The white-washed front of The Cricketers with hanging baskets, green parasols and guests at the picnic benches

Guests sitting at picnic benches under green parasols outside the front door of the pub

A pint of lager on the bar beside the hand pumps and the clock

A parasol over the picnic tables on the lawn, framed by the flower borders and trees

Free house · Duncton, West Sussex

A traditional country pub
with a great restaurant.

The Cricketers

A real gem in the heart of the West Sussex countryside.

This charming family-run 16th Century coaching inn with a large Inglenook fireplace and set within beautiful gardens is the ideal place to enjoy real ale, fine wine and fantastic home-cooked food.

We are great believers in using local produce, suppliers & craftsmen wherever possible, which is reflected in our seasonally-based menu and bar offerings.

Dogs are very welcome in the bar and garden, so bring them along after a walk on the Downs.

CAMRA Dogs welcome Beer garden Rooms

Our history Contact us

We look forward to seeing you over the festive period — check Facebook and Instagram for Christmas opening times.

The Cricketers seen across the village green, dressed with bunting and flags

On the A285

Between historic Chichester to the south and quaint Petworth to the north.

The front of the pub with The Cricketers sign and Free House lettering above the door

Formerly The Swan

An inn since the 1640s, once owned by John Wisden.

A freshly pulled pint on the bar in front of the hand pumps

Real ales

A good choice of real ales, as recommended by CAMRA.

Tables laid under the stretch tent, lit with strings of festoon lights

Home-cooked

Pub favourites, Sussex game, fish and locally sourced sirloin.

The garden

Set within beautiful gardens.

Roses, borders and parasols on the lawn, plus a large new covered patio: a secluded spot for a pint or lunch whatever the weather.

Explore the garden

A flower bed of pink roses and purple catmint beside the lawn

A yellow rose edged with pink, in full bloom

Deep pink roses with catmint behind

A pink rose in the border, with a parasol over the picnic table behind

Honeysuckle on the decking rail beneath a cream parasol

A parasol over the picnic tables, framed by the flower borders and trees

Opening times

Pull up a chair, the fire's lit.

Food is cooked fresh to order and dogs are welcome. Booking is recommended at weekends.

Monday Closed

Tuesday – Friday Open11am – 10pm Food served11am – 2:30pm & 6 – 8:30pm

Saturday Open11am – 10pm Food served11am – 8:30pm

Sunday & Bank Holiday Mondays Open12 – 6pm Food served12 – 4pm

Charming, family-friendly pub. Great menu with lots of choice and very generous portions. Would definitely recommend!

D Sutton · Happy customer