A "haunted" freehouse has been named as the best pub in West Sussex.
The Royal Oak in Hooksway, near Chichester, was included in The Telegraph's list of the best pubs in England's 48 ceremonial counties.
The list, published on January 9, was selected by "expert" Will Hawkes based on "years of assiduous research".
The Royal Oak was chosen as the best pub in West Sussex.
Mr Hawkes said: "Nestled in the gentle folds of the South Downs, The Royal Oak is a former ale-house that has retained at least some of that bygone flavour.
"Given its location, it’s very popular with walkers, who are drawn as much by the quality of beer as the physical charm of a pub with more than its fair share of stories."
It is said to be "haunted" by the ghost of William 'Shagger' Shepherd, a sheep rustler who operated on the South Downs in about 1680.
The pub is also said to be "unspoilt" with "great country walks" nearby which make it popular with hikers, horse riders and young families.
There is a large garden and in the winter there are two log fires.
The pub offers three permanent real ales and a regular guest ale, all mainly from local breweries.
Husband and wife duo Dave and Sarah have run the pub since 1990.
