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Tanners Arms, Horsham

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user reviews of the Tanners Arms, Horsham

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JulianC - 9 Aug 2016 18:05
This was the last Horsham pub for me to tick off, and I certainly saved the best till last. Super little place, great atmosphere, great beers. I imagine when they have live bands on the atmosphere must be brilliant, so must get myself down there for one. For me the number one pub in Horsham.
happy_wanderer - 13 Sep 2014 10:00
My husband and I booked The Tanners for a 60th birthday celebration last weekend and as we don't live in Horsham all arrangements were done by email and phone. Everything was organised efficiently but the landlady who was always helpful. The celebration went very well with an excellent band recommended by the landlady and good food and atmosphere. A great local pub and we felt really at home and comfortable. My husband particularly enjoyed the real ale (a little too much!) and a great night was had by all. My sincere thanks for a great night and we will definitely be back when next in Horsham.
bernieed - 10 Apr 2014 15:40
If you like listening to good music in a cosy, friendly local pub, then this is the place. The whole pub is geared to play live music, with a PA system and speakers all set up permananently with lots of cool musical decor and different music events every week.

We are a new band who were looking for some where frinedly to play our first gigs and ventured down to the Wednesday Open Mic night. Many open mic nights you come across can be very cliquey and unwelcoming, this was the complete opposite and we were encouraged by all the regulars and Lyndsay and Chelle to come and play from our first visit, despite it being a mainly acoustic night. We finally played last week and went down really well and are now booked in to play the monthly live lounge night tomorrow. It is refreshing to find somewhere that is such a keen advocate of original music and both Lyndsay and Chelle could not have been more helpful and accomodating when it came to equipment problems and any other issues we had.

All in all a real welcoming and friendly pub, great locals and great live music. Looking forward to the gig tomorrow and having a few summer beers in this place!
Empires_John - 19 Mar 2014 15:29
We held a birthday party here and it was fantastic. It was for around 40 people and was the perfect size for what we wanted with enough room for a good dance. Lyndsay was very helpful in making it such a success. The food was of excellent quality and very good value. Everyone commented on the atmosphere was and how great the buffet was. I would definitely reccommend The Tanners Arms as a place to hold birthday parties or other functions. Thank you for a great night!
amy1988 - 24 Jan 2014 12:08
This is an absolutely fantastic pub. The Open Mic evenings are unmissable with Terry being an excellent host. The talent is awe inspiring and there's always someone new to listen to. Lyndsay the landlady is a lovely, warm lady who makes everyone feel truly welcome. I'm probably the worst person to ask to review a pub as I am virtually teetotal but I never feel out of place at the pub as Lyndsay happily makes me a great cup of tea. I take my children here for the Open Mic evenings and sometimes they give the customers doughnuts or homemade pumpkin pie. The atmosphere is always great. Very quickly we made friends with most of the regulars and feel it is the best place to go to for an evening out. We even went here for our New year's Eve celebrations - a fun night of music, food and fancy dress. Try a night out at the Tanners Arms you won't be disappointed!
TessTickle - 6 Jan 2014 22:04
We loved it! We've not long lived in the area and popped in one Thursday and saw some really amazing live music there, all sorts of people playing acoustic guitars, it was fantastic! The atmosphere was so friendly, we just got chatting to a lovely gentleman all about blues and another couple who knew one of the singers I think! We like a nice beer and were so pleased to see we've stumbled upon a Free House, something we understand to be a bit of a commodity in the area and we have to say the beers they had that week were just lovely! We've been back since and enjoyed their lovely beer garden (and different lovely beers again of course!), and we'll be back many more times I'm sure - what a lovely pub, we thoroughly recommend it.
Mrs_Bee - 9 Aug 2013 16:20
It’s ‘all change’ at The Tanners… It’s been a lovely pub for a number of years now, but has recently become a Free House. The variety of beers and traditional ciders on offer is a joy, the interior is decorated so you know it’s a music venue from the minute you walk in – but it’s still a pub, with a lovely atmosphere; people really do meet new friends in this place, we’ve done so ourselves. The garden is beautiful and the weekly entertainment is varied and well attended, from quizzes and open mic or jam type nights to some really excellent live music. We’ve even seen bands from America and Canada playing there and it’s obvious the landlady works really hard to make it what it is – one of the nicest, friendliest music venues/pubs in the area. Big thumbs up from us.
bleedindoolally - 2 Aug 2013 11:28
This is a place to be avoided as our experience was very disappointing. We were looking forward to a nice cold lager at the end of a hot day and instead were given drinks that far from being chilled were warmer than room temperature. When we returned the drinks, another gentleman was also returning his, the landlady to my shock poured all the drinks into a jug and offered to put them through the cooler. We all declined as we had all taken a sip of the lagers and they were now all mixed together in the jug. We were unimpressed with her level of hygiene knowledge but decided to give her a chance and take the only cold drink that had not yet been sampled by everybody which was a bitter. It tasted awful. Her attitude was ill mannered and rude, we have awarded this pub one point as the packet of crisps was nice. We wont be going there again.
drinkers_league - 19 Jul 2013 22:26
The Tanners Arms is the best live music venue in Horsham, we have had the pleasure of playing there many times and always look forward to going back there, there is always something on and things are well organised by landlady Lyndsay who does a great job.
ZABT1 - 20 Nov 2012 20:39
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.

