Take a look inside the newly renovated White Hart hotel

The White Hart hotel in Lewes has reopened its doors after a multi-million pound refurbishment.

Guests were greeted by Thomas Paine and other local characters from the past (Image: Supplied) The White Hart, which dates back to the 18th century, was once a coaching inn and frequented by the philosopher Thomas Paine and his acquaintances in the Headstrong Club. The hotel has since become known as “the cradle of American Independence”.

It closed in November 2023 after being bought by the Heartwood Collection. The new owners have been working to restore the venue since.

The hotel dates back to the 18th century and was once a coaching inn (Image: Heartwood Collection) The hotel, which has 23 rooms, has been transformed with wooden panels at the front of the building and a new dining room plus a terrace at the rear.

It reopened on October 1 accompanied by "glorious fanfare". On arrival guests were greeted by “Thomas Paine”. Interacting with “William Verrall”, one of the inn’s original publicans, and other local characters, guests enjoyed a tasting from a specially brewed cask of Tom Paine ale from family-owned Harvey’s brewery, 18th century music, calligraphy and more.

The hotel has 23 boutique rooms (Image: Heartwood Collection) Local clockmakers and restoration experts W F Bruce helped to unveil the newly repaired and restored Holman Parliamentary clock which takes pride of place in the bar. The opening concluded with the pub being officially opened by the Mayor of Lewes, Imogen Makepeace.