A Pub through the ages

Community Update is proud to announce that we have selected The Cross Inn, as the recipient of our Commitment to Excellence Award.

Established in the 16th century, The Cross Inn is situated in the beautiful village of Staplecross, near the ancient town of Robertsbridge. Legend has it that this perennial gem has supporting beams within the pub that were part of a pair of ships that sunk during the Spanish Armada in 1588. However, in the early 21st century the beams were in fact carbon dated and were aged to be from the 16th century.

Oozing with character and historical elegance and warmth, The Cross Inn has evolved over the years into one of the most loved Pubs in Sussex. The Cross Inn has seen its fair share of old tales over the years that all have fascinating stories behind them. Since its establishment, guests have enjoyed supping a pint of ale or two in this centuries-old public house that is more colourful and characteristic than any city centred gastro pub.

Today, The Cross Inn is run by Robin Matthews, who took over the Pub in 2015. We asked Robin what makes The Cross Inn so special, he answered, “there aren’t that many traditional pubs left anymore, so we may be somewhat part of a dying breed or on the flip side a rare gem worth cherishing. We serve traditional food from our rustic restaurant such as burgers and lasagnes and we deliver a warm and friendly service that makes people feel part of the family as soon as they walk through our doors.”

The Cross Inn is most noted for its vast range of drinks. Harked as a ‘real English drinking pub’ from guests who have left remarkable reviews such as “…not a fake “olde worlde” excuse for a pub beloved of brewery designers. Beautifully frayed round the edges with a glorious open fireplace with mini tree trunks crackling away: hops adorning the beams: cheerful friendly service and good food.”

From real pale ales, lagers and ciders to classic and spectacular sparkling wines, there is a tipple for every preference. Each week there is a new selection of local ales available on tap ranging from pale ales to mild ales. Making every effort to support other local businesses, The Cross Inn stock Harvey’s Sussex Best Bitter which is one of its most popular bitters available. Using a blend of four local hops, water filtered through the Sussex Downs over 30 years, and Harvey’s unique 60-year-old yeast strain, Harvey’s Best Bitter is the embodiment of Sussex and is a superbly balanced bitter with prominent hop character.

Its large list of red, white, rose and sparkling wines derives from all over the world. The Cross Inn stock some of the best wines from Italy, France, Romania, New Zealand, Argentina, Australia and Chile that can be savoured with some comforting traditional food from the Inn’s rustic kitchen.

Of course, what would this historic watering hole be that retains so much of its traditional charm without a hearty menu that consists of some of Britain’s best loved dishes. Over the years guests have boasted of its great food, indulging in some amazing dishes including Deep Fried Brie, Red Lentil Curry, Pork Belly, Beef and Ale Pie, Beer Battered Rye Bay Cod, Burgers made with homemade 6oz beef pattys or not for the faint hearted, the Flaming Siracha Burger. Fresh stone baked pizzas are also available from 5pm-9pm every Friday with choices of standard Margarita’s to Spicy Specials or a Fishy Feast. And of course, no meal is complete without a dessert. From traditional Bread & Butter Pudding to Treacle Tart or a savoury special ‘The Cross Cheeseboard’, guests can be sure to finish their meal off in style.

In closing, The Cross Inn depicts everything you want in a traditional, family run country Pub. Even accommodating to your favourite four legged friends who are allowed to roam freely throughout the bar and the beer garden, it goes without saying your first visit to The Cross Inn most certainly won’t be your last. Combining 16th century tradition with a friendly, homely, characteristic atmosphere, The Cross Inn is a home from home where everyone is welcome.

T 01580 830217
robinmatthews@hotmail.co.uk
www.thecrossinn.com