Sat down at a table outside. Menus brought over. We had to ask the waitress to serve us. Place was not busy. We ordered our food and 5 minutes later the waitress reappeared and said, “can you pay for your food now in case you run off” I was offended by this and asked another couple behind if they were spoken to the same way and asked to pay upfront. They said no!! I went into the restaurant upset, to ask why we were required to pay upfront when the other couple didn’t. The waitress who served us was upset. I was never rude to the waitress, just offended by her approach and what she said. The Manager then descended from the kitchen and said to me, “why have you made my Staff cry” this was not my intention by the way and she never even asked what happened. Her staff are 15 years old, no training or experience in how to speak to a customer. The whole experience was disgusting. We got a refund and left the empty establishment

Like most have driven passed here lots and a week off thought it would be fun, and it was. Paperwork sorted quickly and a good briefing on how things work and off we went. My boys loved it and we pottered up the river for a hour and maybe should have booked longer. For a fun trip out check the tides and give it a go it's lovely. They two guys who run it we met were spot on.

Relaxing - We have passed this place on a number of occasions, so we decided to visit on our holidays during lunchtime. Parking is limited on site but you can park at the station (check first for charges) Visited the Cafe first. (Review to follow) A little pricey for the boat hire but enjoyable nonetheless. We had an hour, as we wasn't sure how our dog would find the boat ride. However he seemed to settle even though the plastic hull was slippery. We were all exposed to the Sun, so recommend taking umbrellas, drink for dogs and humans and sunscreen, as even the shortest hire time we felt it. The boat was very responsive fitted with outboard 4 stroke engine with simple controls, easy to use and straightforward safety brief. Pleasant boating on the river with some tricky navigation around sunken trees. Gentle slow movement required makes it very easy to navigate. We headed towards Arundel up stream, against the current. Obviously found it quicker on the way back, but bare this in mind when planning your trip. Recommend you ask for the fuel tank to be topped up if going out for more than an hour, as have others have said, it's a long wait if you breakdown! Throughly enjoyed our experience and will be back with friends in late summer! 5/5

Second visit to Riverside South Downs self drive boat hire. Both occasions the customer service has been the best I've encountered anywhere in a very long time. All of the staff are happy; friendly and make the whole signing in/briefing and formalities easy and relaxed. I can't believe on both trips how much information we were given; local facts / information about the river and surrounding area. The cost I think is incredibly reasonable for such a fun experience. Second trip was with kids and the staff were brilliant at interacting with them and making it fun/ getting them involved even when giving the safety information. Will absolutely be booking again. The surroundings of the river are stunning and because of how good the staff are it makes it well worth the money for me

Excellent morning at Riverside South Downs, highly recommended. None of our party had any experience using a boat on the river however we found it easy thanks to all the staff. There’s also the opportunity to have a slice of cake and a coffee afterwards at the cafe should you wish. Also, a big thank you for our guide ‘Lewis’ who was very helpful and knowledgeable throughout our morning.

Lovely experience boating up the river to find a great view of Arundel Castle. Staff were all very friendly and kind. 5 stars !

We had a great day out on the boat for my sons 11th birthday. Very nice people and great location. We had 2 hours and went to Arundel & back. I think 2 hours is ideal.

A great experience. We had a nice hour and half boating on the river, I'm a novice and managed most parts without a problem. Comprehensive guidance provided before you get on the water.

Absolutely gorgeous afternoon boat trip! Nice and highly professional service, clean and safe lovely boat. And plenty of wonderful photos, of course!

Terry at the boat hire is a top fella. We loved sailing a little boat down the Arun and back up. We all really enjoyed the whole experience. I would recommend this to anyone. You get to be a Captain for a day.🇬🇧👍