The Bell
The Bell is on the south side of the village and is the most up-market of the choices. More restaurant than pub, it is divided into a number of distinct areas - including a small bar area downstairs that is cosy and warm - worth a visit. There is a large conservatory, airy and light for non-smokers, a separate area for the dedicated drinker, and the main restaurant style area which is where the majority of the excellent food is served.
The theory is that bits of the pub date back to 1383 - making it the most established in the village - certainly it has been so recently renovated (1997) that it doesn't feel that way, although it does retain some period features that show the history. Anne Boleyn once stayed here when it was a coaching inn and the main route to Eastbourne ran right past the front door. Watch out for the low beam when going downstairs to the snug bar!
The food is not cheap at around £10 per main course from the daily specials board (which doesn't change that often), but good quality, and there are less expensive alternatives from the standard pub menu. Certainly our preferred eating out venue in the village.
There is a beer garden and ample parking, so it is somewhere that you could bring the children in summer for a pub lunch. The arbour is covered with a vine that is allegedly 300 years old.
The proprietors know their regulars and are very welcoming - this pub is definitely worth a visit, particularly for an evening meal.
We give this one 9/10...what do you think?