The Royal Oak, Hastings

Pleasant pub, with all service outdoors in the rear beer garden on a sunny Saturday afternoon despite indoor opening having been permitted as lockdown restrictions ease. A quick look at the interior revealed several small seating / dining areas, and as traditionally furnished and decorated as you would expect. Four real ales on handpump, including Harvey's, Long Blonde from Long Man and Abbot.

The L-shaped bar of the Royal Oak supports a standard keg range alongside four handpumps. During a recent Saturday afternoon visit one of these was unused which left St Austell Proper Job, Harveys Best and Gun Brewery’s Extra Pale as the cask ale options. Food is served Mon – Sat 12:00 - 14.30 & 6:00 - 21:30 and Sun 12:00 - 17:45. The menu is traditional pub food, the bacon cheeseburger with chips is £12. To the left of the bar is a dartboard, but there were tables on the oche during my visit. To the right of the bar is a large inglenook that gives the bar area a traditional rustic feel. Behind the inglenook to the right is more seating which is aimed at diners. I didn’t see a television, but there was some low background music playing. There is a weekly quiz every Wednesday from 20:30. At the rear is a small well-kempt grass covered beer garden that houses picnic tables. Beyond this garden is a car park. The pub’s website and food menus bear a striking resemblance to that of the Queens Head Inn up the road in Icklesham, so I imagine there is some connection. They are both excellent pubs that are deserving of praise.

A very nice brick building with a weather-boarded end abutting the road. The front has a few tables adjacent to a grassy area which features a pretty substantial tree. The interior is well presented, with a decent sized fireplace making a distinctive feature. On the bar were Old Speckled Hen plus two local beers: Harveys Sussex Best and Long Man Session IPA. I had a taste of the latter, but didn't like it, whereas Harveys is one of my favourite beers. Both beers were in very good condition, and although a previous review of this pub had left me doubtful of its inclusion in my schedule, I'm glad I was persuaded to change my mind. We'd have no problem about returning if in the area again. Date of visit: 1st September 2016