip flys round this village� � yes it does and I will ensure that your comments are shared and known. Hopefully you will follow the Stones and drink elsewhere as I�m sure many villagers would not wish to have your continued pretentious presence in their local.
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Sadly to say the stones have left footso, went in for a meal this weekend gone and had a poorly cooked steak, rather medium rare than well done, the selection of wines were nice but the one i choose was corked.
however was nice to see some of the front of house staff had stayed as they were welcoming and lovely. cannot really comment on the new landlords qualities as he was definetly on the wrong side of the bar. come on we need a landlord to chat and have a laugh with.
Will go back as local from the village just hope the food improves drastically as it was a shame to see such a beautiful pub spoilt by the food.
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As long as this pub continues to brew on the premises I don't mind who runs it. Great beers here, the ones not brewed in Blandford that is, it was Hall & Woodhouse that put the bland in Blandford!!
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What a super pub! The "ever-loving" and I popped in a couple of weeks ago, on the way home from Brighton. I had been in a few years ago, with a business acquaintance, but found it a little "stuffy" to be honest. Lucky not to be driving this time, I could sample some of the delicious ales (in perfect condition) and we enjoyed a delicious bite to eat. The staff couldn't have been more charming, and it is always a joy to chat with a Landlord who is a proper publican.
Imagine my horror, when I looked on this site, to find that the present incumbents were possibly leaving! I, for one, hope they don't!
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We were redirected here from the large modern local at Tangmere (The Bader?) which couldn't provide food due to redecoration (staff were playing pool anyhow!). Boy what a find, mid-week, a lovely sunny day, an old thatched Sussex pub with a large selection of cask ales and above average food. Highly recommended.
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Hi nightrider1 and countrymember.
The good news is that the Stones are only on a short term contract and that things are getting closer to a change. I do know who the possible new licencee is but I think it would be unfair to mention names until it is confirmed. Word around Oving, Bognor and Chi is that when the change takes place, the first night for the new Licencee will be MEGA MEGA busy welcoming him and his team. Can't wait. Have to say that things still haven't improved
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Hi contrymember,
The latest update is that the Stones have been asked by Hall & Woodhouse to stay on at The Gribble . The brewery have a number of other premises which they are finding difficulty to let and I guess if the Stones leave, they may find getting new ones not that easy, the economic climate being what it is.
The good news is that talks are still going between H&W and a well liked and experienced local pub landlord who is keen to take on the Gribble. Crofton and others will know who this is.
Regards,
nightrider1
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just read some of the comments - could someone update me and others as to when there will be new landlord??
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went to the gribble today for fathers day with the family, was really happy that the current tennants are still there, had a lovely lunch in the garden, food was great, service could have been faster but they were very busy, overall had a great time, would recomend to all
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The gribble is my favourite destination pub. Throughout the seasons the Gribble offers an excellent choice of fine ales. Sitting in the lovely beer garden on a summer's evening with a hearty Altons is bliss.
Sunday roasts are superb and the BBQ's ain't bad either. There is something for the whole family at this pub - good ales, wholesome food, friendly welcome, pet friendly also, plenty of space in beer garden, cosy atmosphere inside and a thatch that really has to be seen. And it's refreshing to have a pub in this day in age that says no to annoying mobile phone users inside the pub, meaning it's possible to sit and read the Sunday papers in peace with my pint.
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i have just singed up to this site coz im a real lover of real ale, and thats why the 1st pub to right about has to be the gribble, ales such as fuzzy duck and puzzles, are superb and as for the legend that is the wobbler{ not for the light drinker} is stuning to drink in the sun trap of a garden, the food that is served there is well worth what you pay for and on hot days thay love a bbq, and if like me a bit of a chater box, the staff are so nice last time i was there 2 weeks ago i think after a long bike ride from bognor two of the staff alex and clair sat with me on there brake for a chat i have to say very good looking at that. over all a wonderfull pub and i think his the landlord is allways happy to see you
so my tip is this ,if the sun is out theres only one place to sit for a pint the gribble!!
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Good morning to one and all.
Well, it seems that this pub has split the opinion of people who do and don't use it. All I can do is to report on my experience when we visited for Sunday lunch a couple of weeks ago.
Upon reaching the bar, we were greeted by a friendly (and my wife still talks about, handsome!) barman who helpfully guided us through the range of on site brewed ales ... offering us free tasters too!! We were even introduced to the brewer, so a big thumbs up to him.
