SHEPHERD NEAME TENANTED PUB OF THE YEAR 2011
Smugglers, tunnels and tales of ghosts permeate the atmosphere of this Hastings old town pub. An 18th century smuggling haunt, tucked away in the back streets, the Hasting Arms is a warm and welcoming retreat, with scrubbed pine tables and wooden floors and walls festooned with grand mirrors and fishing nets.
Good home-made food and a wide range of Kentish Ales are on offer daily, spiced up each Tuesday by the pub’s famous curry nights. A diverse crowd attend the Monday blues nights and Wednesday open mic session for professional musicians, even drawing famous visitors such as Jamie Oliver and Erasure’s Andy Bell.
And for those who prefer spirits, there are occasional sightings of ghosts supping ale at the bar and a forlorn lost soul floating by in her wedding dress.