The Brewers Arms, Heathfield

We tried this place after a shining review in the guest book of a cottage we rented nearby. Unfortunately, the management has recently changed and our experience was atrocious. The welcome we received was from a group of grumpy, dour faced local men with unruly dogs, all without leads blocking the entrance which now doubles as the smoking area. We had children with us and to be honest felt intimidated and surprised considering the aforementioned shining review. The landlord 'Gary' was about as friendly as the local 'bouncers' outside. The food was over priced (�12 Sunday roast!), poor quality& very slow to the table& came accompanied by one of the dogs which begged unabated throughout the meal. The garden area can only be described as a toilet for the loose dogs; overgrown, untidy, dirty and full of fecal matter, presumably canine.This was a true return to the bad old days and reminded me that not all country pubs have made the successful transition to decent eatery. For a true Sussex pub experience, try 'The Star', on the same road about 2 miles toward Old Heathfield. Much, much better in all respects and one of the prettiest gardens I've encountered in a pub.

13 Sep 2011 11:48