Our Sunday roast dinners were lovely, with fantastic cauliflower cheese and crackling topping off the dish. Although I couldn't manage a dessert, the ladies in my party certainly polished off theirs! A very helpful and efficient waitress too, and between her and the barman we received great all-round service.
All in all, our experience of this pub was very good. It is a shame that others have not had the same, but we will definately be going back.
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Greetings to one and all.
This is the real BRIAN.
I have read with sadness and sorrow, laughter and amusement, all of the comments that have been made on this site over the years. I wish to state that the last time I posted a comment, any comment, was in July 2004 under the name of Brian. I also posted a comment, on the same day, under the name of Robin (Brewer).
Vanessa (vknight00), stop making a fool of yourself. That is if you really are nothing to do with the incumbents. It�s you that is the gullible clown. Facts speak for themselves. Kitchens, lack of trade, brewer on 3 day week, customers not returning due to bad service, court cases. Read Downsriders comments re food. I don�t recall that happening in the days of Cyn and myself. I have had nothing to do with the abhorrent reputation that the Gribble has attained and certainly would not have lowered myself to your level by posting stupid comments and assumptions. If only I had the power and ability to make all that happen. That was achieved by others.
All on their own. By the way, Cyn and I have been left the Gribble 5 years, so get it right. Beware the power of the residents of Highfield Lane. They almost certainly will respond.
Nightrider1. Sounds like you�ve heard the same as me. It will be much sooner than later. Do they really want to leave? Is it really their choice? Will have a beer or two with you soon.
Crofton. How�s Dubai? Shame a lot of your comments were deleted by someone. ??? They obviously didn�t like hearing what you and loads of others had to say.
Well now, this will be my last posting unless of course, some other stupid inane person decides to put a load of incorrect gobbledegook on the site. You�re all entitled to your opinion and comments but please get it correct.
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Erratum. That should read West Sussex.
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Well there you are, the strength of feeling for this West Wessex pub is demonstrated by the amount of pros and cons offered on this site. For those who will return I wish them well, for others who have found another watering hole, like my wife and I, it won't make any difference as we now prefer the warmth and atmosphere of another in Halnaker.
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The quality and variety of beers cannot be faulted and the pub interior is fantastic, rustic with log fire.. Unfortunately the food lets the pub down badly. My calves liver was undercooked, the mash looked, tasted and had consistency of packet mash and the veg selection was overcooked, limp and looked eeb worse. It was well overpriced for a basic lunch. The 2 curries for �10 board outside should have sounded a warning, always a sign of a pub desperate for customers.
Come on Gribble, sort out and the food and you could be on a gold mine...
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vknight00,
nightrider1 is definately not Brian and if you look at my posts, I have not stated anything detrimental about The Gribble Inn just the facts.
The lease for the pub Iis featured on the H&W website as being for sale. That is irrefutable, ergo The Stones are wanting to leave. That is their choice and I was just stating that which is true. I reiterate that I am not Brian.
Regards,
Nightrider1
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Brian you are a clown, stop trying to ruin the reputation of a pub because you are jealous that you could not do the same job there when you were in charge, it amuses me that you create accounts and talk to yourself over a internet website, surely you have something better to do with your time.
you should be aware that gossip flys round the village, and everyone is talking about you writing these comments, you are pathetic and need to grow up.
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vknight00 (Vanessa),
I doubt the residents of Highfield Road Oving would concur with your opinion of them. However, as the lease of the Gribble is now up for sale (see my earlier link) your enthusiastic support is probably fruitless. There's enough comment on this site for viewers to make up thier own minds and maybe smile at the punctuation, spelling and grammar of the various posters.
Nightrider1
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i recently moved to the village around 6 months ago, we now use the gribble inn weekly and are completly bimussed why the pub and the people within it are consistently being slatted through this website.
fortunatly some of the villages dont visit the pub, keep it this way, this pub is no place for chavs and loud mouth clowns. i luckily do not live down highfield lane otherwise i would have already moved.
we previously visited the pub before we moved to the village, me and my partner have been visiting for around five years, and the difference which has occured since the current landlord and landlady is massive, it went from being a dull and boring locals pub to a vibrant place with great food, company and drink.
to anyone who visits the pub and does not enjoy the experience will be lucky the didnt five years ago when brian was in charge, maybe the worst occupant a pub could have.
its a shame about the last few comments, the pub should recieve the right comments to suit its reputation, it is a brilliant pub and i would personally recomend it to anyone.
vannesa
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Take your point Crofton, but the brewery has to regain an awful lot of lost trade, brewer on three day week etc. AND that rental!! �XXXX.XX a month outgoing before you even start on the other overheards, unless there's a big renegotiation that is. Mr J will be sorry to see a change in tenancy, or maybe there's an opening there.
