Elephant & Castle, Lewes

Substantial two-part pub on the far side of the castle from the High Street, so more of a locals pub than most in the town centre. Unfussy furniture and decoration in both rooms (with the main bar at the front and the pool table, dartboard and traditional 'Toad in the Hole' game on the left-hand side). Unusually for a Harvey's pub, Dark Star's Hophead was available in addition to the mandatory Sussex Best (£5.60) from two of the six handpumps.

Dating from 1838, home to Commercial Square Bonfire Society, which celebrates native Americans’ rights (should’ve chosen The Rights of Man as a home, surely?) and unusually for Lewes, a Harvey’s tied house. As described below, I went for a half of Thornbridge Wild Swan, £2.75, unknown to me and unmemorable. Worth it for the carved door surround.

Official site of Elephant & Castle - www.harveys.org.uk

Official site of Elephant & Castle - www.harveys.org.uk

Very close to the Lewes Arms which is a good double header. The interior of this pub is on the large size, with two main rooms supported by a central bar. The lounge area on the right hand side had a tiled floor, pews and large ornate tables. I thought the wood carved panel around the main entrance to be an unusual antiquity [see photos]. My Big Hug Brewing Pave the Way was an excellent choice.