Business Details
Your Country Restaurant Experience in Normans Bay
Established in 1402, The Star Inn stands as a historic country restaurant nestled in Normans Bay. Originally a sluice house, our venue transformed into a coaching inn during the Civil War era, witnessing centuries of rich history including 18th-century smuggling battles documented in local archives. Our heritage is preserved through original architectural features while offering modern British cuisine crafted from seasonal, locally sourced ingredients. The restaurants unique character combines historic charm with contemporary comforts, including a riverside garden and adaptable event spaces for private functions. With over six centuries of continuous operation, we pride ourselves on delivering exceptional dining experiences rooted in tradition yet tailored to modern tastes.Our team of culinary experts specialises in creating menus that reflect regional flavours, from classic roasts to innovative seafood dishes, all prepared using time-honoured techniques. As custodians of this historic site, we maintain rigorous standards of service excellence, evidenced by our consistent customer satisfaction ratings and reputation as a destination dining venue. Our commitment to quality extends to ingredient traceability, kitchen hygiene certifications, and sustainable sourcing practices that align with industry best practices.
Services
Restaurant
Christmas Menus
VIP SMS Offers
Historic Venue Tours
Riverside Dining
Highlights and features
- We offer dining in a 620-year-old historic building with protected status
- Our menus feature locally sourced ingredients from East Sussex producers
- We provide Christmas event hosting in our original Tudor-style function space
- Our riverside garden offers scenic outdoor dining from April to October
- We maintain consistent 4.5+ star customer ratings across all review platforms
What people say
Exceptional history
Scenic riverside
Generous portions
Attentive staff
Authentic atmosphere
Services
Restaurant Dining
Our historic restaurant serves seasonal British cuisine using locally sourced ingredients. The menu features traditional roasts, fresh seafood, and modern interpretations of classic dishes. Guests enjoy meals in period-decorated dining rooms or our riverside garden during warmer months.
Christmas Events
We host Christmas celebrations with specially curated menus and decorated spaces. The venue accommodates private parties with traditional festive meals and event coordination services. Bookings open annually in December for the following year's celebrations.
VIP SMS Offers
Registered members receive priority booking and special offers via text message. The loyalty program provides early access to seasonal promotions and limited-time dining experiences. Subscribers gain entry to exclusive tasting events and themed dinners.
Riverside Dining
Our riverside garden offers al fresco dining from April to October. The space features seasonal heating for cooler evenings and sheltered areas for unpredictable weather. Guests enjoy views of Wallers Haven river while dining on specially adapted outdoor menus.
Historic Venue Tours
Guided tours explore the building's 620-year history including smuggling connections and architectural evolution. Visitors learn about the sluice house origins and Civil War-era transformations. The tour includes access to restricted historical areas not visible during regular dining visits.
Questions
Can I book a table at The Star Inn?
Yes, reservations are available through our website or by calling (01323) 762648. We recommend booking weekends at least two weeks in advance.
Are children welcome at the restaurant?
Yes, we have a dedicated children's menu and high chairs available. The garden provides space for children to move around during meal times.
Do you offer vegetarian or vegan options?
Yes, our menu includes multiple vegetarian and vegan dishes including the Mediterranean Vegan Tart and vegetable korma options.
Is parking available at the venue?
We have limited on-site parking. Additional free parking is available at Normans Bay Station car park 200 meters from the restaurant.
Can I visit just for drinks?
Yes, our bar serves drinks daily with last orders at 21:30. The bar menu includes local ales, wines, and seasonal cocktails.
Are dogs allowed on the premises?
Well-behaved dogs are welcome in the bar area and garden with water bowls and treat packs available upon request.
Reviews (4)
Owen Thomas
Jan 24, 2022
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*Visited in July 2021*
The Star Inn has always had excellent food. The Roast was really tasty and the Dessert was excellent too . I'm hoping to go back very soon as the food is fantastic - excellent value too. The Roast is a Children's Portion.
The Star Inn has always had excellent food. The Roast was really tasty and the Dessert was excellent too . I'm hoping to go back very soon as the food is fantastic - excellent value too. The Roast is a Children's Portion.
Lynne Wilkinson
Jan 20, 2022
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We brought my 82 year old dad for a birthday meal. He really enjoyed his meal, as did my vegan daughter in law. Good food, lots of choice and great value. We would definitely visit again. Even the toddlers were happy!
Julianne Smithers
Jan 09, 2022
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A* service A* food A*everything! Absolutely loved the food, the waitresses were friendly and the service they provided was nothing but the best. Prices are excellent, will definitely be coming back, thank you!
Piet Joul
Jan 06, 2022
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Great selection on Boxing day when we attended. More expensive than the normal menu but fully understandable because of the holiday period. Good service and very friendly aswell... All in all I would happily go back...
P.S. if it has been raining do not wash your car before your visit, it is a very narrow road with a good deal of mud and puddles in this weather...
P.S. if it has been raining do not wash your car before your visit, it is a very narrow road with a good deal of mud and puddles in this weather...
