The Johns Cross Inn, Johns Cross, Robertsbridge

Visited the place in February 2010, and was impressed at the friendly welcome. The landlord told me they'd only been there for a year. Two ales and a cider on hand pump. Bar snacks were laid out, and we had a really good meal. Would certainly go back.

The Johns Cross Inn appears to be a bit of a labour of love for Bob, its long standing charismatic landlord who doubles the pub up as a showcase for his impressive artwork (he has an art workshop and signwriting business in the old function room behind the pub). The weatherboarded building dates from the early 16th century and has quite a history, serving not only as an inn but also as an army recruitment centre, mail coach collection point and a customs & excise office. It is quite isolated and probably relies mainly on passing traffic and diners although I wouldn't say there is a large emphasis on dining facilities like many country pubs. It does however unofficially boast the UK's smallest pub dining room, a small room containing 1 table and an old bread baking kiln. As you would expect, the ceilings are low and beamed and the old fireplaces must have beckoned in many a weary traveler over the centuries. The late 18th century extension now houses a games room. It is however the murals and paintings that draw the immediate attention, maybe a bit overpowering but a great conversation piece. Not a large selection of ales - 2 on my visit (Abbott and Harveys) but Bob (if I may be so informal) certainly appears to take pride in the quality. The large garden affords panoramic views over the downs (or so I was told - it was dark when I was there). An odd quirk is to be found in the car park - a tapered roller designed for rolling sloping lawns that was apparently found when clearing some brambles (naturally Bob referred to it as having a Roller in the drive). An interesting pub made very welcoming by the landlord and well worth a stop off on the way to/from the Battle or Hastings area.