The Tanners Arms, Horsham

The Tanners Arms is an unusual pub to say the least but entirely in a good way! Since current landlady Lyndsay took over a couple of years ago it has totally reinvented itself from the quiet, locals only, backstreet boozer that it used to be to become a pub that is very much dedicated to live music. In fact the whole of the internal decor of the pub makes that very apparent with the main bar full of music memorabilia such as record and cd covers, guitars and band photos. There is nearly always music playing too, if not from one of the diverse, but uniformly high quality acts that Lyndsay manages to book for gigs then via Lyndsay's own enjoyable but eclectic music collection played through the excellent in house PA system. The pub's policy is to major on original (as opposed to cover) bands and the range and standard of these is astonishing for such a small, intimate and friendly venue. There are also excellent open mike and electric jam nights featuring local talent to add some variety. It's a really welcoming pub too, with almost a family atmosphere but its a family that readily accepts new members and Lyndsay does a great job of making everyone feel at home. The drinks are good too with a decent range of beers, wines and ciders available and they are well kept, so no dodgy pints! In short this a gem of a pub both as a friendly local and as a top local live music venue. Great credit to Lyndsay and the ever present talented local singer, guitarist, songwriter (and quiz supremo!) 'Chelle Dean who both help to make the pub what is.

1 Aug 2012 13:27