We were lucky enough to be offered the chance to take over a beautiful traditional Sussex barn on the Firle Estate this winter for our Woodfire Feast Over Fire series. Every Saturday throughout November and December we transform a 400-year old barn at the foot of the South Downs and Firle Beacon into a Winter dining destination, set for 60 guests.

The menu celebrates the season, taking inspiration from a traditional British shooting lunch — but reimagined for today — a six course celebration of sustainable local game, wild venison and winter vegetables, cooked over flame and served lit by flickering fire against the backdrop of the ancient South Downs hills. 

Our founder Griff explains, “The location couldn’t be more beautiful – it has rough edges but is all the more atmospheric for it.”

Here is a sneak peek of the guests gathering for our first feast and the autumnal warmth that adds to the magic at one of these communal dining events.

Our aim was to offer an alternative to the traditional Christmas party, a communal festive evening for friends, family, teams and clients. A chance to leave the city behind and embrace the countryside.

The trademark Woodfire hospitality fills the barn with a buzz; guests become friends on long tables and share the joy of feasting with a procession of delicious local dishes, thoughtfully paired wines and specially crafted cocktails.

“It’ll be relaxed and informal, but special,” says Mary Singleton, the manager of our Firle campsite.  “We want to bring back some of the easy joy of eating together that we see in the summer; people laughing around the fire with friends.”

The barn is open every Saturday in November and December or bespoke events can be arranged.
Find out more.