The Pilot Inn
89 Meads Street, Eastbourne · Hotel
View on Google MapsPhoto: The Pilot Inn / Google Maps
A pub-hotel in Eastbourne's Meads Village, close to the South Downs National Park, known for generous Sunday roasts and spotless rooms.
About The Pilot Inn
Meads Village sits on the quieter edge of Eastbourne, within easy reach of the South Downs National Park, and it's here that The Pilot Inn combines a traditional pub with comfortable overnight rooms. It's a good base for anyone keen to explore the surrounding countryside without giving up the comforts of a proper bar and kitchen downstairs.
Rooms come with en-suite bathrooms and are kept to a high standard of cleanliness, with drinks available in-room and free WiFi throughout. Breakfast is included, and the restaurant is the property's strongest suit, with a Sunday roast and pork belly that have built a loyal following, served in generous portions by staff who are consistently friendly and attentive. There's a garden and outdoor seating for warmer days, plus a bar for evening drinks, and free on-site parking makes arriving by car straightforward.
Beyond the inn itself, the area offers walking and cycling routes into the Downs, golf and fishing nearby, and further pubs and restaurants within easy distance for anyone wanting to explore Meads Village further. It's a welcoming, well-run stop for guests who want good food and a comfortable bed close to the South Downs.
Reception hours
- Monday
- 12:00 – 11:00 PM
- Tuesday
- 12:00 – 11:00 PM
- Wednesday
- 12:00 – 11:00 PM
- Thursday
- 12:00 – 11:00 PM
- Friday
- 12:00 – 11:00 PM
- Saturday
- 12:00 – 11:00 PM
- Sunday
- 12:00 – 8:00 PM
Current hours may differ from the usual schedule above (e.g. holidays) — check Google Maps for today's hours.
What guests say
A lovely cosy pub! Staff here are super friendly with a lovely atmosphere. Been here a few times and it’s always been a nice place to eat. The pasta ragu picture below looks like a small portion but it’s just right if you’re not too hungry. Steak was cooked just right! Located just off the main road near the start of the hill climb.
2 months ago · via Google
One of the best Sunday Roasts I've ever had and the local beer was lush! Staff has been lovely, friendly and very professional. I booked through their website, which was very easy to do, and they replied right away. They were also very flexible when it came to change the time of my reservation and they replied promptly. He pub itself is stunning and cosy. Definitely a place to remember! x
3 months ago · via Google
Excellent pub .Warm and friendly staff .. lots of seating areas inside and out. Dog friendly. Excellent food. Reasonably priced. A Free car park for patrons.Had lunch there for the first time today.. In a pretty residential area .. would seriously consider if looking for somewhere to stay in the area.
2 weeks ago · via Google
Atmosphere was pleasant , layout nice . That’s as far as we got I am afraid. I was there with three of my grandchildren and their parents. Sunday lunch after the all England dance finals where one of my granddaughter got gold. We were going to toast here so I ordered a bottle of Brut laurent Perrier and soft drinks for the three girls .. the waiter who took my order brought a bottle of Rose laurent Perrier already opened I said we ordered Brut. Let me state I am retired was in the food business and for a number of years was sole representative of Taitinger Champagne in my country. Besides which I collect vintage wines.. It’s a pity the waiter has no training and possible little experience. When we arrived I asked what Bubbly they had on the menu he didn't know what bubbly was and when my daughter said they must have Prosecco the waiter said “ o yes we have plenty of Prosecco” in any case the waiter took the Rose away but insisting I ordered the rose. Another young lady arrived saying there seems to be some confusion I said no we ordered brut and she said fine and went away . Then what I presume is the manager arrived and again said the waiter insists we ordered rose at which point I explained to her that I had been in the food and beverage industry for many years and was not likely to order what we didn't want to drink . Needless to say we were asked to leave which we did. The moral for me is two fold one waiters need to be better trained in addition when ordering an expensive bottle, the bottle should be brought to the table to confirm if this is what was requested and avoid and confusion. Had that been done which I believe is standard practice the problem could have been avoided and an unpleasant situation along with it. What ever happened to the customer is always right, belongs to bygone years I suppose . Pity. 🤷🏽 Read less
3 weeks ago · via Google
Diners like this pub's delicious food, especially the Sunday roast and pork belly, and appreciate the generous portions. They also highlight the warm, welcoming, and charming atmosphere, as well as the friendly and attentive staff. Visitors mention the spotless and well-equipped rooms, along with convenient parking.
Summary via Google
At a glance
- Address
- The Pilot, 89 Meads Street, Eastbourne, BN20 7RW Get directions
- Property type
- Hotel
- Location
- 89 Meads Street, Eastbourne
- Good for groups
- Yes
- Booking required
- Yes
- Destination
- Eastbourne