BITE user comments - southdown12jack
Comments by southdown12jack
Harvey's are giving up the lease on this pub. Dom and Tony from the Snowdrop in Lewes will be taking it on in the New Year. They intend to keep it as a village local and it will be free of tie, so expect a similar range of beers to that at the Snowdrop, i.e. some Harvey's beers, some Dark Star and guest ales from other Sussex microbreweries. Changes of licensees at favourite pubs can be a worry but in this case I don't think we have anything to fear.
1 Nov 2010 12:55
The Horns Lodge, South Chailey
I can confirm that there were two ciders on (in the pub) when I visited during the festival. �5 is not a bad price for a beer festival these days and, as stated below, the proceeds went to charity, so don't be such a Scrooge! This is one of my favourite pubs in the area. I just wish the bus service was better so I could visit more often!
28 Sep 2010 12:21
Driving is NOT inescapable. There is a regular bus service to the end of the road. The walk of just over a mile will give you a thirst which will readily be quenched by the beer. Just make sure you don't leave too late and miss the last bus!
4 May 2010 13:26
Hepworth's Prospect is a regular with a guest beer usually from a Sussex brewery such as Dark Star. Last night it was another Hepworth's beer Dark Horse which was excellent, if a tad pricey at �3.10 for a 3.8% beer. The cider is rather on the expensive side too. That said the beer was in very good condition and there are plenty of dearer pubs around in Brighton.
18 Mar 2010 11:08
Harvey's Brown Ale? Do you mean Old? Or was the extremely rare Lewes Castle Brown Ale on? If so, it's worth every penny. I was in there on Monday and the Mild at �2.80 was in very good condition. You could easily pay a lot more for far inferior beer in many other pubs in the area.
10 Mar 2010 09:50
As others have said, this pub has improved dramatically recently. I visited several times around New Year and was impressed. The beers, whilst not out of the ordinary, were all well kept. I saw nothing of the goings-on mentioned by LocalNE but anything like that should be stopped immediately.
2 Mar 2010 12:40
I can only agree with the latest reviews. This place has come on by leaps and bounds since the new people took over. It's a bit out of the way but well worth the effort to get there.
25 Feb 2010 14:08
Currently closed and being refurbished and rebranded as "Lincoln's".
10 Sep 2009 13:18
I called in here as the Albion was closed. It was very quiet for a Friday afternoon. Only had time for one beer, Okell's Bitter, which was OK.
9 Sep 2009 11:21
The Porter and Sorter, Croydon
Found the pub surprisingly quiet for a Saturday evening. Beer in good condition and no problems with short measures or staff, who seemed friendly. Maybe note has been taken of previous posts.
15 Jun 2009 10:45
The Porter and Sorter, Croydon
Found the pub surprisingly quiet for a Saturday evening. Beer in good condition and no problems with short measures or staff, who seemed friendly. Maybe note has been taken of previous posts.
15 Jun 2009 10:45
This pub is definitely on the "up". there were five beers available on Saturday including Moorhouse's Blond Witch, a rarity in these parts. The pub was very busy as the England football match was on the TV but I was served very quickly and whilst the pub was noisy, in no way was it threatening. The pub is on the local CAMRA Ale Trail this year for the first time.
8 Jun 2009 16:16
The lovely pub building has been spoilt a little by the rather dark interior refurbishment. There is a choice of three real beers, plus a real cider, all reasonably priced. The food is a bit on the expensive side, but I didn't go there for the food. It's great that there is still a thriving pub in such a small village.
8 Jun 2009 16:13
After the improvement in beer range, things seem to have slipped again. It also seems there is quite often no real cider or perry, despite a successful cider festival a month or so ago. I have heard reports that the pub has been put up for sale.
29 May 2009 13:50
The pub has been sold and is currently closed pending a refit. Rumour has it, it's going up-market. Whether the beer will be any good, we shall have to wait and see, but surely it can't be any worse than it was.
11 May 2009 13:10
Very pleasant back-street local. Courage Best, Landlord and Cottage Somerset & Dorset Ale were on when I visited. Staff and locals seemed friendly. Wish I could have stayed longer but was on my way to see a play. Definitely worth seeking out.
11 May 2009 13:07
In reply to Maidenman, the previous owner was the Swindon and Berwick Rangers fan (and Lewes FC too). The new owner was so keen not to make discernable changes to the pub that he asked that the football memorabilia was left in place, along with the many Archer's pumpclips, now alas only a reminder of this once excellent little brewery.
8 May 2009 11:29
This pub now has a much improved beer range with Dark Star beers alongside the Harvey's Best. A real draught cider and perry is usually available too. I understand there is to be a cider festival at the end of March.
5 Mar 2009 13:28
Pleasant enough pub, but the beer range is rather uninspiring. I wouldn't make a special journey to go there again but, if close by, would pop in for a pint.
16 Feb 2009 16:27
I suspect the reason it is not in the latest Good Beer Guide is that, at the time of surveying (Feb/March), it was known that Bill and Shirley were leaving and nobody could have predicted at that time, how the new people would fare. Fortunately they are doing very well and I am sure it will be back in the Guide next time round.
21 Nov 2008 14:32
This pub has improved greatly since my last visit. It seems to have a very good landlord at last and he and his staff (possibly family) were very welcoming. The beer (Best, Old and Armada) was in excellent condition. Will happily give a higher rating. I wish the bus service was a bit more frequent though!
21 Nov 2008 14:27
This pub is open again, but I haven't tried it. It looks much the same as before.
3 Nov 2008 12:40
With Harvey's at �2.20 and Greene King IPA at �1.99 a pint, this must be one of the cheapest pubs in the area. However, the beer quality (I only tried the Harvey's) was only average
22 Sep 2008 10:38
This is a pleasant village pub. Only two of the Harvey's great range were available, but both were in good condition (Best and Olympia).
5 Sep 2008 11:29
The Horns Lodge, South Chailey
How refreshing to see a pub owner admit as much instead of pretending to be a customer and writing a rave review. Congratulations on your new venture and I wish you every success. The guest ale last night was Red Squirrel IPA and very nice it was too. The list of beers coming soon looks interesting. Very friendly atmosphere. I will return, as I am sure many of my CAMRA colleagues will too. What a pity there is no evening bus service.
5 Sep 2008 11:22
The Duke Of Wellington, Shoreham by Sea
I sense an improvement here in both ambience and staff. It would be difficult to improve the beer as the Dark Star offerings are already top notch. I will up my rating accordingly!
3 Sep 2008 15:49
Did I really visit the same pub as "kazzaren"? A pub lives or dies by how it serves its locals. It was also very welcoming to us three strangers. The staff certainly weren't rude and I can't say I noticed any odd smells. Sounds like someone has a grudge. The Dark Star Best Bitter was excellent too. It was also a nice cool refuge on one of the few hot days of the summer.