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Nightrider1
I don't think it's that high if it includes the brewery as well.
I think lots of people will be interested especially if they have a free hand with the brewing, plus at least 20/30 villagers will return. The party is already being planned.
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Visited the Gribble last night (Sat) and was dissapointed to find that the old crew of locals had still not returned. Not supprising really when the Tennant Landlord and Landlady are so rude., they think they are being funny. ?? Tried the Reg's Tipple. No where near as good as it used to be, then I found out that after all the years it had been brewed at 5% they had lowered the strength. Over heard that the Tennants want out. Hurry Hurry. Oving, Chichester, West Sussex want thier Old Top Notch Pub back.
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Hilarious. Three "separate" posters include the words friendly, recommend and definitely, all spelt wrongly and the same way.
If a place has to fake reviews in order to win custom, there is something very wrong. Also, two consecutive people rated it exceptional.
The only thing exceptional is the cheek of some people!
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Well, what do you want from a pub. Real ale that is different - it's brewed on the premises. Food - a good selection and what I had was of good quality. A few locals on Sunday lunchtime and efficient bar staff. We all have our own ideal of the perfect pub and this one does a good job of ticking most of the boxes. Where do the rest of the "commenters" find a better place?
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Not a bad place but I'm not going to rate it as shipmate 1 and narwhal11 are probably the same person and most likely associated with the establishment. You both spelled friendly the same incorrect way within minutes of one another. Shame.
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Yes - these people make it so obvious, don't they ? Even dogs love it; they'll be on BITE next praising newly arrived dog biscuits ! A 3 rating for contrivance.
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Is it just me or is there suspicion cast over the last 6 comments ( all full of praise ) for this pub and everyone joined on or around the same day and some with only minutes between comments(whats the saying about self praise?), come on mangment/staff of The Gribble don`t take users of this site for mugs,the pub if its good enough will get good/bad comments from genuine customers not the Bull crap just printed.
Will call in when next in area.
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what an exceptional place
full of cheery staff and freindly locals,
great home brewed beer on pump and even got a look around the gribble microbrewery.
just had some light bites for lunch in the splendid garden, food was lovely and i nice portion for what we paid, definetly value for money,
recomend to everyone was truely great visit
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had a lovely meal in here last night, food was fabulous and the drink was exceptional, well my husband certainly enjoyed the choice of real ales!
we took the dog up with us, and he was entertained by puzzle most the night, yes the adorable pub basset hound! a must meet.
i would recomend this beautiful and freindly pub to anyone!
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i was at the gribble in a few days ago, and boy was it a brilliant trip,
we went in for a sunday night meal and the food was excellent and accomponied by some homebrewed tasty beers, i would recomend regs tipple, it was a delightful brew,
i had concerns with the kitchens hygiene, when mentioning this on entry to the pub the very pleasent and freindly member of staff assured me that it was thing of the past and even let me have a look in the kitchen, and it sure was clean, and it shows the confidence of the pub that they were happy for me and my wife to look around the kitchen,
it makes you question why they were fined by the goverment!
the pub was stunning, with a large and beautiful garden with outdoor heating, perfect for a smoker like my wife. and the eight brews on pump were all delightful.
yes i tried them all, they now offer a taster tray, small glasses of each brew acomponied with some light bar snacks for a brilliant price, i've never seen this anywhere else!
the pub atmosphere was brilliant, full of freindly people who all seemed to enjoy themselves,
i'd definetly go back and i would recomend it to anyone.
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All I was to say was.... what addictive beers!!!
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No atmosphere???
I just searched this pub to get a phone number to book a table for this weekend after having an incrediable night at the pub on friday!!
I am very shocked to see anybody would write that the pub was dull!
I took a potential girlfriend to The Gribble on friday for dinner. There was a live band in the bar area, and the pub was full of friendly people dancing and drinking from the huge range of gribble brewed ales!!
Have to say that Bashfull beaver was a tasty number!!
The bad comments on this site should be discredited, had a Great night, only down side i could find to the pub was that one of us had to drive!!
Will certainly be going there again!!! :-)
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Went to the Gribble on sunday with my family. Had a Brilliant time, the food was Fantastic! The service was good, staff seemed very friendly and were very "chatty".
Sunday roast seemed expensive but once it appeared on the table, with all its trimmings it was well worth every penny.
