The Inkerman Arms in Rye Harbour, closed since 2021, is reopening its doors this week under the new management of Diane Rees and family.
Pubs called The Inkerman get their name from the historic Battle of Inkerman, a major and bloody conflict fought during the Crimean War on 5 November 1854.
Diane Rees explains how she came to take on the task of running the pub
I was living in Rye last year and looking for a hospitality business when I noticed that the Inkerman Arms was available. I’ve always loved Rye Harbour and I have spent time there walking, so the opportunity immediately caught my attention.
It will be quite a challenge – are you up for it?
I enjoy a challenge, and both of my sons were enthusiastic about the idea from the start. We began renovating the Inkerman Arms in late February this year, and it has been a real family effort. I have previous experience working in pubs, along with chef training and a strong all-round hospitality background. My eldest son and his girlfriend also have hospitality experience, while my youngest son is keen to learn and has great potential.
Have the local community been encouraging and supportive?
We genuinely believe we will make a strong team. The pub has been closed since Covid, and the support from the local community has been fantastic. Residents have been incredibly welcoming and are pleased to see the pub reopening. We are excited to be bringing the Inkerman Arms back to life and look forward to welcoming everyone through the doors.
What sort of food will you be serving?
We will be serving locally sourced fresh produce.
Are you affiliated to a particular brewery or are you free to bring in the ales and lagers that best serve the locals and the Inkerman?
The Inkerman arms is a Free House and we will be serving a good range of beers and meeting the needs of the local community and visitors to the area.
The Inkerman Arms is on Rye Harbour Road, Rye Harbour, Rye TN31 7TQ and opens on Saturday 13 June at 2pm.
Image Credits: Kt bruce .