The Cat Inn

A timber-framed and tile-hung dining pub-with-rooms in a hilltop High Weald village is the veritable cat’s whiskers, say many of our readers. ‘This really is something special,’ affirms a Guide trusty. Owner Andrew Russell held a senior role at Gravetye Manor, East Grinstead (see entry), and is ‘a consummate host who rightly deserves all the awards he has received’. The bedrooms are fairly simple, in keeping with the pub ethos, with good fabrics, an espresso machine, fresh milk, Bramley toiletries. A split-level suite has a separate seating area. On cold days log fires burn in the inglenooks in the beamed 16th-century bar, which serves real ale and English sparkling wine. You can eat here with your dog, in the dining room or, in warm weather, on the terrace. Alex Jacquemin cooks superior pub grub with produce from The Cat’s own market garden. Typical dishes might include Brighton day-boat plaice, marinated heritage cherry tomatoes, basil and almond pesto, or wild mushroom and truffle tart. ‘Our fifth time here. Staff are terrific.’ ‘After an excellent lunch we decided to stay for a few days. Fabulous!’ (Chris and Erika Savory, ER, SR, and others)