surferdave - 1 Aug 2012 13:27
Another TOP night at the Tanners. I went along to the "Live Lounge" event that is held monthly and features local musicians/bands doing original material. A great atmosphere and a superb antidote to crap "reality" TV. What could be more real than this? Nice people, super pint of Tanglefoot... and my Wife was very pleasantly surprised by the quality of the wine-by-the-gless selection. Hats off to Lindsay (landlady) and all who contributed to a grat night at this Bijou venue..... quite literally Bijou = Jewel!
mrchris060 - 16 Sep 2011 10:27
23rd June 2011 Live Lounge at the Tanners Arms Brighton Road, Horsham.

Hosted by Michelle �Chelley� Dean, a packed audience were treated to a great bunch of performers in the persons of: Terry McMaster, Philip Lymbery, Anita Jardine, Roy Sudan Band and Michelle �Chelley� Dean with a guest appearance by Thain Martin of ReOffender performing original material. A terrific evening's entertainment! A not-to-be-missed evening for those who want something new in their musical diet. Great stuff everybody!

In such a short time, the Tanners has become unique in Horsham, drawing artists and music lovers from a wide radius to this friendly and welcoming venue. No longer just a pub, but a much loved and appreciated stage for new talent at it's Open Mic, original material, superbly performed at its Live Lounge (originals only night) as well as its regular band slots on a Friday and Saturday night along with a whole host of other events and activities. Keep it going by giving it your support and keep music live and kicking!
thegutterhearts - 25 Jun 2011 12:54
The Tanners Arms is a Fantastic place to be. I have performed at this Pub with my band ReOffender and can personally say, I had the most enjoyable gig I've ever done! The people were so welcoming and Lyndsay has created such a warm and homely atmosphere that it is a real pleasure to play there. Wether there are 10 people in the pub or packed to the rafters, you really get a sense that the people who are there, come because they love music and really appreciate what the musicians are doing.

There really is so much going on at this great venue every week, a real mix of fantastic artists consistently coming through the doors from miles around. Open mics, originals nights and full electric bands, something for everyone. Cannot wait to perform at The Tanners again soon!
ReoThain - 13 Jun 2011 11:38
Enjoyed the Easter beerfest, but was disappointed to find that they were still trying to sell the totally flat and obviously "off" leftovers a week later. All handpump clips turned round as well, so no choice but to go elsewhere.
kryten - 6 May 2011 07:16
Since my last posting in October 2010, things have moved on apace. On the music front we now have the open mic, originals night, and a dazzling range of live bands and performers on a Friday and Saturday, with bookings going into February next year and beyond, to look forward to. In addition the easter beer festival should quench a few thirsts and introduce a few initiates to the pleasures of a good pint. Lyndsay and her team have not only turned an ailing business around, but have taken it into the top tier of leisure and entertainment in Horsham and the surrounding area without losing that warmth and intimacy that makes the Tanners such a good place to be. Nice one Lyndsay. Keep it going!
thegutterhearts - 4 Mar 2011 19:29
This is one of the few pubs who really loves its music, the love and care that is put into promoting local artists is touching and quite encouraging to us musicians who have to deal with pubs who are "only in it for the money" as Frank Zappa would say... Hurrah to Lyndsay, she is a breath of fresh air!
MrsPea - 23 Nov 2010 01:06
There was a time when we thought we'd lose the Tanners for ever, but Lyndsay has completely turned the old place around. It is clean and comfortable with a relaxed and warm atmosphere and polite, helpful and welcoming staff. Lyndsay's energy and imagination has generated interest anew in this once again traditional pub with a contemporary and attractive twist. She has brought good music to the Tanners with the best bands in the area performing on a Saturday and an �Originals Night� showcasing brilliant and original songwriter/performer talents from Sussex. Thank you Lyndsay and the team. The Tanners is set to be an unique and exiting contribution to the leisure scene in Horsham and beyond for a long time to come.
thegutterhearts - 8 Oct 2010 19:05
Excellent pub with a Landlady who has really changed things around for the better.
Great music, good beer and friendly crowd.