3 Sep 2008 15:41
Yes, from 27th August. The people from the Basketmakers in Brighton are running it. Harvey's Best has been retained but the draught Black Rat cider has not. Weston's Organic cider is available in bottles. Chiswick, Pride, ESB and HSB seem to be the regulars alongside the Harvey's. We wait to see whether they will have the Harvey's Old when it becomes available in October. Many regulars will hope they do.
3 Sep 2008 15:15
The Pig and Butcher, Five Ash Down
The pub has indeed been renamed and the new sign arrived last week. To celebrate they were having a hog roast on Saturday. Three Harveys beers were available, Hadlow IPA, Sussex Best and Olympia. Prices still very reasonable for the area.
26 Aug 2008 11:22
The Dripping Spring, St Leonards on Sea
Well MankyBadger, it's had it's lick of paint! It must have had it the day before I went, as the smell was a bit off-putting. That apart, the pub seems much as it was in the "old days" - it's over two years since my previous visit. It may or may not be a "rough part of town", but the locals and staff in there on Sunday afternoon were friendly enough. Good selection of ales of which the Moorhouse's Pride of Pendle was in particularly fine fettle.
26 Aug 2008 11:17
I'm with the majority on this one. Nobody who has read the reviews could be in any doubt what to expect so, if you don't like this sort of pub, don't go there. On the other hand, if you like good beer, old-fashioned entertainment, conversation and a generally cosy feeling, then this is the pub for you. If agc2070 can really do the walk from the station in 10 minutes, he/she must be very fit!!
26 Aug 2008 11:12
Worth the trek or bus ride from the city centre and a useful stopping off point on the way tyo or from the football ground. An excellent choice of ales along with real cider and perry. Yes it's a bit plain, especially from the outside, but I can't say that bothers me. The pub seems to work well as it is so, if it ain't broke, don't mend it.
11 Aug 2008 13:11
This was my first visit to the White Horse and what a pleasant surprise. Very handy for the football ground and fortunately a downhill roll! Sarah Hughes Ruby Mild on gravity - it doesn't get much better than this!
11 Aug 2008 13:07
Easily my favourite Bath pub and it would definitely be in my national top 10. How good Bass can taste when kept well and served on gravity. The Abbey Ales seasonal Steeplejack was top rate. This pub is not just about the beer though. It's a lovely building and the ambience is tremendous.
11 Aug 2008 13:03
Excellent pub with some rare beers, too many for the short time I had available! Will have to return sometime soon. The food menu looked interesting and I have heard good reports about the quality. Possibly my second favourite Bath pub after the Star.
11 Aug 2008 12:55
The beer is good and varied, although a tad expensive compared to other pubs in Bath. There is something about the atmosphere which puts me off slightly, although I can never quite put my finger on what it is that is wrong.
11 Aug 2008 12:52
Yes, the other two would almost certainly have been GK IPA and Abbot. Harvey's Tom Paine has been available during July and Harvey's Mild is on more often than not. The pub now has some very good staff and most of the former regulars have returned. The rating is gradualy rising and hopefully will continue to do so.
29 Jul 2008 15:14
The Beaufort Arms, Hawkesbury Upton
Couldn't agree more with the previous reviews. There are some interesting signs on the walls inside and an old-fashioned AA sign outside. Yes, it looks a bit shabby on the outside but don't be put off. The beer was excellent and, although the barmaid who served us was a bit sullen, the landlord was a very cheerful soul.
29 Jul 2008 12:47
The Falcon Hotel, Wotton-under-Edge
On Saturday last I found the pub closed and up for sale.
29 Jul 2008 12:40
I have been here before but it was a long time ago, but on Saturday I found the place very welcoming. The full range of food was not available as the usual kitchen staff (including presumably the landlord) were at a wedding. However, the baguette I had was extremely well-filled and tasty as was the generous portion of salad. The beers were excellent too, especially the Goff's Jouster. The staff were all extremely pleasant. All this and a beautiful day made the place quite idyllic.
29 Jul 2008 12:39
Quite simply superb. Certainly no sign of boring old f***s at the bar. The beer range was interesting and the quality excellent. People of Dursley, count yourselves lucky to have this gem in your midst. It seems "Old Ric" died recently, so condolences to all concerned with the pub and his family. Hopefully the current landlord will keep the pub just as it is as a fitting memorial.
29 Jul 2008 12:29
Word is that the "twits" have gone to the Crown. You need a pub like this in a town so that they have got somewhere to go. For that reason, I hope it reopens. Better still, it could reopen as a decent pub! Once converted to a restaurant or offices or flats, you have lost it for ever.
24 Jul 2008 16:06
The Land of Liberty, Peace and Plenty, Heronsgate
An absolute gem. Go there soon and you'll realise why it's won so many awards. Can't believe it's got such a low rating.
24 Jul 2008 15:59
Please DON'T replace the furnishings. We love the place just as it is, thanks!
22 Jul 2008 12:57
Re petergoesrock's comment, it is not a Harvey's pub, it is a free house which sells Harvey's. It more often than not has Fuller's London Pride as well, which you would never find in a Harvey's pub!
15 Jul 2008 14:56
It certainly has a better ambience since the makeover and I have heard good reports of the food, but the beer.... There are plenty of people in Lewes who could teach you how to keep your beer properly. It must be difficult to make a fine beer like Harvey's Best taste so bland, but you succeed!
1 Jul 2008 11:38
When you read a review like JustinForaquietpint's amongst all the other glowing ones, you wonder whether everyone's talking about the same pub. The vast majority can't be wrong. Olympia is not to everyone's taste, mine included, but that doesn't mean the pint is off. I have never had a bad pint in this pub.
26 Jun 2008 14:27
The Benjamin Satchwell, Leamington Spa
Yes, it's a fairly typical 'spoons pub, but slightly above average. There were several guest beers on tap and all were acceptable. The food was the usual fare, but it was served quickly and by friendly staff.
13 May 2008 17:05
I was staying in Leamington a few weeks ago and read in the local paper that it might close, so I paid it a visit. Well two visits actually because it was a great little boozer with decent beer. The beer was better here than in the only GBG-listed pub in the town. It was also very handy for my B&B. Hope you Leamingtonians manage to save it.
13 May 2008 16:58
Veggie food does not have to be unsatisfying. It makes a pleasant change to go meatless, provided it is good. I have not eaten here recently, but what I saw being served to other customers looked very good. I was there for the beer and the Harvey's Best and Adnam's Broadside were both fine. The atmosphere in this pub is always good and, as others have said, it's a bit different even for Lewes, and that's not such a bad thing.
