Castle Inn, Pevensey

The Castle in is set back from the main road and has some picnic tables outside the front. I think that I saw a beer garden advertised at the rear of this pub that looks as though it has been converted from a row of cottages, but I didn’t have a nose as the pub dog sounded a bit lively out the back. There is a sign in the door asking dog owners to speak to the staff before bringing their canine companions in so maybe the pub dog is a little temperamental. The interior is L shaped with two bar areas under a low beamed ceiling. There is a log burning fireplace in each bar and to the right of the entrance there is a large inglenook that has some knick-knacks in it. There are also some old pistols up on the wall and in the back bar there is a plasma screen that was showing an FA Cup game via ITV, I didn’t spot any signs for Sky Sports. The governor was polite without being overly friendly and the Guinness was well served. There are four hand pumps split between the two bars and these were drawing Abbot and Harveys Best. Food is served and a board under the hanging pub sign out the front proudly boasts that they specialise in fresh fish dishes. This place was very much a local’s pub during my visit, but it did have a homely feel and I would have no problem returning.

I was in this pub for the first time at lunchtime on Christmas day. Superb pint of Abbott Ale, but not too cheap at £2.70. Low ceilinged, wooden beamed, real coal fire, quick service even when busy. The regulars even moved aside when I needed to get to the bar. Must be the season of goodwill or something like that, even to non-regulars! I liked this pub and would recommend it on the basis of one visit. But I well understand that it might be a different place at times other than Christmas day. But it did not look like a young person's pub, so I would be very happy to visit again.

Pat and Alex McCombie run this splendid local ancient pub. Excellent food, great company, super quiz nights. Real home from home for locals and grockles alike