The Old Bell, Oxted

This is a 15th century building with claims to have been a manor house at one time although the bit that sticks out from the side towards the car park looks a lot more recent. The oldest building in Old Oxted village, the pub looks the part with the first floor jettied out over the street below and the small leaded windows.. Internally it is a rambling place with numerous areas, nooks and crannies. A feel of history with the very low black and white beamed ceiling and occasional timber posts however to a degree spoiled by the usual Spirit Group faux chalk boards everywhere and a couple of fruit and other gaming machines. The floor is tiled around the entrance and immediate bar area, carpeted with different patterned carpets elsewhere. Traditional seating, I didn't see any high tables or sofas. Various pots, old jugs, brass and copper things hang from beams, plus the usual routine old photos of the local area. A pretty standard ale selection of Adnams Bitter, London Pride or GK IPA. I opted for the Adnams but it had to go back, having a funny taste despite being clear and lively. I suspected line cleaner but the Rodney Trotter lookalike barman was a bit sniffy, but this was soon overcome with a bit of persistence. The replacement Pride was ok if a bit cold. The bar has signs proclaiming that they are happy to top up pints. Surely it is better to train the staff to fill the glasses properly in the first place?