13 May 2008 15:27
You don't need to have food at a pub to judge whether it is a good pub or not. The beer, which is what I go to a pub for first and foremost, is always excellent. However, if you go back on a normal day, you will find good, basic pub food at a reasonable price. As for Glynde being a well-off village, think again. There may be some wealthy souls around, but there are plenty of "ordinary" folk too. Look at the old workmen's cottages opposite the pub for a start.
9 Apr 2008 13:57
The new landladies are now in charge but, don't worry, this pub and its beer, cider and perry are as good as ever. Food seems to be more widely available, though apparently they don't do it if they're too busy. The Dark Star "Old" was wonderful.
7 Apr 2008 14:41
Only one real ale available ("King & Barnes" Sussex) but in excellent condition. A very welcoming locals pub, unlike the White Horse at Maplehurst nearby.
7 Apr 2008 14:37
Beer 10/10. Food OK but nothing special. Message to the landlord/staff. In an area virtually devoid of public transport, you should be more welcoming to walkers.
7 Apr 2008 14:35
It's worth a visit just to see the building, but don't plan on getting a decent pint of ale. Not sure how it gets its "dodgy" reputation. It seemed remarkably quiet on the Thursday night I visited.
18 Mar 2008 12:03
Word has it that the present landlord is retiring at the end of April. His will be a hard act to follow.
18 Mar 2008 11:47
The Pig and Butcher, Five Ash Down
This pub is now owned by Harveys's. The beer was in excellent condition when I visited recently. It is likely that the pub will soon revert to its old name of The Pig & Butcher.
5 Mar 2008 11:55
The Brickmakers Arms, Ridgewood
You could easily not know this pub existed as it is hidden away on a back street between the Eastbourne and Lewes roads through Ridgewood. It's definitely worth finding. Although the range of ales is limited, only Badger Bitter and Tanglefoot, it is well kept. I have visited in the evening when it was very busy and on a Sunday lunchtime when it was fairly quiet, but on both occasions the place seemed friendly and the service was good.
5 Mar 2008 11:52
THis is a Shepherd Neame tied house. When I visited (Sat lunchtime) the place was empty and the beer was bland. Some of the furnishings are far too modern and do not complement the building.
5 Mar 2008 11:46
The Lewes Arms Dramatic Society (LADS) is presenting its annual adult pantomime from 3rd to 8th March. Back at the pub after being "on tour" last year, this production of Cinderella has the usual mix of men dressed as women, women dressed as men (no animals this year), innuendo, not very well-disguised double entendres and rude jokes. This show is definitely not for children, the faint-hearted or the politically correct. Come and support our charity, have a good laugh and enjoy some good beer.
28 Feb 2008 09:18
I revisited this place yesterday in the vain hope that it might have improved. Now there is no real ale at all (whatever happened to customer choice?) and the staff seem even more disinterested than ever. Trouble is, there is no other pub nearby, let alone a decent one.
2 Jan 2008 13:49
The Rose Hill Tavern, Brighton
This is a pleasant little back street pub. Unfortunately the beer quality is not the best.
28 Dec 2007 11:03
Surprisingly this pub is part of a chain ("Pleisure") though to all intents and purposes it seems like a genuine free house. Excellent beer and home-made food and very pleasant staff. I understand it gets very crowded between about 5 and 8 in the evening. Fortunately, being in the week after Christmas it was less so on this occasion.
28 Dec 2007 10:55
My first ever visit to Mansfield was for the FA Cup game against Lewes. This pub stood out from the four entries in the Good Beer Guide and lived up to its billing. Very friendly, good beer and exceptionally good value pub grub - mushy peas and all! Quite a contrast in atmosphere to the football ground, where the staff, especially the stewards, must be the most miserable in the country.
14 Nov 2007 12:26
The Castle Rock Sherwood Oak was excellent. There was a good selection of foreign beers to complement the six real ales. If I could have found somewhere to sit, I might have tried the food, which looked good.
14 Nov 2007 12:20
From the outside this doesn't look promising but go inside and you'll find an excellent pub. It actually looks older inside than it actually is. There's a quiet bar on the left and a TV screen in the righthand bar. The Bateman's Salem Porter was delicious.
14 Nov 2007 12:17
I did not know about the change of hands and refurbishment when I visited last Saturday, although I had wondered why it wasn't in the new Good Beer Guide. Although the refurb has spoilt it a bit, it could have been so much worse. I only had time to try one of the 8 real ales on offer and this was excellent. The staff and customers were very friendly.
14 Nov 2007 12:12
This is definitely one of the better Wetherspoon's. There were 8 real ales on when I visited recently, the Otter and a Stout from B&T being exceptionally good. There's a better atmosphere here too than in many 'spoons pubs. Maybe that's something to do with the area.
2 Nov 2007 11:01
Currently closed for refurbishment. It is intended to be a classy eating and drinking establishment when reopened. We shall see!!
23 Oct 2007 13:50
Not a very inspiring beer range when I visited. That said, the pint of Bombardier was better than I expected. I actually like to go to the bar to get drinks. The waitresses seemed to think that was odd. As for the future plans, a 300 seater heated beer garden is not exactly good news for the environment!
23 Oct 2007 13:40
Idiots like anonymous are ruining the site for everyone. You must know who he is, as he must have registered to be able to post. Please do something about it.
21 Sep 2007 14:17
The beer is excellent, especially the Milton Sparta which was on last night. The food is pretty good too. However the place has no character, it's a barn of a place and the echo effect makes conversation difficult. The ambience yesterday evening was not helped by the presence of a family with screaming brats and a couple having a domestic dispute. Fair do's, the latter were asked to leave, but the noisy kids stayed. As it is somewhat out of my way, I would not make a special effort to visit again but, if in the area, might give it a second chance.
21 Sep 2007 14:08
The original part of the building (the bar area) is lovely, the rest of pub not so. The menu does indeed look very interesting but I have only drunk here. The beer is always in very good condition. There is real cider too.
7 Aug 2007 10:21
Agree about the refurbishment - horrible. At least there was a non-Greene King beer to try. St. Austell Tribute - excellent. You can get to the pub easily by bus, the 29 runs from Brighton and Lewes and from Tunbridge Wells and Uckfield. Beware, the timetable will change in September and it will only run hourly through Isfield village. Unfortunately there are no late evening buses.
7 Aug 2007 10:16
Indeed an excellent pub with excellent beer and no, it doesn't need a makeover. If it ain't broke, don't mend it!
31 Jul 2007 15:33
Pleasant pub, but very quiet on a Friday evening. Good for a quiet drink and a meal but not good trade for the landlord. Not a huge menu but good quality. The beer was Courage Best, Bath Gem and Butcombe Gold.
