What’s The Horse & Cart Inn like?
This relaxed country pub is just a short drive from the medieval town of Rye. You can expect a warm welcome from the Dutch owners, father and son team Theo and Michael, and excellent home-cooked food to either eat in or take away. Be sure to keep your eyes peeled for Peasmarsh resident Sir Paul McCartney, too.
How dog-friendly is The Horse & Cart Inn?
Really good. Dogs are allowed everywhere downstairs at the pub, from the bar and restaurant to the lavender-filled beer garden. You’ll need to bring your own beds and food but there are treats available behind the bar, as well as water bowls. Staff are also happy to rustle up some doggy sausages in the mornings. There is no additional charge for pets, which is a real bonus. Up to two dogs are welcome per room.
Tell me more about The Horse & Cart Inn
There are four rooms above the pub, two of which are dog-friendly. We stayed in Room No.4 – one of the smallest, but spacious enough for two adults and two small dogs. The room was simply decorated in neutral shades of cream and white but the bed linen and curtains, which had a Orla Kiely-style pattern, added little pops of colour. There was also a desk, a cupboard for storage, complimentary tea and coffee and a fan. This in particular was very welcome as our visit coincided with one of the hottest weeks of the year!
The modern en-suite shower room was great, too. The shower itself was really powerful and complimentary Cole & Lewis toiletries were provided. There were also books and magazines about the nearby town of Rye. Although the room was located at the top of the staircase leading to the pub and garden, we weren’t disturbed by any noise at all. It was nice to see the owners’ cute little nods to Holland dotted around the pub too, such as ceramic windmills and tiny pairs of clogs.
What’s the food like at The Horse & Cart Inn?
Owner Theo has previously worked with the likes of Gordon Ramsay and Gary Rhodes so standards are very high. The pub’s seasonal menu is small but perfectly formed and consists of British classics with a twist. Whether you’re in the mood for fish and chips, a homemade pie or a vegan burger, pictured above, there is sure to be something that tickles your fancy. There is also a separate pizza menu. Make sure you leave room for dessert though as the options – which range from lemon posset to a cheeseboard – are excellent.
Drinks-wise, there are tons of tipples behind the bar and they are also local, where possible. For example, you can enjoy a Hastings Gin or a pint of Horse & Cart Best from the Romney Marsh Brewery. Breakfast is good too, and included in the room rate. While there is no set menu, you can ask for whatever you fancy, from a Full English to poached eggs on toast. Continental options, such as cereals and yoghurts, are also available for guests to enjoy.
Are there resident dogs at The Horse & Cart Inn?
No, but you may well meet some local pooches or other visiting dogs during your stay.
Where are the best dog walks near The Horse & Cart Inn?
We booked to stay at The Horse & Cart because of its proximity to the coast. Camber Sands is approximately a 12-minute drive away and while part of the beach is dog-friendly all year round, walking across the dunes can be hard work. We found Broomhill Sands, pictured above, was a much better – and quieter – option. More importantly, there are no dog restrictions at all. It’s right next to Camber and instead of tackling the sand dunes, you can walk straight out on to the vast sandy beach. You can also park for free by The Kitesurf Centre.
From Peasmarsh, you can walk to the beautiful medieval town of Rye via peaceful woodland and fields. East Sussex County Council recommends this four-mile circular route. Lots of great walks can also be had at Rye Harbour Nature Reserve – one of the largest and most important wildlife sites in England. There are several circular walking trails around the site, ranging from two to six miles in length. You can also walk a bit further out to Winchelsea Beach – and even Camber Sands. To see a map of the reserve, click here.
What Ernie and Stan loved about The Horse & Cart Inn
The fuss from staff, the sausages for breakfast, exploring the lovely garden
What I loved about The Horse & Cart Inn
The simple yet stylish rooms, the delicious food, the friendly staff
How to book The Horse & Cart Inn
Overnight stays start from £70, including breakfast. For more information or to book, call 01797 230094 or visit The Horse & Cart Inn website.