Well done Lyndsay and good luck for the future in the pub.
davetoye - 28 Sep 2010 15:58
Had a fantastic night (4th Sept),the Tanners arms were holding a charity fun night with a fantastic band ,raffle and bbq.What a fun night!!Lovely atmosphere,good beer and lovely landlady!!well worth a visit !
vicfrancis - 5 Sep 2010 20:10
Deserves to succeed, if it doesn't it won't be for lack of trying. VASTLY IMPROVED over how it was before and beer is in good nick. Didn't know about the takeway in-house policy, a good curry from the Raj Kumar and a few pints would be my idea of heaven.
workhard - 2 Jun 2010 17:31
Popped in last night on a whim with a friend as he'd heard about the open mic night...

This pub is so nice, the folks inside were friendly and the landlady was really welcoming and chatty and we didn't at all get that 'are you LOCAL???' feeling...

We'll be back to play again and look forward to warmer nights because the beer garden is looking lovely out there.

Thank you for a lovely couple of hours!
bleedindoolally - 13 May 2010 16:29
Hello all.

I was tempted back to the Tanners by the recent Beer Festival, which was very good, but also made me think how frustrating it must be to sell such fantastic local beers for one weekend and then have to return to the usual Hall & Woodhouse fodder. Anyway, thanks to Lindsey(sic?) for arranging it. Stunning Mild from Arundel was the winner.

Lindsey has been the landlady for 14 months and whilst I can't claim to be her biggest supporter, I do try to have a pint whilst out with the dogs most nights and she really has made a difference.

No longer is the Tanners the domain of local oiks and wideboys, her passion for creating a place to relax in is evident as soon as you walk in. Good background music, as well as the aforemetioned "open mic" night on Wednesdays and a band on Saturdays.

A very novel and welcome attraction is the abilty to order a takeaway for consumption on the premises, with cutlery & crockery supplied, your washing up done and at NO COST!!!

Well kept Sussex and Lemony Cricket on currently, as well as Stowford Press cider. Most of the H & W bottled offerings are in stock.

Much improved, keep it up Lindsay.


Moses - 10 May 2010 15:49
Popped in here last Sunday evening because they had a mini beer festival on over the bank holiday week-end.

It was bit quiet and there was a rather incongruous group of children sitting at a table playing cards (albeit beautifully behaved).

The two ales I tried were in tip-top condition and I'm only sorry I couldn't have stayed longer or gone back for another session.

Quite why the place was so quiet when there was a beer festival and the ales were all �2.50 per pint (cheapest beer in Horsham save for Wetherspoons?), and the atmosphere was very pleasant and relaxing (good music on the stereo too, not the usual sort of stuff which I tend to avoid), I'll never know.

I wish the new landlady well in her venture here and hope the pub goes from strength to strength.
Ordinary - 6 Apr 2010 22:37
I forgot to say before that I think the photo of the Tanners used on the site is an old one as it did not look like that when I stopped in. After chatting to Lyndsay the new land lady, I understand that the bar and outside have undergone a complete redecoration. It all looked very contemporary when I was there and alot more up to date and modern than the photograph leads you to believe. Cheers!!!!
BigSis1973 - 23 Feb 2010 14:34
A very welcoming place to relax after a hard day at work. The landlady is very helpful, serving a wide range of drinks and guest beers. Will pop in again soon when I am next down in the area. Thankyou!
BigSis1973 - 23 Feb 2010 13:46
We love going into the Tanners especially on Wednesday nights open mic night and when there is live music. We are always given a warm welcome by landlady Lyndsay, there is a great atmosphere there.
nannysmidge - 24 Jan 2010 12:52
The Tanners is now my pub of choice whenever I venture out into Horsham. Pub landlady Lyndsay has certainly given the place a whole new lease of life since she's taken over and there seems to be something entertaining to see or participate in. For example, I love going in on Wednesday nights when my good friend "Slippery T" is hosting the open mic session. It's certainly a lot more pleasant to spend time in The Tanners these days which is all down to the contemporary makeover Lyndsay has overseen. Definitely worth a visit if you're in the area.
wei1999 - 19 Jan 2010 13:31
Already, in the short time the new landlady has been there, the Tanners has improved markedly. She's making a real effort, has many great ideas for the place, and has already introduced a few. Frankly, the proprietors of some other pubs in the town would do well to have the same attitude/approach/etc. There, I've said it. :] I for one will be dropping into the Tanners much more regularly, and look forward to seeing the place develop. And I recommend that you give it a try. Current rating: I'd say about 7-ish for now (but only because the new landlady has inherited some things that are a throwback to the Tanners 'of old'). Before too long, I reckon it'll rate as 9 or 10.
mark2009 - 24 Apr 2009 12:52
Recently changed hands. New landlady making a real effort to get this pub back on track. Serves as good a pint of Hall & Woodhouse Sussex as you can get.
JohnandSue - 4 Apr 2009 10:22
With two small bars, one very much so ( a true �snug�), this local boozer was formerly part of the King & Barnes estate. I hadn�t been in here for years but popped in last Tuesday after a Horsham FC home game and enjoyed a couple of beers (Hall & Woodhouse �Badger�) in a convivial atmosphere. Although clearly a �locals� pub, my friends and I weren�t made to feel outsiders and I for one would probably go back another time.