31 Jul 2007 15:31
The pub is recovering well from the boycott, but is still not as good as it was before. It has attracted new clientele, not all of whom are particularly desirable and, for this or other reasons, many of the former regulars have either not returned or don't visit as often as they did. On the plus side, the range of beer is interesting with at least one guest beer (in addition to the Harvey's) at most times. I haven't seen a GK IPA pump on for some time, though Abbot remains! The rating will gradually increase as people revisit, but these things don't happen overnight.
16 Jul 2007 11:32
The Watermill Inn, Burgess Hill
Visited this pub again yesterday to get this year's Ale Trail stamp. The Goddard's beer was excellent. The pub itself seemed very quiet for a Sunday lunchtime.
16 Jul 2007 11:16
Has improved since my visit last year. Four reals ales available. The Gale's (Fuller's) HSB and the Harvey's Best were very good.
16 Jul 2007 11:12
I was disappointed to find only the Sussex Best available. On previous visits there was a better choice. However, no complaints about the quality of the beer or the friendliness of the pub.
9 Jul 2007 10:27
This pub has benefitted from a recent redecoration, which has not spoilt its features. Three Harvey's beers were available on my visit, the Sussex Best being very good. The food was also excellent. On the whole, much better than on my previous visit of about 18 months ago.
9 Jul 2007 10:24
The Prince Albert (Rose's), Woolwich
I am told the lease is expiring in the not too distant future and, with the area up for redevelopment, the current hosts have decided to retire from the trade. This is a great shame. Make the most of the pub while you can.
21 Jun 2007 15:39
This pub looks better on the outside than the inside. It's a bit gloomy but the staff and locals seem friendly enough. The beer I had was indifferent, but I suspect it was the particular beer that was the problem, not the way it was kept. Will try it again some time and maybe the list of beers on the blackboard outside will correspond with what is actually on!
19 Jun 2007 09:50
The Nell Gwynne, Covent Garden
A gem of a pub amongst the bland places which proliferate in central London these days. If it survives, perhaps a more interesting beer choice would be welcome. The Courage Best was perfectly drinkable but tasted not much more than coloured water. The Sky Sports News on the TV looked very out-of-place but the sound was turned down and loud music was the order of the day.
Yes, a good pub, but it could be better. The most important thing though at the moment is to ensure its survival.
6 Jun 2007 12:16
Please reinstate the review by "dirtydreamer", otherwise nobody will know what I was going on about in mine! There was nothing offensive about it. Reviews seem to be removed at the drop of a hat these days.
4 Jun 2007 10:10
An unspoilt back street local serving excellent Harvey's beers. Everyone seemed friendly on my most recent visit. The pub has at long last made it onto the local CAMRA Ale Trail, so look to see if it makes the next Good Beer Guide. It will be none too soon if it does.
4 Jun 2007 10:00
The first time visitor might have a job finding it and there are steep hills to climb, but it's definitely worth the effort. Five real ales to choose from, Fuller's Discovery, London Pride, Gale's Butser and HSB and a genuine guest beer, Thwaite's Lancaster Bomber. The Gale's HSB has survived the move to Chiswick very well and the pint served here was excellent. The only thing that might put me off is that the pub describes itself as child-friendly. Fortunately on this visit they were all out in the garden, so the pub was quiet and relaxing.
4 Jun 2007 09:54
Reasonable selection of ales and comfortably furnished. Not entirely convinced the barman knew how to pull a pint properly, but it tasted OK. Extra point for the beautiful cat!
30 May 2007 11:58
This was a pleasant surprise, considering the only other review and my preconceptions of Newhaven in general! I cannot comment on the upstairs rooms and I did not notice any porn on the bar. There was a choice of three real ales and the one I chose, from the Hammerpot brewery, was very good. The Thursday night crowd seemed decent enough too.
30 May 2007 11:54
The staff were extremely pleasant and the old tabby cat and the black dog were very friendly too. Beer in excellent condition and there was an an interesting choice. If you're heading back for "The Cross" to catch your bus, unless you're super-fit, leave plenty of time - it's quite a climb!
18 May 2007 11:31
Depending on the time of day (and day of the week) this place is either empty and soulless or full of noise and kids. Changing the menu won't change the sort of people who go there on a Friday night. As for the beer, it's Greene King. Enough said.
15 May 2007 09:13
Well, the rehabilitation of this pub has started, but it will take time. Last night, the first with Harvey's back on sale, was lively but there were a lot of people there who I didn't know and a lot of people I know as regulars were not there, if you catch my drift.
27 Apr 2007 13:48
The Crystal Palace, Tunbridge Wells
According to Harvey's website, this pub is closed indefinitely.
24 Apr 2007 10:10
And they will be allowed to sell seasonal Harvey's beers as well as the Best Bitter. Quite a change of heart from GK.
23 Apr 2007 12:58
Notice in window shows it only opens at lunchtime on Saturdays when there is rugby being played. Fortunately there was, so was able to sample this very good pub. It is the current local CAMRA pub of the year. Judged purely on only one visit to each pub, I would say the Wellington Arms would be more deserving of this title.
23 Apr 2007 12:55
There was only one Potton beer available and it tasted awful. The pub itself was awful too. Even though it was before midday, virtually all the tables were full of uncollected empty glasses, plates and general tat.
23 Apr 2007 12:50
Paid another visit last weekend and again found the pub welcoming. The Three Threads was particularly good. The fine weather allowed us to sit in the very pleasant garden. Even the presence of some local Tory canvassers having their lunch break didn't spoil the atmosphere. The very friendly pub dog would be better company though!
20 Apr 2007 15:56
Quite why it's been so long since my last visit I don't know, as this pub is (sort of) on my way home from work. It's definitely worth the slight diversion. Anyway last night it was as good as ever, if not better. An excellent varied choice of beer and a superb cheese sandwedge. The staff were frendly and seemed genuinely pleased you are there. This shouldn't need commenting on, but in so many pubs these days it is not the case.
20 Apr 2007 15:49
The Cork and Cheese Ale House, Southend on Sea
A local contact tells me that it has indeed closed recently. A great shame as it was by far the best real ale pub for miles around. Fortunately I don't live in the area anymore, in fact I had my farewell bash in this pub.
19 Apr 2007 11:58
This has recently been named as the local CAMRA Pub of the Year for 2007. Congratulations one and all - well deserved.
4 Apr 2007 14:43
The New Cross Turnpike, Welling
Well, Old Tom, at least if the sign shows the beer is too cold, as it usually is in Wetherspoon's, you will know about it before buying one! I'm not a great fan of "Spoon's" pubs these days (they were much better a few years back) but this is one of the better ones. It's undoubtedly the best pub in Welling, but that probably says more about the other pubs than it does about this one.
4 Apr 2007 13:10
You could also try the Trevor Arms at Glynde which is nearby. See reviews.
