Though Greene King are the owners, this is NOT a Greene King pub. It is leased to and operated by Big Smoke Brewing Company of Esher, so one of the best pubs in the city for real ale choice. The building is believed to have started life in the C17th as a brewery then a debtors' prison, but this old pub, once of two bars, is now knocked through to form one big space wrapped round the bar with a smaller side room. The interior features brick pillars, half height painted wood panelling and beams adorned with pump clips.

The large space is sufficiently split up to create a cosy, friendly atmosphere with 2 open fires in winter. This is a popular, town pub frequented by families and adults of all ages.

There are 12 hand pumps on the L-shaped bar, not all in operation at once. 6 are for real ale, and 4 for real cider. The 20 craft keg beers are listed on a blackboard above the bar. Both keg and cask offerings include Big Smoke's own beers as well as others sourced nationally. Up to two of the keg beers are on membrane dispense. The pub has the best overall choice and variety of real ciders in Chichester, often carrying Sea Cider, a Sussex cider maker, with all styles of cider represented, including Welsh. Unobtrusive background music is played. A good food selection from snacks to full meals are available most times all day from noon until 9pm.