The Crown Inn

Dating back to 1585, in the 18th century this charming free house was the infamous headquarters for a gang of smugglers. They hid their casks of tea in the passages between the cellar and Groombridge Place, which was later home to Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, who made The Crown his local. Today, its low beams and an inglenook fireplace are the setting for some great food and drink. Favourites include home-made pies, battered haddock, Cumberland sausage and mash, breaded scampi, and daily specials based on fresh local produce. Eat alfresco during the summer months.