28 Feb 2007 12:43
I hadn't been here since Harvey's sold it several years ago. It is now a free house with Harveys Best as a regular and two guests, often from Archer's and WJ King. An interesting mix of clientele makes this a pleasant place to visit, unlike most of the other pubs in the town. Perhaps its relatively isolated location on the north side of town keeps the riff raff away, or maybe the landlord and the regulars won't tolerate them. Either way, that's a big advantage.
12 Feb 2007 12:13
The Robin Hood and Little John, Bexleyheath
I used to always drink the Harvey's here until I moved to Lewes, so now don't need to get my "fix" as I have it on my doorstep (well, almost!). Now on my occasional visits I can try the other beers they have on offer and there is always a good selection. Last Saturday I had Westerham Black Eagle, which was very good. So too was the Brain's Rev James. The food is always good here too. As others have already said, this is a gem in an area generally devoid of decent pubs.
12 Feb 2007 12:08
I can only assume that the people who rave about this pub either don't drink real ale or don't care whether it's any good. There appears to only be Harvey's Best, which shouldn't be a problem as it's a brilliant beer, but I'm afraid the pint I had on Friday was nothing like as good as it should have been. There are plenty of better places to drink in Lewes.
29 Jan 2007 15:13
The beer was quite good. A rather odd sort of place, can't quite put my finger on the reason. Some of my group ordered food and they said it was fine. Service at the bar was abysmally slow.
9 Jan 2007 15:01
The Battle of Trafalgar, Brighton
The layout of the tables can make the place seem a bit cramped, but on the whole a pleasnt experience. Of the four real ales available, I tried the Harvey's Best and Adnam's Broadside and both were very good. As already stated, it's very handy for the station and there's a great little chippy between the pub and station which must have the cheapest prices around.
9 Jan 2007 10:22
Even if I wanted to drink Greene King beer, which I don't, there's no point in going in this pub anymore because you'd be on your own talking to the furniture. Well done all the suits in Bury St. Edminds - you really know how to kill a pub off. Why don't you all pack your bags and sell this pub to somebody who knows, and will take notice of, what the customers want?
2 Jan 2007 16:12
This pub is now closed and is to be converted into flats, I believe. Never a favourite of mine, it is a shame to see it close as it is the only pub in the village. The Rainbow is a mile away on the road north and is more of a restaurant than a pub.
28 Dec 2006 11:39
I have heard this pub is to close early in the new year to become yet another Italian restaurant. I would have thought Lewes had enough of those already. Although not one of my favourite pubs, it's a shame to see a pub close.
28 Dec 2006 11:37
There is very little I can add to the previous reviews. This is quite simply a lovely place. For those without cars it is a 20 minute walk from the station and there are buses to Berwick Crossroads. It's well worth the effort of finding it.
13 Dec 2006 10:47
The Harvey's has definitely gone now and so, it would seem, have most of the regulars.
13 Dec 2006 10:37
There has been a temporary reprieve, but the last day of Harvey's is now Friday 8th December, unless there is a miraculous last-minute about-turn by Greene King. Can't see that happening somehow.
4 Dec 2006 14:11
The Nelson and Railway, Kimberley
I visited this pub again on Saturday before going on the last ever tour of the Hardy & Hanson's brewery. The food was much better this time (chicken curry recommended) and they dealt very efficiently with our large party. The Gunpowder Plot was the pick of the beers. Not a Greene King pump clip in sight, but that, alas, will soon change!!
4 Dec 2006 14:05
Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem, Nottingham
I visited this pub for the first time on Saturday. I was there early so it wasn't crowded and was able to have a good look round. Good range of beers, but GK IPA has already made an appearance. With the imminent closure of the Hardy & Hanson's brewery, the beer choice will probably become worse. It is quite scandalous that such a gem of a pub should come into the ownership of such an uncaring organisation as Greene King. Hope the locals can somehow keep it as it is.
4 Dec 2006 13:58
The Sussex Coaster, Peacehaven
The first thing I noticed as I was about to enter was a notice in the window. This was a list of about two dozen people who were barred from the pub. This must say something about the area, if not the pub. Once inside, it seemed very quiet for a Thursday evening. The lady behind the bar was friendly enough, if a little odd, but the general feeling of the place was unwelcoming. We had been warned this was a rough pub and I would imagine on a Friday or Saturday night it could well be. The only real ale available was Fuller's London Pride, which seemed very tired. Another handpump had the clip turned round. I understand Harvey's Best is usually available. This pub is not recommended.
10 Nov 2006 13:04
Telscombe Tavern, Telscombe Cliffs
Almost certainly this is the only place worth stopping off for on the road between Rottingdean and Newhaven. It appears to be a genuine free house and the beer was in good condition (Adnam's Broadside, Harvey's Best and GK Abbot). The food menu looked very good. Decor not outstanding, but not bad either. Comfortable enough. Seemed to have a good wine selection if that's your thing.
10 Nov 2006 10:22
A group of us went here last night. It was not at all like dirtydreamer's description. In fact it was a rather boring place and would certainly have been enlivened if it had been as he found it. It seemed to be doing a good trade in food, which didn't exactly look haute-cuisine, but that's probably not what the folk of Saltdean want. Adnam's Best was the only ale on offer and it was just on the poor side of average. We weren't tempted by the 2 for 1 offer on Carling. Not a place to go out of your way for.
10 Nov 2006 10:17
The Pig and Butcher, Five Ash Down
The only unpleasant (to the eye) part of the pub is the restaurant area and you can eat in the pub proper if you want to. Excellent locals pub with good beer and cider. The Tunbridge Wells to Brighton bus stops outside which means you don't need to drive, unless you want to go in the late evening. Prices very reasonable. If they can do it, why do other "country" pubs charge such high prices?
9 Nov 2006 14:47
You would be lifeless and soulless if you lived in Uckfield! Not the most attractive town in Sussex, there is very little to go there for. The Alma is probably the only reason. It can be a bit quiet, but the beer and food are always very good.
9 Nov 2006 14:43
The Crystal Palace, Tunbridge Wells
There is a notice on the wall saying "Badly behaved children will be asked to take their parents to another pub" or words to that effect. Nice idea!! Not however one of Harvey's best pubs, but far from the worst either. The Old Ale was good, although I have tasted it better. The young barman was friendly (and not smoking!) and the place seemed welcoming enough. Tunbridge Wells is not blessed with too many good pubs, but this one is better than most.
9 Nov 2006 14:38
The battle is not yet won. The Argus interpretation of what they said is, alas, not correct. All GK have said is that they have not ruled out having Harvey's as an occasional guest beer.
8 Nov 2006 14:06
I'm afraid the beer is not of a consistent quality and this is undoubtedly the reason for it not being included in the 2007 GBG. It can be very good, but even the Best straight from the barrel can sometimes be a bit iffy. As this is effectively the brewery tap this is surprising and one would hope that Harvey's could do something to rectify it. You will usually get a better pint of the Best and Old in the Gardener's Arms just along the road and that is a free house. The range is also very variable. All this is a shame as it's a nice pub with a nice atmosphere.
