The White Hart, a historic landmark inn located in Lewes, East Sussex, has reopened after an extensive multi-million pound refurbishment by Heartwood Inns.
To celebrate the opening, guests were transported back to the early days of the inn and invited to immerse themselves in the wonderful history of the building and of Lewes itself.
Steeped in history, Lewes is known as the home of American Founding Father and political activist Thomas Paine. Frequented by Thomas and his acquaintances in the Headstrong Club, The White Hart has since become known as “the cradle of American Independence”.
Guests enjoyed a tasting from a specially-brewed cask of Tom Paine ale, from family-owned Harvey’s Brewery, 18th century music, and calligraphy, as well as other entertainment. Local clockmaker and restoration expert W F Bruce helped to unveil the newly repaired and restored Holman Parliamentary clock that takes pride of place in the bar.
The transformed inn now has 23 boutique bedrooms for guests to stay in, including four newly-created ‘Luxe’ rooms. There is a cosy wood-panelled pub to the front and a stunning dining room and terrace to the rear, offering diners sweeping views of the town and the South Downs beyond.
Guests visiting The White Hart will be able to enjoy its seasonal, sustainably sourced menu, created in line with Heartwood’s three-star rating from the Sustainable Restaurant Association, the highest rating possible.
“We are immensely proud of the work that has gone into restoring this beautiful coaching inn, which is brimming with history,” said Richard Ferrier, chief executive of the Heartwood Collection.
“It is not often that you have the opportunity to acquire such an important slice of American history, particularly on UK soil, and we can’t wait to share the White Hart with locals and visitors from further afield.”
