An 1866 village pub still retaining its original two bars, the Murrell has an historic interior identified by CAMRA as being of regional importance. Walls and ceilings are decorated with old pictures, craft tools and local memorabilia, many of which relate to former landlord and local historian Mervyn Cutten. In the right-hand Public Bar the rare game of Ring the Bull can be played. Pub opens at 10.30 on Fontwell Park race days, and closing may be later if busy.
Historic Interest
Built circa 1750 as a farmhouse by William Murrell (1718-1791), yeoman. A pub since 1866. A blacksmith's shop was next door, where the car park now is.
One star - A pub interior of special national historic interest
Listed status: Not listed
Built c.1750 by William Murrell as a farmhouse and became a pub in 1866. This pub has been much altered over the years. The interior is a mish-mash of period work, dating from Victorian times/interwar/ post WWII. Public bar on right was two small rooms and retains some half panelling (but part re-worked), some parquet flooring, what appears to be an inter-war bar counter (but new top) with a totally inappropriate modern (1980s?) semi-circular brick bar back with modern shelving. Front door to former off sales remains. Work of post war vintages in rear of bar, together with a modern 'themed' stonework fireplace.
Lounge on left has vestible entrance with two etched glass windows proclaiming Public Bar and Private bar side by side and clearly have been moved there from elsewhere. Some old panelling and fireplaces and a bar front (post war) constructed to resemble a barrel with hoops and staves which impinges on a former fireplace.
Overall, an eclectic mix of period styles and bric a brac.
This Pub serves 2 changing beers and 2 regular beers.
Murrell Arms, Barnham
Always from Fuller's stable
Changing beers typically include: Dark Star (varies) , Dark Star - Hophead , Fuller's (varies)
Source: Regional