About The Oak Inn

The attractive timber framed building was first recorded as an inn in 1625. The Wealden Buildings Study Group believe it to have had a "smoke hood" or timber framed chimney before the brick chimney was built. This makes it one of 10 houses in Ardingly that come in the transitional period between open halls and full scale brick or stone built chimneys. They all date from around 1600 which was a time of prosperity in the area due to the thriving iron industry. Many of the old timbers are still on view in the two bars as is the fireplace below the old smoke hood.

The cosy lounge bar retains the inglenook fireplace (below the brick chimney) and many original features. There is a village bar with pool table and television. The separate Acorn Room seats 16 and is ideal for small parties and families. Our comfortable restaurant (pictured left) holds up to 40 diners and has big picture windows looking out on to the garden. It is also a mini art gallery housing a collection of paintings by talented local artist Chris West.

The garden catches the sun (when there is any!) for most of the day.There is plenty of seating for those who enjoy the fresh air and a slide and swings for the children.