Ordinary - 14 Feb 2008 22:11
I use the tanners for a friendly drink at the weekends it used to be good on saturday lunch time but liquid dosent flow there until 4 in the afternoon now. they say its good in the evenings but the price of a pint stops me drinking through the week. I find the landlady friendly but dont upset her!! her old man does as he is told and grabs a beer when he can. they always have nibbles on the bar for the regulars on a sunday, a nice touch i feel.cant do the pub no harm, but I am not one of the inbreeders.as someonesays.
fishyboy - 30 Dec 2007 03:44
Possibly the weirdest pub in Horsham. I've lived opposite for the last year and visited on only a handful of occasions. Beer garden to the rear is lovely with a pond full of healthy looking fish.

Inside, the decorating has finally finished, but it remains a locals pub. I think some inbreeding might have been going on around here at some point, as the locals all seem to be a bit special.

Anyway...beer is average and menu is basic. Doesn't claim to be anything more though, so one can't really complain.

Worth visiting, for the garden if nothing else.
doot - 5 Sep 2007 14:01
I've developed a strange affection for the Tanners since getting very drunk there and taking part in one of their Karaoke evenings. Great garden out the back and 'her indoors' appreciates the house no swearing rule that operates in the bars. Seems to be in a constant state of refit/redecorating at present.

The snug is just that and the main bar feels like someones living room. Locals, staff, and landlords very friendly and welcoming and are good at remembering faces so we always get a good welcome when we visit even though we probably only fetch up there once a month. Beer is nothing special but nowt wrong with it in my experience.
workhard - 4 Sep 2006 16:11
A truly awful pub, probably the worst in Horsham. Smelly and last decorated in the Seventies,it really doesn't have a lot to commend it. I am fairly certain it will win no further awards for the quality of it's cellar as the beer I tried had a vinegary aftertaste followed by immediate indigestion. One to avoid.
minesatreble - 13 May 2006 14:04
Traditional locals� pub located on a main road just far enough out of town to have escaped the noise and bustle. A cream coloured, two-storey, square and symmetrical building with window shutters, it is now owned by Hall and Woodhouse but still bears its old King and Barnes signs. The words The Tanners Arms appear in gold on a distinctive blue circular wall plaque between the first floor windows � a name that, according to The Sussex Good Pub Guide 2004, is derived from the former tannery that stands opposite. To the left of the front entrance is an old fashioned snug bar. To the right is a separate, long and narrow lounge bar that opens up, first, onto a games area with dartboard, pool table (traditional green baize) and gaming machines, and then onto an enclosed beer garden that is currently undergoing some renovation. Seating is on comfy red covered wall benches, chairs and stools. A flat screen TV is the only indication that we are in the 21st century. The service here is very friendly with a personal touch. This is reflected in a notice that states the official afternoon opening hours of 12-2.30 Monday to Friday and 12-3.00 Saturday and Sunday, but adds that the pub will stay open all day if there are enough customers to make it worthwhile. Several times GBG listed between 1992 and 2002 it now has a Cask Marque certificate and three beers available on handpump: Badger brewed King and Barnes Sussex Bitter, plus Gribble brewed Fursty Ferret and King and Barnes Mild. A half of the Sussex Bitter looks faintly hazy but tastes fine. A pint of the mild is in decent condition and does very well as a companion to a delicious, freshly made gammon roll.
thequaffer - 14 Apr 2005 14:55

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