Sussex has been on our radar for many years for its stunning countryside views, its quaint villages and more recently for the revolutionary nature of the food and wine scene here. With more Brits looking for short wine and food escapes, we are doing all the hard work and are also on the hunt for the best places to stay in England near vineyards, gin distilleries and whisky producers.
After a weekend in the charming market town of Wadhurst – the winner of the Sunday Times best places to live in the UK 2023 – we can tell you that now is the time to explore this part of our beautiful country and there is no better place to start, than at The White Hart pub and restaurant with rooms.
Located at the heart of Wadhurst, less than an hour’s train from London, The White Hart was designed by the owner, Sam Maynard, and his wife, Harriet. The White Hart celebrates its place in the Sussex countryside by supporting local producers, artists and winemakers across its food and drink offering. It is a bit of an institution in the area having been here as a much loved local pub. But after a takeover from the new owners, the doors opened in May 2023 with three beautifully designed boutique bedrooms, perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in this picturesque area of the Weald and discover the wealth of English vineyards that are right on their doorstep. What makes this property even more inviting is the newly launched Chef’s menu – a delicious pairing of local produce and amazing wines. Head Chef, Adam Sear is adventurous but above all he celebrates and elevates local produce.
Sam Maynard, who is here daily with their dog, Todd, is the perfect host to the locals and daily visitors or for travellers, like us, venturing away from London seeking fresh air, delicious food and fantastic wines. His years at the Gallivant and Hotel du Vin were the perfect launch platform for his enthusiastic journey through English wines which he offers to his visitors at the most affordable prices. Boasting one of the largest English Wine Collections in the country, the White Hart’s wine list features over 80 different bottles of sparkling and still wines from across England. We sense that there are more coming and Sam is fantastic at discovering gems and introducing them to his visitors.
The White Hart is offering an English Wine Weekend package priced from £500 per couple. This 2-night stay includes Friday night dinner with paired English Wines. On the Saturday after breakfast, guests can pop into a few local vineyards, or create a bespoke trip to a selection of wineries which Winerist can help you with. After a day out, guests will meet back at The White Hart in the evening for a tailored tasting that explores some of the exciting new wines on the market, accompanied by cheese and charcuterie. Before checking out on Sunday, guests can enjoy a leisurely late brunch with an English Mimosa.
We could not recommend this more! Highlights in the area are Rathfinny, Tickerage and Hush Heath. The beautiful Bewl Water reservoir is a short 15 minute walk and perfect for fishing, water sports and the Bewl Water Aqua Park. This White Hart is also perfect for those travelling with children and four legged friends.
Price B&B doubles from £105
Restaurant from £14.50
