A night at The White Hart, Lewes

A night at The White Hart, Lewes

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The perfect place to stay for a weekend away this winter

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Lewes has always been famous for its riotous bonfire night celebrations, being a historical hotspot and having chocolate box streets. The town is also a hub of creativity with galleries, a lively music scene and their fair share of tasty eateries too. The South Downs is on your door step, with many parks, nature reserves and the river Ouse winding through it all. It’s safe to say, Lewes has a lot to offer and explore, however there have never been many options for accommodation. Until now. This is where The White Hart, a once 16th-century coaching Inn, comes into play. 

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The grand building, left slightly dilapidated over the years, now sits proudly on top of the high street opposite the Town Hall. It has been refurbished head-to-toe by the Heartwood Collection, a 41-strong chain. This grade two listed building has been beautifully transformed into a stylish pub, with four sumptuous suite bedrooms and 19 other charming bedrooms, a large oak panelling dining room and excellent atmospheric lighting throughout the impressive establishment. The pub also has its own interesting history. The plaque outside the pub announces that Thomas Paine, one of America’s founding fathers supposedly debated and drank right here, which definitely fired my imagination! As I strolled around exploring the nooks and crannies of this incredible 500 year old building,I wondered what shenanigans and philosophical debates happened in between these walls. 

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First impressions were of an olde worlde atmosphere like stepping into a character filled pub in Harry Potter, but also rather grand with their use of lighting and lavish seating. I was kindly greeted by the welcoming staff and given instructions for my room. Wandering up the large staircase, I found my room tucked up on the third floor. Opening the door I was welcomed into a spacious bedroom with warm soft pink walls, big windows, large beams, brass bedside lighting and Classic FM soothingly playing out on the radio. Instantly, I felt relaxed as I unpacked. The rooms are all different, but you can expect; a comfortable bed, antique looking furniture with plenty of storage as well as a stylish fabric headboard, Bramley bed sprays and a bold tiled bathroom.

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The bed was centre stage and inviting me in, but before I got tucked into the luxurious bed sheets, I knew dinner awaited. Heading down to the dining room, huge Tudor fireplaces cover half the walls. The magical surroundings once again reminded me of the likes of Harry Potter.  I then passed cosy snugs and concaves where people were sitting down for an intimate drink. It then opened up into a grand wood panelled bar and restaurant. Following the waiter to our table, I entered into the newly added extension. This modern open plan dining room had intimate areas with cleverly designed plants and seating to break up the open plan.

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Their seasonal menu was very enjoyable and stands out from the rest of the menu. If you’ve been to other Heartwood pubs before, you'll be familiar with the chilled atmosphere and the menu. It is definitely above the average pub grub. Starting off, I had the crab and sweet corn bites that were crispy and delicious. The cheese souffle was the fluffiest, creamiest and tastiest thing I have put into my mouth. The starters definitely excelled expectations. Similarly, I had a great experience with my seasonal main dish, which was cooked perfectly - consisting of succulent oak-smoked outdoor bred pork ribeye, creamy dauphinoise, hispi cabbage and the apple & prune chutney really married all the flavours together. Their seasonal desert that resembles, in their words, ‘a frozen autumn floor’ was creative and flavoursome. l thoroughly enjoyed my meal and with prices starting from £13.95 for a main, I would recommend it for a hearty meal and a stunning setting. 

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I couldn't have gotten a better night's sleep, honestly I've never slept on a mattress so thick before! After waking up and having a refreshing shower, I headed downstairs back to the dining area for breakfast. There was a phenomenal panoramic vista of the glorious rolling Downs and the expansive windows stretched across most of the dining area, making for great views to take in  and enjoy all morning. As for the breakfast, it was a hearty English breakfast for me, other various combinations were available, my boyfriend got the veggie breakfast which was thoroughly enjoyed. It was delicious and everything you want from a breakfast. We sat for a while taking in the gorgeous setting, chatting, reading newspapers and drinking coffee and fresh orange juice. Overall a fabulous stay, with comfy rooms, tasty food, great atmosphere and lovely staff. I am already looking forward to coming back. This hotel is giving Brighton establishments a good run for their money.

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Check out their rooms and restaurant at www.whitehartlewes.com

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