30 Oct 2006 16:17
"Arms" has been dropped from the name since the refurbishment and, my goodness, has it been refurbished!! One hardly recognises the place, from whichever entrance you approach it. That said, the range of beer is excellent, there were six different Harvey's beers available last Friday, the Old being in top condition. I certainly wouldn't describe the place as common, certainly not at lunchtime. The food prices would keep some people away and the prices for accommodation seem very high.
30 Oct 2006 16:06
This is a delightful pub. Yes, difficult to get to without a car, but I managed it. The Saturday lunchtime bus gives you about 40 minutes there. Not enough really but maybe, in the brave new world of green taxes and people using cars less, there will be an improved bus service. Or perhaps I've been drinking too much Harvey's Old and floated off into cloud cuckoo land! Yes, the Harvey's Old here was excellent. Best, Armada and Hadlow IPA was also available. Top marks.
30 Oct 2006 15:52
Brecknock Arms, Bells Yew Green
The Harvey's Old Ale was in excellent condition. Best was also available. On previous visits the atmosphere has been a bit frosty, but this time it was very welcoming. I suppose it just depends who's in!
30 Oct 2006 15:45
This has the potential to be a really good pub but I don't think my friends and I will be going back in a hurry due to the poor quality of the beer. Two of the three beers tried were almost undrinkable. Despite Wandsworth Bill's comment, perhaps they should concentrate on keeping one (or maybe two at busy times) beer on in good condition.
25 Sep 2006 11:39
Beware!! It is strongly rumoured down here in Lewes that Greene King are trying to remove Harvey's from the six remaining former Beard's pubs which they own. This, the Lewes Arms and the Red Lion in Bromley are three of them - I don't know which the other three are. We have a petition going in the Lewes Arms. If one of these pubs is your local and you want Harvey's to remain, you may wish to do the same.
25 Sep 2006 11:33
Beware!! It is strongly rumoured down here in Lewes that Greene King are trying to remove Harvey's from the six remaining former Beard's pubs which they own. This, the Wellington in Seaford and the Red Lion in Bromley are three of them - I don't know which the other three are. There has been a petition going in the Lewes Arms. If one of these pubs is your local and you want Harvey's to remain, you may wish to do the same.
25 Sep 2006 11:30
This is an excellent pub and the landlord is to be congratulated on keeping his guest ales. However, beware!! It is strongly rumoured down here in Lewes that Greene King are trying to remove Harvey's from the six remaining former Beard's pubs which they own. This, the Lewes Arms and the Wellington in Seaford are three of them - I don't know which the other three are. We have a petition going in the Lewes Arms. If one of these pubs is your local and you want Harvey's to remain, you may wish to do the same.
25 Sep 2006 11:28
I have always found the staff in this pub pleasant and welcoming, so "anonymous" must have caught them on a bad day. This is one of the better pubs in Lewes, though by no means the best. The front bar can sometimes seem a little quiet and lacking in atmosphere. However, when live football is on in the back bar it gets quite lively, though never threatening, and it's wonderful to be able to watch sport in a pub which serves decent beer.
25 Sep 2006 11:18
Turning away somebody in underwear (i.e. a vest) does not seem unreasonable.
21 Sep 2006 11:53
The "own brew beer" is almost certainly a beer from the Greene King portfolio rebadged for this pub, but I do not know which one. It is rumoured that the Harvey's in this pub (and other former Beard's pubs) is under threat again. Greene King should realise that if they can't get Harvey's here, many people will go elsewhere to get it. Not only is it damn good beer, local people are fiercely loyal to their home-town brewery.
21 Sep 2006 11:43
This was probably my second favourite pub in Brighton and as far as ambience and appearance is concerned it still is. It is now part of the Fuller's empire and on my most recent visit, the only former Gales beer available was HSB, which was not up to its usual standard. Maybe I was unlucky. London Pride and Chiswick appear to be the other regular beers with Fuller's own Discovery masquerading as a guest beer.
20 Sep 2006 09:39
This is a lovely little pub and the beer has improved considerably since my last visit. It claims to be the smallest pub in Brighton (which it may well be) and the best. Good though it is, it's not the best. For me the Lord Nelson wins that prize by a mile.
20 Sep 2006 09:33
The best thing about this pub is the food and there lies the problem. The best thing about a pub should be its beer quality or its ambience (or preferably both). The clientele is an odd mix but, contrary to other reviewers, I found the staff friendly enough and on my most recent visit at least the music wasn't as noisy as on previous occasions. Unfortunately the beer is pretty bland stuff and expensive too (unlike the food which is good quality and value). The place is worth a visit, especially if you are hungry, but I don't think it deserves its place in the Good Beer Guide.
20 Sep 2006 09:30
I like this pub. I have heard reports that the beer isn't always in good condition, but it has always been OK when I've visited. Last night there was Harvey's Best and Taylor Landlord. The Harvey's was good. Nice quiet backstreet location and a friendly welcome.
20 Sep 2006 09:22
I like the downstairs bar but have not tried the restaurant. Unfortunately on my last visit the beer was not in particularly good condition.
20 Sep 2006 09:19
Maybe I was spoilt by having just been in the White Horse, but I did not like this pub. The Taylor Landlord was OK, I suppose, and there were three other handpumps, but the atmosphere was weird. Seems to have been refurbished and the decor and furniture don't seem to go with the old building.
19 Sep 2006 17:01
Justifiably voted CAMRA's Country Pub of the Year, it ought to win the overall prize. It is quite simply a superb pub. The Mole's beer I had on Sunday was exquisite. 10/10. The Sandrock mentioned in one of the other posts appears to be closed.
19 Sep 2006 16:57
The beer range has been much reduced, however the pint of Harvey's I had was in good condition. Wouldn't go out of my way to visit this pub, but as long as it's on the CAMRA Ale trail, I will probably visit it once a year!
19 Sep 2006 16:55
The Watermill Inn, Burgess Hill
I'm afraid I always find this pub rather dreary. Whilst not hostile, I never feel the locals are particularly friendly. The beer quality can be variable too. The Red River I had a few months ago was excellent, but the pint of 1648 Original I had on Sunday seemed a bit flat. Other people seem to like this pub, so give it a try, it may just be me!
19 Sep 2006 16:50
When I heard the Linden Tree was up for sale I feared that it would turn into wine bar or a bistro. Fortunately Dark Star took it over and it is a very good pub indeed. The Dark Star range is always excellent and there are usually two guest beers. On my last visit there were also three real ciders and a perry. The pub itself is very pleasant, much much more welcoming and comfortable than Dark Star's other two pubs.
