The Parsonage

Business Details

39 Years

experience

Experience History at The Parsonage Restaurant

Established in 1987, The Parsonage stands as Worthing's oldest restaurant, housed in a Grade II listed 15th-century timber-framed building with a rich historical legacy. Our journey began in a village granted to the archbishops of Canterbury in the 10th century, with ties to notable figures like Thomas Becket and St Richard of Chichester. Over 38 years, we have cultivated an enviable reputation for innovation and service, adapting to evolving tastes while preserving our unique heritage. Recognized with consecutive awards since 2014, including the 2024 TripAdvisor Travellers' Choice, we pride ourselves on delivering exceptional customer service within our historic Grade II surroundings.

Our courtyard garden, enhanced by iconic garden Jumbrellas, offers a distinctive setting for dining and socialising. Under the leadership of host Wayne Lowrey, we specialize in creating memorable experiences for both casual visits and special occasions, blending historical charm with contemporary hospitality.

Services

Restaurant Themed Events Private Dining Courtyard Garden Special Occasions

Details

Year established: 1987

Highlights and features

Award-winning customer service since 2014
Historic Grade II listed building with coastal ambiance
Sell-out themed events and private dining options
Iconic garden Jumbrellas create unique outdoor dining
Host Wayne Lowrey ensures personalized event experiences

Associations and certifications

TripAdvisor Travellers' Choice

What people say

Award-winning service Historic ambiance Sell-out themed events Garden Jumbrellas Coastal setting

Website

Update Listing

Services

Restaurant

Our historic restaurant offers traditional and contemporary cuisine within a 15th-century Grade II listed building. Guests enjoy seasonal menus featuring local ingredients, with special Sunday roasts and seafood platters for two. The atmospheric setting combines medieval architecture with modern comforts, providing a unique dining experience that has earned consecutive awards since 2014.

Themed Events

We host sell-out themed events throughout the year, creating immersive experiences for special occasions. These curated events combine historical ambiance with modern entertainment, featuring seasonal decorations and specially designed menus. The events programme has become a highlight of the local social calendar, attracting visitors seeking unique celebrations in our distinctive setting.

Courtyard Garden

Our courtyard garden offers al fresco dining enhanced by iconic garden Jumbrellas. This unique space combines historical architecture with coastal breezes, providing an atmospheric setting for drinks and meals. The garden's design preserves the building's medieval character while offering modern comforts, making it a popular choice for both casual visits and special celebrations.

Private Dining

We specialize in hosting private events and special occasions within our historic premises. The venue accommodates various group sizes with flexible spaces that maintain the building's medieval character. Host Wayne Lowrey personally oversees event planning to ensure personalized service, with options for tailored menus and decorations that complement the venue's unique atmosphere.

Historical Experience

Visitors explore a 15th-century timber-framed building with connections to notable historical figures. The restaurant's location in Tarring Village offers insights into Saxon and medieval history, with architectural features dating back to the Domesday Book era. This historical context enhances the dining experience, providing educational value alongside culinary enjoyment in a setting that has welcomed visitors for over six centuries.

People

Wayne Lowrey

Host

Wayne Lowrey oversees all special occasions at The Parsonage, combining hospitality expertise with historical knowledge. With extensive experience in event management, he ensures personalized service while maintaining the venue's traditional character. His leadership contributes to the restaurant's reputation for exceptional customer service.

Questions

What historical significance does The Parsonage have?

Our building dates to the 15th century and forms part of Tarring Village's history since 1066. It housed the Sussex Archaeological Museum in the 1980s and has connections to St Richard of Chichester and Thomas Becket.

Are themed events available throughout the year?

Yes, our sell-out themed events programme runs year-round with seasonal variations. Special decorations and menus create unique experiences for each occasion, with bookings advised in advance.

Can I book private functions at The Parsonage?

We host private events for all occasions with personalized arrangements. Host Wayne Lowrey ensures tailored experiences, offering flexible spaces that maintain our historic character while accommodating modern requirements.

What makes the courtyard garden special?

Our courtyard features iconic garden Jumbrellas that create a distinctive outdoor dining atmosphere. The design preserves historical elements while providing comfortable al fresco dining with south coast breezes.

Is there a dress code for dining?

We maintain a smart casual dress code to complement our historic setting. Special events may suggest specific attire, but comfort and personal style are encouraged within this framework.

How do I make a reservation?

Bookings are recommended via our website or phone. Tables are held for 15 minutes after reservation time, with flexible options for last-minute arrangements subject to availability.

Reviews (4)

Write a Review

Art Hutchins

Nov 19, 2021 Report

We chose the Parsonage for its menu and were not disappointed. The welcome and service from door to table to plate was friendly without being intrusive, and efficient. The food was well presented, delicious and memorable. We both agree that we will return again when next we decide to dine out.

Steve Jeffery

Nov 12, 2021 Report

What a night! Truly fabulous! The warmest welcome from staff. Beautiful ambiance and lovely table. This was a set menu to experience French cuisine. Lovely glass of Beaujolais on arrival. The restaurant was buzzing with that gorgeous noise of happy and excited diners. Friendly faces and smiles across the tables. Each course was delicious! French onion soup
Mussels
Salad Nicoise
Coq au vin
Tarte Tatin
Macarons
Incredible wines:
French Champagne
Sancerre
Chablis
All so beautifully served and prepared. The Parsonage is a really special place. Being there is always a delight.

Maureen Davis

Nov 07, 2021 Report

We are 3 friends celebrating 70th birthday. We had an excellent lunch and chose the lamb which was so tender. Good service from friendly waiter with a ready smile. Definitely will go again.

Lauren Tourle

Aug 27, 2021 Report

Have visited before. Beautiful building, very old & atmospheric. First time eating in outdoor courtyard tonight, great covered areas, weather (hard rain) no issue, outdoor heaters more than adequate. Food at usual five star standard. Waiting staff genuinely friendly, professional & added extra value to our evening. Staff managed several dietary requests well above expectations. Thank you, look forward to visiting again soon.