Small pubs then began to open at an explosive rate across the county, offering drinkers a new environment, sometimes quirky, usually with a focus on conversation rather than loud music and often with delicious ales poured straight from the cask.
Not only have those early pioneers of the small pub survived but more and more are opening. Here, we celebrate just some of the smallest pubs in West Sussex. If your favourite hasn't been included, let us know!
5. Horsham Tap in Horsham
Horsham Tap, in Blatchford Close, Horsham, allows you to enjoy great beer only feet away from where it is brewed by Horsham Brewery Co. Photo: Dan Kitwood/Getty Images
6. Old Star Ale and Cider House in Shoreham
Old Star Ale and Cider House, in Church Street, Shoreham, serves beer from the cask plus cider, wines, spirits and soft drinks. Most of the beers are sourced from breweries within Sussex. Photo: Google
7. The Billi Tap in Billingshurst
The Billi Tap, in High Street, Billingshurst, was opened in July 2021 after Brolly Brewing, which has been producing craft and keg beers in Wisborough Green since 2017, teamed up with Little Monster Brewing. Photo: Google
8. The Brooksteed in Worthing
The Brooksteed, in South Farm Road, Worthing, is small but perfectly formed, focusing on traditional, craft and small batch drinks in a friendly atmosphere that promotes conversation and socialising. Photo: Elaine Hammond