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The
Inn, built in 1511, is in the hamlet of John's Cross, whose
origin dated back to the fact that it was a marshalling point
for Crusaders under the banner of John the Baptist, whose emblem
is incorporated in the Inn's sign. The earliest recorded occupant
was one Edmund Spicer in 1562. Sometime following this period,
ale was brewed on the premises and in July 1694 a transaction
was completed when the property was signed over to William Piper,
a beer retailer of the parish of Battle.
In
1792 the Inn was extended (now the games room). During the Napoleonic
Wars it was used as a recruiting office, and later during the
same wars the widows and orphans of the parish were given shelter
at the Inn. For many years it was used as a Custom & Exise
office, and a collection point for the Mail Coaches.
On
the 12th of August 1906, it was visited by Robert Tressell (Noonan),
author of "The Ragged Trousered Philanthropists" and
it has been confirmed by Dr. Trevor Hopper in his book that
the Inn was the destination for "The Beano", referred
to in his book. By coincidence, the function took place in the
"Host Hall" (function hall), now the sign studio of
Bob, the landlady's husband; Tressell by trade was a decorator
and signwriter.
In
March 1992, the Inn was acquired by the present owners, Sandie
and Bob Russell. The Inn has seen many changes over the centuries,
and today offers the same traditional values of its origin.
A place of companionship and friendship for local residents
and weary travellers, in an unspoilt and original environment.
The
Inn offers a broad range of home cooked wholesome fayre, and
real ales, which in summer can be enjoyed in the vast beer gardens
with panoramic views over the heavily wooded Sussex countryside.
In winter guests prefer to dine around the blazing log fire
of the lounge bar, and some enjoy their winter ale 'mulled'
by the landlord using a red hot poker. Small parties often enjoy
the cosiness of "The Smallest Dining Room in John's Cross"
(which houses the original bread oven). It is believed to be
the smallest pub dining room in the country (confirmation awaited
from the Guinness Book of Records).
The
following photograph shows the fireplace in the lounge bar.
All
Landscapes, Country Scenes and Trompe l'oeil have been undertaken
by Bob (for further information, please enquire at the bar or
the Studio, located at the rear of the Inn).
The
Inn is family owned and run, and families are more than welcome,
as are coach parties, by arrangement.
If
on a cold winter's eve a door opens and there's nobody there,
or your glass moves across the table, don't worry, it's only
Horace playing his games! - Our resident "ghost" inherited
with the Inn.
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