19 Sep 2006 16:44
I'm not too keen on the coloured lighting effects, but otherwise it has survived the recent much-needed refurbishment pretty well unscathed. The beer was on fine form last night. Six different Harvey's beers were on tap, including the current seasonal Southdown Harvest, which was superb.
13 Sep 2006 12:02
Well it was open on Friday afternoon at 4 p.m.! The best pint of Black Sheep I've had in ages. Yes, the pub has its foibles, but it's none the worse for that. The fact that it is family hostile makes it worth the effort to find it open. It's so nice to be able to enjoy a pint in peace and quiet.
11 Sep 2006 17:01
The Horse and Groom, New Basford
Very good selection of beers and a nice ambience. Nice to see the Shipstone sign still on the outside and of course the old brewery building still stands next door. Too many dark beers? That makes a pleasant change!
6 Sep 2006 11:38
The Horse and Jockey, Old Basford
The beer is excellent, especially the Hemlock, but the pub itself is a bit down-market to say the least!
6 Sep 2006 11:35
The Nelson and Railway, Kimberley
Visit this pub for the beer and the friendly service, but eat elsewhere. The Friar's Fancy is an excellent brew. What will happen to it when Greene King get their grubby mitts on it?
6 Sep 2006 11:32
There were 8 real ales on and a real cider when I visited last Saturday. It was a bit quiet but it was only 11am. I imagine there would be a great atmosphere here when the place is busy. Recommended.
6 Sep 2006 11:28
Don't worry "swift", it won't be a Hardy & Hanson's pub for much longer, it will be owned by Greene King. Make the most of it while you can, it's an excellent pub with darned good beer.
6 Sep 2006 11:24
I thought the food was very good in both quality and quantity. Perhaps a little overpriced. Very pleasant and efficient staff. Yes it's definitely more of a restaurant than a pub, but there were three real ales available. The Harvey's Best and Taylor Landlord were in good condition. I did not try the other one, which was Summer Lightning. Can be reached by the Cuckmere Ramblers Bus at weekends.
29 Aug 2006 11:19
When negative reviews like Banner's appear about this pub, I wonder whether the reviewer is in the right pub! If you want comfy seats then, no, this place is not for you. It is a real pub for beer drinkers, which happens to do (very good) food. As for guest ales, Harvey's don't have guest ales (from other breweries) in their pubs, so I can only assume he/she means a seasonal ale. Some of these are of very high strength, hence the higher price. The prices of the regular ales are higher than average for most other Harvey's pubs, but not for London (even in a back street in Southwark). As far as the food is concerned, I have never seen a pie priced over �8. I have always found the food to be very good value, especially bearing in mind the quantity you get. As the vast majority of the reviews attest, this is a brilliant little pub.
8 Aug 2006 12:26
Better than on previous visits, but competition for the Stanley? No, I don't think so. Nice food and the Wolf Whistle beer was very good, but the place lacks the atmosphere and intimacy of the Stanley and there were far too many kids running round for my liking! They are having an "adults only" beer festival in November, so that might be a good time to visit again.
31 Jul 2006 16:26
Quite a surprise to find a pub with such interesting beer in this location. Very lively atmosphere at the time of my visit at 3pm on a Sunday. Friendly landlord.
31 Jul 2006 16:22
The Red Lion Inn, Shoreham by Sea
What a lovely old pub this is. An interesting selection of real ales and the nice atmosphere always make it worth the journey. It's a fair stomp from the station on foot, but the 2A bus stops right outside.
31 Jul 2006 16:16
The Duke Of Wellington, Shoreham by Sea
The beer is excellent, but what a strange pub. The decor is completely out of character with the building. Not sure how to describe it. Some good 60s music being played, but the place still lacked atmosphere. Service was a bit on the slow side. Dark Star always score 10/10 for their beers. It's a shame their pubs aren't as good.
31 Jul 2006 16:12
The Buckingham Arms, Shoreham by Sea
Had a very good pint of Grand Union Wheat Beer. 11 real ales in all, as usual, including a mild from Greene King, which you don't often find in GK's own pubs in the area!
31 Jul 2006 16:02
The Elephant and Castle, Lewes
Credit where credit's due, this pub is much improved. This is no doubt the result of great efforts made by the manager, Hugh. Black Sheep is a regular beer these days and is good, as is the Harvey's. Addlestone's real cider is currently available too. However, all that said, I wouldn't go on a Friday or Saturday night or when live sport is being shown if you want to have a conversation!
24 Jul 2006 13:41
Only regular Greene King fare plus Harvey's on offer on my last visit. There always used to be another guest beer. The atmosphere seems to have improved. There is a separate no smoking lounge.
14 Jul 2006 14:19
Yes, the staff are friendly, but the place lacks atmosphere. The music was not too loud on my last visit. WJ King Horsham Best Bitter was in good condition, but a tad expensive. Other people reckoned the other two real ales (Harvey's Best and Adnam's Broadside) were not at their best. Didn't try the food, but that which other people were having looked good.
14 Jul 2006 14:16
Not sure how the previous reviewer found Beard's ales as they stopped brewing many years ago! This pub is now part of the Greedy King empire, but I have always found it pleasant. Unfortunately on my last visit, the front bar was inhabited by the local racist club, or so it seemed, as they were moaning about foreigners in general and Poles in particular. I finished my beer (Belhaven Fruit Beer) as quickly as I could and left!
14 Jul 2006 14:11
Nice traditional local with beer in very good condition. Handy location for the station. It seemed very quiet for a Friday night, which is a bit worrying.
29 Jun 2006 15:42
The Crown and Anchor, Brighton
Three real ales were available at the time of my recent visit. The Harvey's was very good. Fairly busy but the no smoking bar at the rear was completely empty! Nice atmosphere.
29 Jun 2006 15:40
The Preston Brewery Tap, Brighton
I don't know what the decor used to be like, but it appears to have been "done up" and seems rather characterless. I tried the Harvey's which was very lively but, once it had settled, tasted OK. There were two other real ales available. I would pop in again if I was passing, but would not go out of my way.
29 Jun 2006 15:35
I discovered this pub on the WJ King Ale Trek. It seems nobody else has, as it's not on this site and not in the GBG! It had a good range of beers, Harvey's Best and Mild, WJ King Horsham Bitter and Hepworth's Summer Ale when I visited. Nice atmosphere and, in an area where restaurants masquerading as pubs abound, a real pub, albeit with a small dedicated eating area. Bar Billiards is played and, judging from the notices about local clubs and groups, a genuine local.
27 Jun 2006 14:56
The White Hart Hotel / O'Dwyer's Bar, Calne
I understand this pub is now closed. Never really liked it.
