The George Inn, Polegate

One of many attractive old buildings lining the High Street, and it retains the sort of very traditional interior most tourists would expect. However, although very much a dining pub, there is still a reasonably general seating area in front of the main part of the bar counter. Duplicated selection of Dark Star's Hophead (£6.00), Landlord and Abbot from the two banks of three handpumps.

We were in Alfriston to visit the National Trust property in the village, whose claim to fame is that it was the first ever property the National Trust bought back in 1896, but walking there from the car park at the top end of the village I was amazed that a small village like this could sustain four pubs. Well that was until we started browsing the village craft shops and perusing the restaurant and pub menus. Let’s just say there’s a bit of money sloshing about in Alfriston We only had time to visit one and on the recommendation of the waiter in our lunch restaurant we rucked up here. This really is a superb historic building and WhatPub has it being first licensed in 1397, with the foundations of this splendid flint stone and half-timbered building date back to over a century earlier in 1250, and apparently there is a network of smugglers' tunnels leading from its cellars. The bar, with its two rooms has lots of dark wood and solid oak beams and an impressive inglenook fireplace. Internally it is as well described in Steve’s review below, and yes the floor beam between the two bar sections is a monster and takes no prisoners. I’m sure it’s claimed several inebriated revellers over the years. It’s a Green King house and there are 2 banks of 3 pumps, one on each bar section. Four ales were on across these as two were doubled up on each set. Alongside Abbot and IPA there was TTLandlord and Dark Star Hop Head. I went for the Hop Head and it was very good. Blessed with a lovely day we utilised the large garden area that stretches from the initial terrace away from the pub towards the Tye and there is a back gate that leads to the village church, handy for a Sunday I guess. This pub is also known for serving good food. I should bloody hope so after seeing the price point of some of the mains. in conclusion the waiter didn’t let us down, I thought this was a very decent pub.

Official site of the George Inn - www.thegeorge-alfriston.com

Official site of the George Inn - www.thegeorge-alfriston.com