Whyte Harte Hotel, Bletchingley

A very old grade II listed inn on the widest part of the High Street, the Whyte Harte has reputedly been a hostelry since 1388. It is constructed from ships' timbers that were said to be 400 years old then. There have been several alterations and additions since but a lot of character and attractive features remain within. Note the most unusual inn sign in the forecourt. The main entrance opens on to a fairly modern style (but well beamed) bar, and to the right, the building seems to have had a Brewer's Tudor makeover many years ago. On your left, however, is the most interesting part of the building. There are no less than three impressive fireplaces. The first, known as "chimney corner", is surrounded by comfy leather settees and has a fire-back in the grate dated 1613. Beyond is the restaurant area divided into three sections and each quite different. There are many exposed beams and rough plasterwork throughout and a variety of flooring materials have been used. In the back room is an old recess next to the fireplace, thought to be an old bread oven, which now houses an illuminated display of various objects. When Bletchingley was a rotten borough, the elections were held in here. Caledonian 80/- is sold as Harte Ale and the guest beers change regularly and come from the Scottish & Newcastle list. Food is available 12-9:30 Monday to Thursday, 12-10:30 Friday and Saturday and 12-9 Sunday. There are eight well-appointed letting rooms. There are seats outside the pub plus a rear beer garden. Whilst records show that from the 1930s this was a Mellersh & Neale house and latterly Friary Meux, an old photo in the bar reveals that the Southwark brewers, Barclay Perkins once held the tie, when the pub was just called the White Hart. Children are welcome until 7:30 and may be allowed later if the bar is not busy.