About

The Star is a striking grade II Listed 15th century building in the medieval village of Alfriston, that reopened in June 2021 as a 30 bedroom hotel after an extensive renovation, with Olga and Alex Polizzi at the helm.  Alfriston is in the South Downs National Park, close to the historic town of Lewes and to both Glyndebourne Opera House and Charleston, as well as Rathfinny Vineyard.  Walking and cycling around the Cuckmere Valley is a great way to take in the incredible surrounding landscape of the Seven Sisters and the South Downs. 

The front of the hotel, known as The Inn, opens onto the High Street, and offers relaxed all day dining with local beers, open fires and oak beams. The library is a sanctuary for guests to enjoy a cup of tea or something stronger, play one of the board games or take a moment to read a book from the bookshelves.  The library has a secret door that opens onto the restaurant at the heart of the hotel.  The restaurant has its own inner courtyard and a walled garden, created for warm weather dining;  this highlight of the hotel has a Mediterranean feel, with interesting climbing plants, lots of terracotta pots and unique trellises made by the local blacksmith.  The restaurant serves simple, unfussy dishes with a focus on clarity of flavour, and the ever-changing seasonal menus utilise the abundance of exceptional Sussex produce.  The Star has the Muddy Stilettos Award – Best Boutique Stay 2022, the Sussex Heritage Trust – Commercial Award 2022, and the Good Hotel Guide Editor’s Choice 2023 - Dog-Friendly Award.

The hotel is fully licensed for weddings, often being taken over exclusively for such events.  There is a beautiful private dining room on the first floor, ideal for up to 30 seated for dinner or 54 standing.