A curiously different, characterful pub-with-rooms, located in the pretty rural village of Ticehurst, East Sussex; The Bell is an unexpected treat with a brilliantly eccentric design throughout having been completely transformed by new owners, and reopening in 2011 - the result is utterly charming. All of the rooms are dog-friendly with their own distinctive style, boasting deep copper bathtubs, comfiest beds and delicious homemade cookies. There are also four whimsical lodges, designed as the perfect hideaway for a wildly romantic escape. Expect uneven floors and exuberant art - including a collection of Tracey Emin, Henry Moore, Banksy and Picasso - and quirky design features in every nook; it's a delightfully welcoming hub and a cosy bolthole, suited to couples looking to hunker down and larger groups keen to explore the area, with a gastro-pub style restaurant, serving delicious modern-British dishes.
Explore the charming town of Rye - 30-minutes' away - with its rich history, cobbled streets and red-brickwork buildings, renowned eateries and brilliant independents.
Located in the village of Ticehurst, you'll find Scotney Castle a 15-minute drive away, as well as Sissinghurst Castle Garden a little further.
By car: around 1 hour 30 minutes from London, 2 hours from Oxford and 3 hours from Birmingham. Free parking on-site.
By train: London Charing Cross to Wadhurst takes an hour. The hotel is a 10-minute taxi ride from the station. thetrainline.com
Designed for art-lovers and foodies, as well as couples looking for a wildly romantic getaway and larger groups celebrating an occasion. The playful interiors intended to spark conversation - in particular, the bowler hat lights and floor-to-ceiling book pile in the main pub area.
It was a joy to discover the beautiful gardens, designed by Chelsea Flower Show gold medal garden designer, Jo Thompson, who lives in the village.
- Restaurant
- Bar
- Terrace
- Garden
- Board games
- Family-friendly
- Free parking
- Free Wi-Fi
Dogs are welcome in all rooms and lodges with a cosy bed and treats.
We swooned over The Moon Wild (Deluxe Double) with its bare wooden floors and earthy palette, featuring colourful art, sumptuous fabrics and the original brick-fireplace. A little bit offbeat, a little bit luxe - the cute bathroom stole the show with its large black and white floor-tiles and deep copper tub.
Classic Double, Deluxe Double, Suite, Lodge
Facilities include: enasuite bathroom with toiletries, hairdryer, tea and coffee facilities, TV, free Wi-Fi
The polenta chips and deliciously moreish marmite gravy offer a great veggie take on a classic Sunday roast, enjoyed by the inglenook fire. The 'La-Di-Da' five-course tasting menu showcases exquisitely playful creations from land-to-sea; enjoy locally sourced meats and fish, seasonal fruits, wines and cheeses and alluring puddings.
The Restaurant: gastro pub, British cuisine and pub classics. Open daily from 12pm.
The Stables: fine dining, locally sourced ingredients, seasonal menus. Open Wed for dinner. Five-course taster menu from £65.
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