Will definatley go to the Gribble more often.
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I've tried The Gribble several times. Everytime I think "another go...?" and everytime I leave disappointed. The beer is good. Perhaps that should be the only consideration?
On the toher hand, the food is dull and overpriced, the family room is dank and lifeless (even with children in it) and the whole pub in need of a fresh direction. A place can only trade on past glories for a limited period.
Phmoo - 22 Sep 2008 21:16 |
It's nice to see that people who work in a pub care about the comments left here, so I really hope this comment will be taken on board.
We visited the Gribble Inn yesterday for lunch in the garden with another couple, 2 toddlers and a baby. The food was fine, the beer lovely and the service very attentive, however the garden was covered in dog mess which for people with children running around, is pretty unpleasant.
We did comment on this to staff who apologised and suggested that it was 'other people's dogs', however we did arrive first thing - the shit was there - and there were no dogs to be seen all afternoon! Suffice to say we don't let our children crap in pub gardens and wouldn't expect dog owners to either.
So with both adults and children's shoes covered in shit in the car boot we returned home having had what could have been a lovely afternoon somewhat ruined. To be honest I can't see us going back.
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As a member of staff from the Gribble Inn I suppose I could be considered biased, yet I cannot pretend that I am not hurt, alongside other staff members by comments made about the place I love to work in.
The Gribble Inn is one of the few traditional pubs left in our local area that still stick to traditional principles such as no mobile phones and a lack of foul language and I think more people should acknowledge how rare and enjoyable that is.
Different pubs suit different people, however the Gribble strives, alongside the staff, to provide a welcoming and enjoyable service to all customers.
From the local farmers to the elderly couple from down the road, even to friends that come back every year from America for a big family do, you are welcome and treated respectfully.
The recent issue with the kitchen, something that was blown out of proportion, is in the past, I won't comment on it because it was to do with our previous chef and previous complaints. Our chef at the moment is both hygienic and knows how to prepare and serve a freshly made meal that would satisfy even the hungriest, fussiest eater.
I guess my main point is to give us a try. Sites like this are useful to decide where to go or what to try next, but that shouldn't result in dismissing a place entirely on not continuing to try something new.
We are, thankfully, one of the few pubs also open every day and all day during the summer. Always advisable to book, especially during summer months as we're a wee bit busy at the moment!!!
Hope to see a few more friendly faces soon!
- Gribblet
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A sad state of affairs. Pub has just been fined almost �4000 for dirty kitchens. Visited a few months ago - thank goodness we didn't eat - we haven't done so since the Chef changed a year or two ago.
The place seems to be a former shadow of itself. On the whole it hasd a generally scruffy feel about the place. Such a shame.
We won't be going back unless there is a change of Landlords and significant improvements.
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Spent a lovely evening in the Gribble last night just have to say how good it was, or the saying goes perfec, food great, beer 'hopping hare' great, company warm friendly and fun, chat with the brewer informative while he was sobber, micro brewery changing hands, and the last links with old, ignorant dictatorship about to be severed, 'brewers words' so great.best pub in south and has the awards to show it.
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"borninoving" is that a statement of pride or an admission of guilt? And honey, don't write in capitals, its bad manners.
Thanks also for saying that you stand in the corner (you naughty boy!!), we'll know to avoid you when me and the girls next come to the "Gribble" for a few pints and a giggle or two.
We're CAMRA of course, sorry you don't like us sweetie, but it it wasn't for us, loads of pubs would have disappared by now, and you wouldn't be able to drink your "larger" in many other places other than your living room.
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GREAT PUB SUPER FOOD IS IT ANY WONDER IT WON PUB OF THE YEAR 'OBSERVER GROUP' FOR CHICHESTER IN 2006, AND PERFECT REAL ALE PUB SPONSERED BY THE TELEGRAPH, & THE PUBLICAN NEWSPAPERS DONT UNDERSTAND WHY ADVERSE COMENT ABOUT THE FACT THAT SOME PEOPLE DRINK LARGER, I DO AT TIMES AS WELL AS THE LOVELY KEPT LOCAL BEERS, AND MY WIFE DRINKS MY WIFE DOES NOT DRINK ALCOHOL 'GREAT FOR ME' AND OFTEN HAS FRUIT DRINKS LIKE J2O OR H'S NEVER WE NEVER BARGE ANYONE AND ALWAYS HAVE GOOD TIME AT OUR LOCAL AWARD WINING PUB IF WE DID HAVE A MEAL AS DESCRIBED BELOW WE WOULD NOT BE STUPID AND GO BACK, SOUNDS LIKE TRAIN SPOTING, CAMRA LOVIN, FULL OF MYSELFE ONLOOKER TO REAL LIFE TO ME ,BUT DONT LISTEN TO ME TRY THE PLACE, I WILL BE THE ONE WITH THE BREWER IN THE CORNER, NOT BARGING PEOPLE OR EATING REPULSIVE FOOD.
