The Abergavenny Arms, Rodmell

A fantastic village pub with lots of history. Recent years have been hard and many in the village feared we would lose it. Since September Jon and Lucie have bravely taken a 10 year lease on the place. They have already transformed the atmosphere and are gradually upgrading and repairing the rather tired decor as funds allow. This is well worth a visit especially if you haven't been in in for a while. The Harveys is excellent and they also have a good guest beer, sometimes two at busy times of the year. The food is good and the games room now features a pool table, dart board and Toad.

7 Feb 2013 17:12

Lewes Arms, Lewes

Under the current management the Lewes Arms is hugely improved. The beer is spot on - even the Harveys - and there is a good selection. The food is unpretentious and fantastic value. Staff are hard-working and very friendly. The place is a bit of a rabbit warren so it does get very crowded around the tiny bar - but that's the price of an historic and unspoiled building. They have extended the hours when the kitchen is open, transformed the toilets and are trying really hard. A must when you visit Lewes.

18 Aug 2011 11:14

The Swan, Lewes

Landlord John died earlier this year and his wife Glenys left a few months after. Terribly sad as John was one of a disappearing breed of classic landlords - he could appear curmudgeonly at first but he earned the respect and affection of his customers and looked after them very well in return. 100's turned out for his funeral. Harveys have put in a temporary team to manage it while they decide what to do with the place. Last time I visited it had that flat atmosphere you get during an inter-regnum. I hope Harveys do something imaginative and classy - this place is bursting with potential and big enough to have a great locals bar yet still offer a more extensive and ambitious menu.

18 Aug 2011 11:05