7 of Sussex's oldest pubs and their fascinating history

The county boasts an impressive collection of establishments that transport you back in time, and provide a decent pint for the journey.

The Mermaid Inn, Rye

The Mermaid Inn in Rye dates back to 1156, although the building was rebuilt in 1420 after being burnt down. It is believed to have been used by the notorious Hawkhurst Gang in the 18th century, evidenced by the smuggling tunnels that lie beneath.

Other echoes of history are etched into the pub's walls, such as markings from Catholic Priests who fled during the Reformation.

I stayed in Sussex's most haunted inn The Mermaid Inn

The Old Bell, Rye

The Old Bell in Rye is a Grade II listed building, built in 1390. The pub is characterised by its original stone entrance and bell above the door, amplifying its aged atmosphere.

It was also used for smuggling by the Hawkhurst Gang, with secret tunnels connecting both this pub and the Mermaid Inn.

The Cricketers, Brighton

The Cricketers dates back to 1547, and is famous for one of its grisly visitors. Jack the Ripper suspect Robert Donston Stephenson is believed to have stayed in the Greene Room and planned his murders from the pub itself.

The pub has even collated its own Jack the Ripper display of evidence linking him to the establishment which is on display.

The George and Dragon, Houghton

As well as being one of the three oldest pubs in Sussex, at almost 750 years old, it is believed that The George and Dragon hosted a royal visitor.

King Charles II is said to have visited the pub when fleeing the country after being defeated in the Battle of Worcester.

The Dorset Arms, Lewes

The Dorset Arms was built in 1670 on the site of an illegal workplace, parts of which still remain and make up rooms of the pub.

The pub is close to Lewes’ Norman castle, making for the perfect historical trip.

The Marlborough Pub and Theatre, Brighton

The Marlborough Pub and Theatre began in 1787 as an inn called The Golden Cross. This establishment possesses a mysterious and gruesome history, saturated with tales of secret passageways, murder, and hauntings.

In 1900, the pub was the scene of the murder of Lucy Packham, the wife of the landlord. The husband was convicted of manslaughter, and it is rumoured that the ghost of Lucy Packham continues to haunt the establishment.

The Corner House, Worthing

Previously known as The Anchor in 1805, this pub was frequently used as a venue for coroner's inquests.

Most famously, the inquest of William Cowers was held here after he was shot by coastguards in 1832. The building was rebuilt in the 1890s.