BORN IN OVING
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As an ex-regular, I stopped going cos it all changed when the new landlords came in. Before, the people were friendly, the beer and food were great and it was a fine place to spend (many) an evening. Now the loud pair seem to have brought in a load of loud ignorant lager and fruit bottle drinkers who barge their way through you to the bar. The food the last two times I dared it was not even average - cheap meat and cold/overcooked veg. nice. Even the beer has gone downhill as its not doing the volume to justify 7 or 8 pumps. And as for their, erm, band...
There are plenty of decent pubs around here, this used to be one.
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Dear..oh..dear, what on earth is all this turgid and verbose written nonsense all about ? It's one of the best pubs in Sussex so why are the locals moaning ?
Biker - 13 Dec 2007 09:59 |
Hi localtooving.
perhaps my comments as a like minded LOCAL might point a finger or two and explain why the large numbers of locals from the village and surrounding towns are meeting else where now.
Crofton
anonymous - 20 Nov 2007 14:21 |
lovely pub, lovely village, is there an explanation why very few locals use it..................
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Enjoyed a quick half here yesterday afternoon after a trip to the nearby Tangmere Aviation Museum. This pub had been recommended to me and for the short time I was there it lived up to expectations. Now I need to think of an excuse to visit the pub again -with somebody else driving so that I can try more of the ales on offer.
The landlord needs to fix the squeaky hanging sign though - torture if you sit in the garden.
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Met some friends holidaying in the Chichester area and suggested The Gribble as it was featured in the Good Pub Guide. So glad we did! The building itself is gorgeous, and has a beautiful garden. The real ales are excellent, and the guys were thrilled to find the micro brewery on site. We didn't unfortunately have time to eat, but will definitely be back to do so, as the food looked delicious.
The landlord and staff are very friendly and welcoming, and the pub has the most lovely and soppy dog we've ever met. We'll be back very soon!
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Went back to this gem of a pub after leaving comment some months ago and believe it or not it just gets better and better food is very good beer kept in tip top condition staff friendly and helpfull owners both welcoming and obviosly no there buisness very well and it shows this pub has leapt up with the best in the last couple of years know wonder it has just been short listed for southern area real ale award in the daily telegraph which they should win, easily the best pub in west sussex now its not a managed house
JAMMY - 25 Apr 2007 12:28 |
Popped into this pub as a result of seeing its name on a tourist map. Well I am glad that I did. The beer brewed in the attached microbrewery is a tasty pint. The food is really good as well. They have a basic menu, but that is exactly what I like!
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Taking a Saturday evening drive we found the Gribble Inn.....being a lovely summers evening we sat in the garden and found the atmosphere fantastic. The manager and staff were friendly, the food was excellent and my husband couldnt get over the ale at �2 a pint.....all in all a very enjoyable evening...will certainly be back time and time again
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On a brief visit to West Sussex with no time to waste was recommended this gem of a pub. Fabulous choice of real ales and a wonderfully varied food menu. My companions and I were made to feel very welcome by the Landlords family and their efficient staff. A very pleasant experience which we will look forward to repeating often on our next trip.
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Crofton, I too am am not related to anyone at The Gribble in any form - mearly just a 'punter' who likes a decent pub with decent ale. I can only agree with Brancastrian 100%. Good food, great atmosphere, fantastic location, jaw droppingly good ales. I visit about 1-2 times a month, for both food & Ale. Quite simply one of the best pubs in Sussex
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Sorry Crofton, but I am not a friend or family member of anyone who works at,owns, or otherwise has an interest in the "Gribble". Indeed, I'm a Norfolk exile who does much of his pubbing in Norfolk, but, because of work, is stranded for much of the time in the Chichester area. The "Gribble" is therefore my pub of choice, and, knowing a lot of damned good pubs in Norfolk, I have high standards and expectations when I sup/eat down here...
