Old Boot Inn Pub & Restaurant — Restaurant in Lewes

A Hidden Gem You’d Almost Walk Past – The Old Boot

We were recently recommended to try The Old Boot, and what a hidden gem it turned out to be!

Only a six-minute walk away, but we nearly missed it completely. The signage outside is faded and incomplete, and with two external doors (neither of which scream “welcome”), you wouldn’t guess this was a thriving, busy pub. Had we not spotted people inside through the window, we might have assumed it was closed down.

But once inside, everything changes.

The pub opens up into a spacious, welcoming venue with a large seating area and a great atmosphere. There’s also plenty of outdoor seating for sunnier days. It’s more than you’d ever expect—or want—from a traditional pub.

The real ale selection is superb, with six pumps offering a wide variety, including a beautifully kept Harveys. Every pint we had was crisp, clean, and spot-on.

I ordered from the blackboard menu, which featured two homemade soups. The mushroom and cheddar was exceptional—packed full of flavour and clearly made with care. We also had the lasagne, which was obviously homemade and full of heart. The food overall was fantastic.

Despite the pub being busy, the staff were friendly, relaxed, and clearly enjoyed what they were doing. The service was warm and efficient without anyone looking rushed.

All in all, The Old Boot is a real find—rough around the edges on the outside, but full of charm, quality, and character once you’re in. Definitely...

Don't look at the front from the street it's awful!! Go in by the side or the rear through it's seated outside space

A really busy pub from days of Olde - nothing fussy inside but lots of tables and space

But really you go for the beer and food neither of which disappoints. I counted five real ales on offer and settled with the Harveys. Well Harvey's Brewery is only 10 miles away and travels well. It was perfectly cellared and served.

Food is a high spot here and appreciated all the extra staff to service tables with delivery of food. Everything looked fabulous but my pick is the Seafood Special at £12.95 just superb on the "Specials" chalkboard.

Beer is cheaper than its Brighton neighbour as is food. Seaford is delivering an attack on the cost of living which is another reason to go and enjoy.

Sitting outside on a hot hot day with fabulous food and Harvey's Ale - what more...

Great pub! Visited this afternoon by chance as we were planning to go elsewhere but changed our minds and thought we'd call in here. We sat outside as the sun was out for a change, pub was busy but we got a table in the sunshine. I ordered a jacket with chilli con carne and coleslaw, it was very good! Large portions and really was very well made. Mrs had a sausage and onion baguette which came with chips and salad, she was equally as happy with her choice. Pub is dog friendly so we took ours into the garden with us 😊 Staff were friendly and attentive, young lad with northern accent (maybe Geordie) was very good as was the girl on the bar. So glad we found this place, will definitely be back. If in the area I recommend...