Located in a 16th century cottage on the edge of Copthorne village, and convenient for Gatwick Airport, The Old House pleases guests with its tranquil surroundings, inglenook fireplaces, old beams, and cosy alcoves.

Every year since 1999 the restaurant has been recognised and awarded AA rosettes for the quality of its food. A two or three-course fixed price, and a monthly changing menu are offered at lunch and dinnertime respectively. Of course, they also present á la carte menus for both meals.

Amongst the starters expect to find pork pâté, tiger prawns, and smoked salmon. Main dishes demonstrate Head Chef Alan Pierce's expertise; think chump of lamb, Dauphinoise potatoes, roasted parsnips, ratatouille and rich basil jus, grilled Dover sole brushed with olive oil and served on or off the bone, and Old House chicken and mushroom pie.

The desserts are particularly tempting and you will be forgiven for falling prey to the iced banana parfait. On offer is a list of over 130 wines, predominantly from France but regularly updated with numbers from the New World.