I can never recall any of the staff having a "sullen" attitude-not to me, my wife, friends, or otherwise. We are always greeted when we go in, and, as I walk through the bar, the regulars give the usual chirpy warning to "mind my head" as I'm close on 6'5" and the beams are low! The attitude is spot on-friendly but not intrusive, the beer is, as you concur, excellent, the atmosphere, well, a pleasant and positive respite from the norm-no music, no boorish teenagers, just quiet and considered conversation and the clink of glasses. Perfect!
The food is what you would expect-good pub food, nothing too fancy, but what they do, they do very well. Again, the service is good-friendly but discreet, the waitresses don't pretend to be your best mates here (an annoying trait at many pubs and guaranteed to see them miss out on a tip!) The sausages, S&K pie and steaks are done well, taste good, come to the table hot, and the helpings are not so gargantuan, that you feel you are defeated before you even begin.
Always a goodbye and a thanks when we leave, its reciprocated. The "Gribble" is a good example of a pub thats not 'in your face', it has everything that you need, and the staff are there and helpful if you need them, in the background if you don't. I'm sorry if you don't enjoy it there any longer, but lets face it, there are loads of other pubs you can go to in the area-and remember, sometimes perceived "attitude" in staff and personnel is a mirror of whats coming at them, so do bear that in mind.
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Visited on Saturday night for the second time (first time dining). The Steak & Kidney pudding is a must and having tried four of the ales, Reg's Tipple was my favourite. Can't understand why anyone would knock this place as it's a gem. They even ban mobile phones!
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I went to the Gribble for the first time this weekend for my fathers Birthday lunch.
I was hesitant after reading some comments made on this site, I have to say what a wonderful friendly, welcoming pub, the people who own it Dave and Linda Stone made us extremley welcome and served 6 of us one of the best pub lunches I've had.
Highly recommended pub with great beers, especially liked the Reggie.
Will definatley come back again.
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Cannot see the problem people are having with the Gribble.
Regularly visit for beer and food, former always a good variety, backed up with their own beers, latter is what you would expect at a village pub, and it is a PUB people, not a 5 ***** Restaurant, what are you looking for, exactly? Service is commendable and friendly, and the locals will always find time for a chat with you as you stand by the bar, a rarity these days where the silent treatment is more often used. To my mind, "sullen" staff are reacting to being treated as nothing more than skivvy's by rude and demanding "customers", maybe if they improve their attitude, they'll get the response they expect-this is 2006, bar and pub staff are people, not your servants!
anonymous - 11 Jan 2006 12:26 |
Great pub,wonderfull food,really maid my family welcome New Tenants just what the place neaded after years of neglect already changed so much for the better always plenty of specials on as well as the full Menu, 90% home made & local products great for my children to with Rabbits in garden, giant genga & conect 4 for anyone to use Skittle alley a must, brewer always about and happy to chat asked him about beer running out and he laughed at the idear 'probably landlord just cleaning pipes between Cask changes was his sugustion and that there are a few old people that dont like change in any shape or form. recommend the Reg's Tipple & steak & kidney Pudding, A MUST IF YOU LIKE COUNTRY PUBS
JAMMY - 21 Aug 2005 18:21 |
Popular local which brews its own beer. It's situated on the very edge of the village, which is in between Chichester and Bognor Regis. The food is good, and reasonably priced, and the building (a thatched house with a lot of nooks and crannies) interesting.
The basic bitter, also known as Gribble, is excellent.Very bitter and served at exactly the right temperature to refresh you on a hot Sunday.
It has a small beer garden, although this is not suitable for little kids (it leads out onto the road)there is a non-smoking room in the dining area, which supplies high chairs.
Andy Butler - 16 Jun 2005 15:00 |
This pub is definitely Plucking Pheasant ... and incidently that is the name of my favourite home brew they serve ... yes it really is home brew, they make it out in the back yard and superb it is! Another real ale drinker's grail not far from the historic cathedral city of Chichester. The Gribble is a pub not to be missed!
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For the real ale drinker, this pub is a must for the beers they brew "themselves" such as Fursty Ferret, Gribble Ale, etc. It's a 16th century cottage (owned by Badger incidentally) where you'll find all the ingredients of your typical English pub (low beams, good food, real beer, rural setting. There's a pretty garden, but the tables are crammed in so it can be a bit hectic on sunny days when it gets busy. Parking isn't too much of a problem, but get there early if you want a seat! Nevertheless it's worth the journey.
Robin - 24 Jul 2004 17:15 |
A most pleasant country inn selling really good real ales.No mobile phones are allowed on within the pub. They have a good beer garden and a pleasant atmosphere.
Brian - 6 Jul 2004 12:34 |
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