Business Details
Contemporary Pub Dining in Lewes
Established as a cornerstone of Lewes' hospitality scene, The Pelham Arms combines culinary innovation with traditional pub culture. Our Boho Baja-inspired menu merges West Coast burgers, Baja tacos, and reimagined pub classics, crafted using premium ingredients sourced from over 15 local suppliers including Bodium Meats and Plumpton Estate. The kitchen operates Wednesday to Sunday, offering both plant-based and gluten-free options alongside signature dishes like smoky wings and churros with molten chocolate. ABYSS Brewing, our in-house craft brewery founded in 2016, now operates a dedicated taproom while continuing to supply exclusive beers available weekly at the pub. With two distinct spaces - the historic pub and modernised dining area - we cater to both casual drinkers and food enthusiasts seeking exceptional quality.Our team maintains strict adherence to food safety standards while preserving the warmth of traditional British hospitality. The Pelham Arms remains committed to sustainable practices through local sourcing and waste reduction initiatives. Visitors can access the venue via multiple transport options including direct bus routes and Lewes train station. The property features accessible parking and designated spaces for disabled guests. Regularly updated menus and seasonal offerings ensure both locals and tourists experience evolving culinary creativity while maintaining our core values of quality and community engagement.
Services
Boho Baja Cuisine
Craft Beer Service
Private Dining
Outdoor Seating
Local Supplier Partnerships
Highlights and features
- We source ingredients from 15+ local suppliers including Bodium Meats and Plumpton Estate
- Our ABYSS Brewing craft beers are exclusive to the The Pelham Arms and local outlets
- We offer dedicated plant-based and gluten-free menus alongside traditional pub fare
- Our kitchen team crafts dishes using smoke, spice and modern culinary techniques
- We maintain accessible facilities including reserved parking for disabled guests
What people say
Amazing food quality
Generous portion sizes
Unique beer selection
Attentive service
Vibrant atmosphere
Services
Boho Baja Cuisine
Our signature Boho Baja menu merges West Coast burgers with Baja-style tacos and reimagined pub classics. Dishes feature smoky undertones and bold spices, with options for omnivores, plant-based diners and gluten-free requirements. Every meal uses locally sourced ingredients from trusted regional producers.
Craft Beer Service
Exclusive ABYSS Brewing craft beers available weekly at the pub. The original brewery, established in 2016, now operates a dedicated taproom while maintaining our partnership. Two rotating brews showcase experimental flavours, with limited availability creating unique tasting opportunities for visitors.
Private Dining
Flexible spaces accommodate private dining and events, combining traditional pub atmosphere with modernised dining areas. Seasonal outdoor seating available, with accessibility features including reserved parking. Menus adapt to group requirements while maintaining our commitment to local sourcing and culinary innovation.
Local Supplier Partnerships
Over 15 local suppliers provide ingredients, including Bodium Meats and Plumpton Estate. This commitment to regional producers ensures ingredient quality while supporting Sussex agriculture. The partnership model maintains consistent supply chains and reduces environmental impact through shorter transportation routes.
Seasonal Menus
Menus evolve with seasonal ingredient availability, featuring special dishes during festive periods. The kitchen team experiments with new flavour combinations while maintaining core favourites. Regular updates ensure returning customers experience fresh culinary creations across multiple visits.
People
Andrew
Landlord & Brewer
Founded ABYSS Brewing in 2016, transforming his home brewing hobby into Lewes' first craft brewery. Manages both the pub's operations and brewery expansion while maintaining hands-on involvement in beer production.
Andy
Brewery Partner
Co-founded ABYSS Brewery with Andrew, bringing art school creativity to craft beer production. Oversees recipe development and brewery operations at the Daveys Lane facility while maintaining quality control for pub offerings.
Questions
What dietary options are available at The The Pelham Arms?
We offer dedicated plant-based and gluten-free menus alongside standard offerings. All dishes can be adapted for specific dietary requirements when notified in advance.
When can I try ABYSS Brewing's latest craft beers?
New ABYSS Brewing releases are available Thursdays at the pub. Limited quantities mean popular brews often sell out quickly, so early visits recommended.
What are the parking options for visitors?
We have 5 reserved spaces at the rear, plus nearby pay-and-display options. Free evening/weekend parking available at East Sussex council office across the road.
Are there transport links to the pub?
Direct bus routes 28/29/29A/29B stop outside. Lewes train station is 15 minutes walk. Bike racks available for cyclists exploring the South Downs.
What sustainability practices do you follow?
Our local supplier network reduces transportation emissions. We prioritise seasonal ingredients and maintain waste reduction initiatives across both kitchen and brewery operations.
Reviews (7)
Ruben Van Alebeek
Jan 13, 2022
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Warm cosy vibes after a long winter stroll on the downs. Mains were fantastic and the cheese board ever so generous! Staff is super friendly and attentive. Highly recommended
Petra Bala
Nov 24, 2021
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I have stumbled upon this place by a sheer coincidence and I couldn't have been more pleased. The staff was very friendly and nice. The pub is extremely cozy with its log fires and lovely beamed ceilings. They have different types of beer on the tap so even a fussed beer lover can find something to their liking. The food was delicious, it was obvious that it's made from good quality products and with care. If I ever happen to be in Lewes again (which I hope so) I will be more than happy to visit The Pelham Arms again.
Wesley Barrett
Nov 21, 2021
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Wanted to leave a quick message to thank everyone working last night. The food, the service, the atmosphere was just incredible. The brisket burger was on another level and my friend James who touted “this is… the best burger in Lewes” wasn’t wrong! The team were all over the service, attentive, observant and couldn’t have done more!🙌
Diane Ransley
Nov 20, 2021
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Popped in on the off chance and luckily they had a table. Lovely welcoming staff and fantastic food. We’ve booked to go back tomorrow!
Fiona Harrison
Sep 14, 2021
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Excellent meal! One of our party said it was the best fish and chips she'd ever had. Very friendly, knowledgeable and efficient service. Worth the slightly extra cost.
Paul Bennett
Sep 14, 2021
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A great pub with great service and really friendly staff. The meat and cheese platter made a great starter to share- all excellent local produce - a good choice of mains (some good stuff on the specials board) all well cooked and good value. There were good veggie options too. We booked a table for 6.15PM and it was already busy so recommend booking. There is free parking at the council offices across the road at weekends.
Carolyn Roberts
Aug 09, 2021
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Excellent! Spoke to Dave to make the booking, food was great, desserts are not to be missed. We chose two and then had half each. We will be back.
