Wealden Times | WT243 | August 2022 | Taste Of The South East Supplement inside

The Bell in Ticehurst
Bliss at the Bell
Location: A public house on the Kent-Sussex border, in what was a rather showy Tudor
property around 1560, but is now transformed into something utterly charming and unique.
The food: Recently described in the Michelin Guide as having ‘quirky surroundings; serious
food’, the menu is full of Sussex’s finest – Bodiam côte de bœuf with triple cooked chips, Sussex
coast fish, English strawberries with white chocolate and basil sorbet. Most of all, be sure to try
the new spritz and cocktail menu for a sun downer around the garden fire pit.
The stay: Eclectic in the truest sense – it’s as if an eccentric nobleman has travelled the world
and filled The Bell with curiosities from his travels, from vintage wallpaper to a fine collection
of art by the likes of Tracey Emin, Banksy, and Picasso. Seven guest rooms and four garden
lodges are individually designed – with silver birch branches, patterned tiles and huge copper
bathtubs, – and the garden lodges look out onto a gorgeous pub garden by Chelsea Flower
Show gold medal garden designer, Jo Thompson, who lives in the village.
eat
Prices: Mid-week doubles from £165
thebellinticehurst.com
sleep
breathe
Saltwick Media
Saltwick Media
These local stays are great for an
evening meal and a sound night’s sleep
A Rural Getaway
Saltwick Media
The Queen’s Inn
Location: On the border of Kent and East Sussex, surrounded by attractions including The Kent and
East Sussex Railway, Bedgebury Forest and three castles – all within a 20 minute drive.
The food: A carefully designed AA Rosette standard menu of seasonal dishes made with local produce,
alongside sharing tapas and authentic Italian-style hand-stretched pizzas. Downstairs, relax in the bar
with a pint of local bitter, a glass from the extensive wine list or a specially crafted cocktail, before
dinner in one of the cosy and intimate dining areas.
The stay: Charmingly refurbished from an old smuggling inn, with a wealth of stunning interiors.
Its eight uniquely designed bedrooms offer modern luxuries, with a choice of King or Emperor sized
beds, and can accommodate families or couples to make any occasion a special one. The Queen’s is
ideal for a weekend of exploring and relaxing in the comfort of a welcoming and friendly inn.
Prices: Two people can stay with breakfast in a standard double room for £120; £160 gets you a
superior double or family room. For a more deluxe option you can stay in a luxury double room for
£180 or a deluxe suite for £210.
thequeensinnhawkhurst.co.uk
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