They have long been a place where fairy tales are based.

But in a corner of Sussex not that far away, there is a castle which defies all folklore.

Amberley Castle simply breathes history - more than 900 years of the stuff.

Set in stunning Sussex countryside just north of Arundel, the estate has its origins with the Bishop of Chichester.

Converted into a hotel and restaurant in the late 1980s, it now offers fine dining in one of the most remarkable places anyone will ever care to eat.

Approaching the venue along a dirt track, it becomes immediately apparent that this is no ordinary dining experience.

Surrounded by a curtain wall, the castle remains impressively intact – complete with a moat, portcullis and huge heavy wooden doors.

Lunch was served at 1pm - but not before a chance to sit back in the library where a curious concoction of appetisers were served.

This included a cherry tomato lollypop, offering a bit of childlike humour which warmed the soul as much as the roaring fire in the corner.

It was the work of chef Robby Jenks – a protégé of multi Michelin winner Michael Caines – who now is making great strides in wowing critics himself. The wide variety of his work is evident in the tasting menu which we opted to try.

Served in the mightily impressive great hall, on offer was the best of British which had to be seen to be believed.

The highlights included a langoustine cannelloni with shellfish bisque – one so delicious that could have led me to drink straight from the bowl – and a scallops starter which was so simply matched to the ingredients of a Waldorf salad.

From start to finish every course was interesting, tasty and had something to delight.

Although not to my taste, I also admired the creativity and work in creating the desert – Butternut squash and Tahitian vanilla squash mousse.

At £85 a head for the taster menu, this may seem steep.

But I can guarantee that what comes through the serving hatch was well worth the money.

In fact, it will supply you with a host of tales to rival those story tellers of years gone past.