Matt Gillan’s Heritage restaurant to become ‘events-led’ space

Gillan says the venue​​ - a former pub in Slaugham just south of Crawley - will retain ‘the ethos of hospitality’ and will offer ‘unique dining experiences’. 

Examples include high-end dining in the garden, with everything cooked over coals; a masterclass followed by lunch; a gourmet weekend retreat; a silent disco with snacks; or private parties for eight or more people. 

“As the fifth anniversary of Heritage approaches, I have reflected a lot about the journey,” Gillan explains “The idea was very simple - to create a beacon of hospitality, in the Sussex countryside.”

“We have embodied hospitality like no other restaurant I know and I am so proud of everything the team, past and present, have achieved and gone on to achieve. We have been challenged every step of the way, yet evolved and continued with our pursuit of creating that beacon.” 

The final service of Heritage under its current guise will take place on 5 August. 

Gillan launched Heritage in 2019​​ following a successful crowdfund campaign.  

Originally from Hampshire, Gillan has a cooking CV that includes time with Daniel Clifford, Gordon Ramsay and John Campbell and won a Michelin star for his food at The Pass at South Lodge Hotel in 2011, holding the accolade for a further four years.

He has also appeared on Great British Menu, with his main course being chosen for the main banquet at the end of the show in series 10.

Prior to launching Heritage Gillan cooked at a number of restaurants in Brighton including Pike & Pine and Thai barbecue concept The Lucky Khao.