16-02-2025
'Eclectic' Sussex pub with 'excellent' ales among UK's best to visit in winter
An "eclectic" Sussex pub with a selection of "excellent" local ales has been named among the UK's best to visit in winter.
The Horse & Groom in St Leonards was featured in an article from The Guardian.
It listed a selection of 10 pubs recommended by readers in terms of cosiness, great drink options and walks to be enjoyed in the surrounding area.
In a summary, The Guardian said: "From Cornwall to southern Scotland our tipsters celebrate the joys of a cosy inn on a cold winter's day."
The full list of the UK's best winter pubs can be found on The Guardian website here.
The Guardian reader Elian made the recommendation of The Horse & Groom due to its decor and drinks selection.
They wrote: "Known (lovingly) by regulars as the Doom and Gloom, the Horse and Groom is the oldest pub in St Leonards-on-Sea.
"It's your favourite local's favourite local: an eclectic range of odd interlocutors comprised of creative boho types and grumpy blokes (it's a 'talking' pub: no music), excellent local Sussex ales, knackered board games, decor untouched by time.
"In the cold months, friends whittle away the time here chatting or scrabbling; conducted best with a port sat near the open fire.
"Pints start well below £5 with Harvey's on tap. The bracing seafront with its galleries and restaurants is minutes away on foot."
The positive sentiments about The Horse & Groom were shared by visitors, with it having earned a 4.4/5 score on Google Reviews and a 3.5/5 score on Tripadvisor.
One person wrote: "Echoing all past, present and future imbibers extolling the genuine "pubness" of H&G. You can engage with the locals at the bar or, choosing to be at a table, left to your own thoughts. All who have spent time here have a special camaraderie.
"Added bonus - they emphatically discourage toddlers and accompanying strollers. Nirvana for the adult sector!"
Recommended reading:
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Another shared: "Absolute gem. A traditional, local pub. Great beer and traditional set up."
A third posted: "Great pub that was a real surprise. A time warp kind of pub that still has the grand charm & atmosphere of bygone times.
"Staff very polite & chatty & other guest interesting and friendly. No noisy hideous music which was also a real treat, just being able to talk & be heard."
