Riverside South Downs

4.7 ( 145 reviews )
Houghton Bridge, Amberley, Arundel BN18 9LP, United Kingdom
+44 1798 831066

Riverside South Downs, nestled beside the serene river Arun at Houghton Bridge, offers a delightful escape for nature enthusiasts and food lovers alike. Guests rave about the well-equipped lodges and stunning views, enhancing their overall experience. The on-site restaurant is a standout feature, serving delicious dishes prepared with care. Reviewers like Clive Emmerson emphasize the excellent service, noting that the staff’s friendliness adds to the welcoming atmosphere.

For those seeking adventure, boat rentals are a must-try. As highlighted by Archie Stats and Mikyle Swindells, the boats are well-maintained and provide a peaceful way to explore the waterways. The opportunity to spot local wildlife, including seals and swans, adds an element of excitement. After a day on the river, guests can unwind at the café, where the scones and tea have garnered particular praise for their quality and presentation. Amy Botting and Mike Carr’s experiences reflect the café's charm, complemented by attentive service.

Overall, Riverside South Downs is highly recommended for family outings or romantic getaways, where you can savor both the scenic beauty and delightful culinary offerings.

Amenities and More

  • Service options
    • Delivery
    • Dine-in
  • Highlights
    • Great coffee
  • Popular for
    • Lunch
  • Accessibility
    • Wheelchair-accessible car park
    • Wheelchair-accessible entrance
  • Offerings
    • Alcohol
    • Beer
    • Coffee
    • Quick bite
    • Wine
  • Dining options
    • Breakfast
    • Lunch
    • Dessert
  • Atmosphere
    • Casual
  • Crowd
    • Groups
    • Tourists
  • Planning
    • Accepts reservations
  • Payments
    • Credit cards
  • Children
    • Good for kids
  • Parking
    • Free of charge street parking
    • On-site parking

Reviews For Riverside South Downs

Clive Emmerson
Jun 24,2025
This place looked good, close to a railway station and South Downs Way. But it was so much better! The lodges were well equipped and compact with views over the river Arun. The on-site restaurant was excellent and the staff were lovely. We didn’t use the on-site bike hire but we did hire a boat. The boating staff were very professional and helpful. Nearby was a very good pub with great food and an Italian Restaurant over the road. We walked to Houghton where there was another very good pub with great food. Next to the Station was Amberley Museum with fascinating exhibits and really helpful staff. Overall, we stayed 7 days never cooked and never used the car once! Highly recommended, we will be back.
Archie Stats
Jun 21,2025
Had a great day here boating down the river definitely recommend at least 2 hours so you can get further down the river. Boats are well maintained and easy to use. Steady and rigid not like the inflatable kind they are solid vessels. All the staff are exceptionally pleasant, helpful and informative that clearly enjoy what they do. The same can be said for the tea room staff. Scones and tea were very enjoyable seated by the river to make for a lovely backdrop. Staff were attentive but not over bearing just insured that you had all you needed for a pleasant visit. Would visit again and highly recommend. They also offer bike hire and many walks and rides to be had in the area. Makes for a good family day out.
Amy Botting
Jun 3,2025
We had a fantastic morning! The staff were accommodating, friendly and helpful! Highly recommend hiring a boat, we wish we had hired the boat for an extra hour or even the maximum you can hire! We will be sure to do this again! And if you’re lucky, you’ll see the seal! The cafe was also fantastic! We stopped off and had some brunch after our trip down the river Arun! Food was really good and the waiting staff were super friendly & lovely! Thank you
Mikyle Swindells
May 17,2025
Rented a boat with a mate for my birthday. We had a cracking time, very peaceful and a brilliant activity - will be back in future for sure. Saw lots of ducks, some swans and a seal! Terry was so great too, very accommodating and friendly and had a great sense of humour when we got back wearing pirate hats
Mike Carr
May 7,2025
A few weeks ago we hired one of the little boats for an hour and a half and had a lovely time! The staff were great, very friendly and helpful and we were able to take our dog on the boat too. The scenery is lovely and you really feel like you’ve escaped from the rest of the world for a little bit!
Lucy Bartholomew
Apr 28,2025
Awesome morning at Riverside South Downs. We hired a boat for an hour then had lunch at the cafe, everyone we encountered was SO friendly and polite, wonderful customer service from all. Food was delicious and I loved the Beavertown alcohol-free beer. Terry has got a super team down there, we’ll definitely be back!
stephen powell
Apr 8,2025
Lovely place by the river. Good service and good food. Wasn't as busy as I thought but we had booked so that would be a good idea as I can see it being busy in good weather
Joe G
Mar 21,2025
Great peaceful boat ride. Lovely welcoming staff and then food in the lovely river side area pretty good will be back !

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