Bell Inn, Outwood

Dating from 1635, this well-beamed Fuller's tenancy was previously a coaching stop on the route from London to Brighton, and the former stables now house the pub's toilets. Until a few years ago there was a hanging tree in the garden that was reputedly used for dispatching witches! The bell from which the pub takes its name is displayed by the front door. It is said to have been made from melted down ships' cannons from the time of Charles II and weighs around a quarter of a ton. Fuller's bought the pub in the autumn of 2004 and sympathetically refurbished it, opening out a fine inglenook fireplace which now boasts a cosy log fire. The bar area has wooden floors covered in rugs and solid wooden tables throughout. Although the emphasis is definitely on food, with a restaurant area at the side, the Bell provides a welcoming stop for drinkers also and dogs are very welcome. Although there is only one bar, there are a number of separate drinking and dining areas. The guest beer is likely to be a Fuller's, Gales or Dark Star beer. Outside the back door is a covered area with lighting for the use of smokers.