The Games Barn- Your Own Country Pub
The Games Barn at Merrieweathers is one of spaces guests talk about long after they’ve gone home. It’s relaxed, sociable, and designed for fun, whatever the weather; making it a real highlight for any group stay, celebration weekend or family holiday.
Inside, you’ll find a pool table, table football and poker table, giving everyone something to dip into throughout the day and into the evening. It’s the kind of place people naturally gather whether for a quick game, a bit of friendly competition, or simply to sit and chat with a drink in hand.
A favourite feature is the chance to turn the Games Barn into your own private country pub. Through our special arrangement with Lakedown Brewing Co., guests can order a cask or keg in advnce, which we’ll have set up and ready to pour on your arrival. With beer pumps and in-house optics behind the bar, you can serve up a proper pint of Sussex ale or mix a gin and tonic as the evening rolls on.
Whether it’s a rainy afternoon, a celebratory evening or a relaxed night in with friends and family, the Games Barn brings everyone together in a way that feels easy, sociable, and a bit special: like having your own pub on site, without ever needing to leave the estate.
Outdoor BBQs and Stables Kitchen
The outdoor kitchen in The Stables inner courtyard is a brilliant spot for relaxed, social meals in the open air. Whether you’re cooking with meat from a local butcher or keeping things simple with food from home, it’s an easy place to bring everyone together on a warm day.
There are two brick-built charcoal barbecues for proper outdoor cooking, alongside a gas barbecue for vegetarian options, making it simple to cater for mixed groups. We provide the charcoal, so you can arrive, light the barbecue, and get straight into enjoying yourselves without needing to bring heavy supplies. You’ll also find a sink and granite work surfaces for prepping and serving food, so everything you need is close to hand. If you’d rather not be tied to the grill, you can hire a local caterer to run a barbecue for you, or arrange for salads and sides to be prepared and delivered in advnce, ready and waiting in the kitchen for when you arrive.
With our long teak table, benches and sun loungers nearby, it’s easy to linger over long lunches, lazy afternoons, and laid-back evenings outside.
Table Tennis and Draughts
At the front of the property you’ll find the outdoor table tennis and life-size draughts, perfect for a bit of light-hearted competition. These are always popular with mixed-age groups; great for keeping teenagers entertained, breaking the ice with friends, or just adding a bit of playful energy to the day.
Small fishing lake
Just a short wander from The Stables and the Hayloft, you’ll find our natural lake, a peaceful spot that quickly becomes a favourite place to slow down. It’s a lovely place to sit with a book and enjoy the stillness of the water and the sounds of the countryside around you.
There’s a beautiful old oak tree nearby, which makes a perfect shady spot for a picnic or a lazy afternoon watching the ripples on the lake. If you have any keen anglers in your group with a fishing licence, you’re welcome to bring a rod and bait and try your luck; carp, bream and perch are often spotted here. We kindly ask that all fishing is catch and release.
Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty & Walks from the Door
Merrieweathers sits within an Area Of Outstanding Natural Beauty, so stepping outside means instant access to some of the loveliest walking countryside in East Sussex. Public footpaths and woodland trails begin right from the doorstep, making it easy to head out for a gentle morning wander or a longer, more adventurous walk with the group.
These routes take you through ancient woodland, open fields and quiet streams, with something new to notice in every season, from bluebells in spring to golden leaves and mushrooms in autumn.
For something a little different, guests can also walk to the local winery and distillery at Mousehall, which takes around 45-50 minutes on foot through beautiful countryside. It’s a lovely way to spend an afternoon- stroll there, enjoy a tasting, and wander back feeling like you’ve properly made the most of being away in the country.
Whether you’re here for long walks, slow days outdoors, or just the pleasure of being somewhere peaceful and green for your celebration, the landscape around Merrieweathers makes it easy to leave the car behind and enjoy the area at your own pace.
Optional Extras:
Tennis Court
Tennis court, by arrangement. It’s a lovely way to fit in a relaxed game with friends or family during your stay, whether you’re keen players or just fancy a casual hit about in the fresh air.
Racquets and balls can be provided for a game or two, so there’s no need to bring equipment unless you prefer to.
Outdoor Heated Swimming Pool
July & August, 9 am – 6 pm, by arrangement. Additional cost applies.
