The Star Inn—Norman’s Bay—A little Corner of England that is Forever Sussex…
Not many pubs in the locality can claim a rich heritage stretching back as far as 1402. Originally a sluice house, The Star Inn at Norman’s Bay has always played its part in the folklore of the county.
It became an inn during the Civil War with its first name, the Star of Bethlehem more than a nod to the local shepherds since it was their watering hole of choice. The Rye and Battle Observer records its place in history as well when it became a focus during the Battle of Sidley Green in 1828, the last major fight in Sussex between smugglers and excisemen.
Stories abound related to its past. We would love to hear from anyone with a little local folklore knowledge so that we can say something more about the deeds and derring-doing that have taken place in and around this historic public house.
After a recent refurbishment the Star Inn now has a strong nautical theme with maritime memorabilia much in evidence inside.
The pub’s own publicity gives a good sense of the ambience that has been created, the look and feel of the premises and the range of services on offer. Families are clearly at the forefront of the welcome….
“The Star Inn has lots to offer the whole family. You can relax in our restaurant or bar area with drinks from our wide range of real ales, lagers and wines.
Choose meals from our extensive menu or try our famous carvery with three succulent meats and a range of steamed vegetables.
Our large gardens are pleasant in fair weather with lots of bench seating. A river running through the grounds is home to our resident ducks and swans which add to the tranquility.”
Blog the Star and you’ll find that it is a a key reference point on the cyclists map, after a long day’s ride. Trawl and search the web, and you’ll see the thumbs up from the Guardian’s Travel Review section because it ‘guarantees that the kids will love the playground’. A rave review in Sugarvine.com, and a fabulous fans page on Facebook, the world’s favourite social networking site, and you quickly get the message that the Star is clued into utilising the web successfully to get its message out to all the followers.
What comes across from these sources, is the warmth of the friendliness offered at the Star Inn, the good choice food and the fact that as well as offering a must-stop to travellers from afar, it is the regular haunt for people from miles around.
Our own tip is to take some time out on a long warm eventide. Set yourselves the task of sitting outside, next to the river with the ducks and the swans. Not long after you’ve arrived, you’ll think, as you listen to the sound of the water, that you have died, and if not gone to heaven, then at least gone to somewhere very special.
The Star Inn at Norman’s Bay is a little corner of England that is forever Sussex.
- – - – - – - – - – - – - – - – ∞
specialities
Full English Breakfast and unlimited tea/coffee | Sat & Sun £5.95
Carvery | Mon-Fri £4.95 | Sun £8.95
Saturday Catch ~ The freshest and finest local seafood
Takes bookings
Walk-ins welcome
Good for groups or parties
Super-good for children
Table service
Outdoor seating
Payment options include Visa and Mastercard
