Yahoo News Sussex pubs named among best in Britain to have been saved from closure
Two pubs in Sussex have been named among the best in Britain to have been saved from closure.
The Bell in Ticehurst and The Black Horse in Climping are among the 12 included in the list from The Telegraph.
Discussing the creation of the list, writer Martin Dunford shared: "For every 10 pubs that shut for good, at least one is saved from dereliction by rescuers who tend to be either hospitality groups with an eye for a good location, or former locals with deep pockets who can’t bear to see their favourite boozer turned into flats."
They continued: "So raise a glass to one of our cherished institutions and take the opportunity to visit some for yourself. Need inspiration? Here’s a rundown of my favourite dozen."
The full list of the best 12 pubs in Britain saved from closure can be found on The Telegraph website here.
What was said about the Sussex pubs?
The Bell in Ticehurst
The Bell in Ticehurst is described as "the epitome of what a modern pub should be" with its food and "affable bar that’s perfect for a quick pint or two" listed among its qualities.
They add: "There’s a dash of quirkiness too, from the bowler hat light fittings to the tubas in place of urinals in the gents’ loos, not to mention the eccentrically decorated guest rooms and purpose-built lodges out the back – the circular Love Nest is an ideal spot for a romantic weekend."
It had closed back in 2008 but underwent a renovation to reopen back in November 2011.
Overall, it has been well-received by visitors, with a score of 4/5 from 577 reviews on Tripadvisor.
One person wrote: "Fabulous food, friendly staff and a brilliant atmosphere. Really enjoyed our meal and will come again!
"Great menu catering for vegetarian & vegan diets with lots of choice and interesting dishes."
Another shared: "Really enjoyed our visit to The Bell. Booked for an early evening Sunday roast, which was delicious. The peanut brownie with banana sorbet was also to die for.
"Friendly staff, great decor. Couldn’t fault it! Will definitely rebook if we’re ever down this way again!"
The Black Horse
Described as a "17th-century smugglers’ haunt" The Black Horse in Climping has earned a lot of plaudits, with The Telegraph included.
It is said to serve "great food in its cosy front bar and contemporary oak-beamed restaurant" as well as offering "welcoming accommodation in its spruced-up rooms upstairs".
They add: "The Black Horse has been lovingly refurbished with care and sensitivity by a local hotel group, which means those craving more amenities can pop across to the spa at the Bailiffscourt Hotel, just two minutes’ walk away."
It was only reopened in March this year and has so far earned a 3.5/5 score on Tripadvisor from 30 reviews.
Recommended reading:
The Bell in Ticehurst one of the best pubs for lunch and a winter walk
The Ram Inn and The Bell among the best country pubs with rooms
One person shared: "Came here after hearing that The Black Horse had just re-opened. What a beautiful place and the staff are extremely friendly. Nothing was too much for them. The food was exceptional as well, came out fast, nice and hot and tasted fantastic."
Another wrote: "Had the fish pie. Best I’ve had ever. Lovely fresh green veg. Chocolate mousse for pud - it was obscene in the best possible way. Sooooo delicious. Lovely waiter."
Meanwhile, another posted: "We visited The Black Horse m since we had heard that it had had a renovation and the food was good. We truly were not let down! Portions are a good size, food is good quality, prices are reasonable and staff provide excellent service. The renovation is beautiful and very sympathetic to the age - they did a fabulous job."