27 Jun 2006 14:41
Indeed this is a wonderful pub. The sign as you go in is a gem. I won't spoil it by telling you what it says. Always a friendly welcome and excellent beer. I haven't been on a music night, but am told it is good. The only drawback is the rather restricted opening hours but I always try and visit if I'm in the area.
27 Jun 2006 14:38
It used to close at weekends, but started opening Saturday 6pm to 11pm and Sunday 12am to 6pm. As far as I know this is still the case.
26 Jun 2006 14:16
It has all been said in the previous reviews. All I can do is agree. A perfect pub in all respects. Roll on next year's visit.
14 Jun 2006 12:57
Sorry, Mr. anonymous, how can you relax and enjoy a meal while kids run riot? Since your post, this pub has changed hands (again!), so hopefully the new landlord will stop the alarming downward spiral this pub has suffered over the past few years. On my last two visits the beer was far too cold and the atmosphere unwelcoming. I would rate it the worst pub in Harvey's estate. However, with the new landlord, surely things can only get better.
9 Jun 2006 12:14
The previous reviewer must have picked a bad day! I found this to be a very pleasant place and the Winter Warrant beer was excellent. The only reason I left when I did was because my bus was due!
6 Apr 2006 15:04
The Foresters Arms, East Hoathly
The refurbishment came as a bit of a shock, but it's still a pleasant enough pub. I'm not convinced the beer was in quite as good condition as under the previous landlord though.
6 Apr 2006 14:55
I'm not sure I'd describe this as a "cracking boozer", it's more a hotel bar than a pub. That said, it serves a good pint of Harvey's Best, so it's worth popping in if you're nearby.
6 Apr 2006 14:47
You don't often find a pub as good as this. The beers are always interesting from the smaller breweries. Not only are the landlord and staff friendly, so are the customers. I am not the most gregarious of people, but I always end up talking to someone in this pub.
31 Mar 2006 14:15
If I still lived in New Eltham this would be my local. Thank goodness I moved away many years ago. On my occasional visits this is, alas, the only pub in which to catch up with old friends. About two years ago it showed signs of improvement with a couple of interesting guest beers to supplement the Courage Best. Since then these have disappeared and on my last two visits in January the Courage Best ran out on Saturday lunchtime. The first time, it was back on for the evening but not the following week. When it was on it was far too cold. As for the atmosphere, it's dreadful. Even at lunchtime there was loud music blaring out, doing battle with the football on the TV. It's supposed to be Over 21s only, but this is clearly not enforced. Don't go unless desperate, it really is the pits, which is such a shame as the wonderful building and its location mean it has the potential to be a great pub, if only someone would take it over who cares.
8 Feb 2006 11:17
This must be one of the best Harvey's pubs and certainly the best pub in Redhill by a mile. Quite frankly the only good reason to get off the train in Redhill (unless you live there). All the beers tried by my group were in excellent condition, the Old Ale being outstanding. The landlord often has out-of-season beers on. Last night he had Tom Paine, which was perfect. How does he do it?
7 Feb 2006 13:04
The Rose and Crown, Tunbridge Wells
An excellent pub and certainly not just old men. Good choice of beers, the Young's Bitter was excellent. Nice atmosphere too. I don't know of a better pub in Tunbridge Wells. The Litten Tree (referred to by "anon" is closed, which can only be a very good thing!
10 Jan 2006 16:42
Excellent pub, which I have been visiting for the past 25 years and it still looks like the same pub, thank goodness. It has survived the recent change of landlord unscathed. The Fuller's beers taste very good, as of course they should but all too often don't. Considering the wealthy neighbourhood, the prices aren't that outrageous!
28 Dec 2005 13:15
Just across the road from Harvey's brewery, you will always find Harvey's Best (and quite often Old too) along with three or four guest beers from all over the country. You never know what to expect. A down-to-earth drinkers' pub with a friendly landlord who knows all there is to know about beer. Don't visit Lewes without popping in for a pint or four!
16 Dec 2005 13:36
A great favourite of mine, this pub excellent Harvey's beer and good, unpretentious food at a very reasonable price. It's also right by Glynde railway station, so you don't need a car. It's also good walking and cycling country. Highly recommended.
16 Nov 2005 15:26
This has got to be the worst pub in Lewes. I have only visited it once - never again. Unfriendly and poor quality beer. It must be really difficult to serve such a poor pint of Harvey's especially when it's brewed less than 200 yards away. I visited on Saturday lunchtime when it was fairly quiet but I undestand that, if you hear there's been trouble in a Lewes pub, it's a fair bet it's this one.
16 Nov 2005 15:23
This is the sort of pub you dream about having as your local. After many years of dreaming, it now is. Despite being a Greene King tied house, it still serves Harvey's Best although this winter there is, alas, no Old. Nice atmosphere (even in the front bar, aph - we don't bite, you know!). Come on a Sunday afternoon and you may well get press-ganged into one of the crazy competitions they occasionally hold, such as pea-throwing or paper aeroplanes. In July you can witness the ancient game of Dwyle Flunking. A real community pub.
16 Nov 2005 11:36
The Elephant and Castle, Lewes
This pub has found its way into the 2006 Good Beer Guide and I suppose it deserves it for the quality of the beer. However, it is not the place to go for a quiet drink or conversation, as loud music and/or the sport on the television ruin it, not to mention the clientele it attracts, particularly on Friday and Saturday nights. It is the nearest pub to my house, but the extra hundred yards or so to Lewes Arms is well worth it!
16 Nov 2005 11:25
This is one of my top ten pubs. Great ambience and great beer. On my most recent visit, there were six Harvey's draught beers available. You'd be hard-pressed to beat that. Avoid Tuesday evenings unless you enjoy quiz nights!
16 Nov 2005 11:18
The Basketmakers Arms, Brighton
Like virtually all the really good pubs in Brighton, this pub is too small for the number of people it attracts. That said, it is well worth visiting. It has a nice atmosphere and the beer is kept well.
16 Nov 2005 11:14
Yes, it's got great beer and yes, it's usually free of lager louts and other such oiks, but there is something about this pub that falls short of what I would call a great pub. Maybe it's because it's too small or too smoky, but I never feel entirely comfortable there (and I'm not referring to the hard seats!). Mind you, all of this doesn't stop me going because, as I said, it's got great beer. For a good session in Brighton though, I would always go for the Lord Nelson.
2 Nov 2005 16:36
The beer is always in excellent condition. In the unlikely event that it isn't, tell Frank the landlord and he will always change it immediately. The food is very good too, and extremely good value. Although I now live in Harvey's home town, I still visit this pub as often as I can. It is one of their best.
2 Nov 2005 11:20
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The Star Tavern, Belgravia
This is still a great pub but I wish they would stock one of Fuller's dark beers, even if it's Gales HSB which is only "half dark". Having said that, the London Pride was on very good form - far better than you find it in most free houses.
30 Dec 2010 10:03