The Horse and Groom, Heathfield

Attractive old pub, set back from the road a bit, and opposite the impressive village green. Very traditional inside, with separate bar and dining areas, plus a two-part beer garden to one side. Harvey's (£6.20 with a packet of peanuts), Landlord and Proper Job.

Facebook page of The Horse and Groom - www.facebook.com

Facebook page of The Horse and Groom - www.facebook.com

Apparently dating from 1650, the Horse & Groom is set back from the passing road, and large green opposite, by parking spaces to the right and a lawn area with picnic tables behind an old chest high wall to the left. Inside the pub the front entrance is faced by an L-shaped bar that runs down the left to the rear. To the right is a small room with seating and an inglenook. Seating runs down the left where a side door exits to another outside area with a couple of worn picnic tables. There is a fireplace for colder months. It wouldn’t take that many people to make this pub feel very cosy, but during my sunny afternoon visit the pub was empty as everyone, including the friendly governor, was sitting outside. The bar supports a limited keg range and three hand pumps that were drawing St Austell’s Proper Job, TT Landlord and Harvey’s Best. Food is available, obviously as this is a country pub. I’d certainly revisit here again on a nice hot sunny day, but I probably wouldn’t bother any other time.