History of The Kings Arms

The Kings Arms is a Grade 2 listed building. Built in circa 1560 some of the oak beams are still from the days when the pub was called the Red Lion and was a vital watering hole for coach men and horses alike on the main London to Bognor Road (Stane Street).

The pub appears in many history books:

From Billingshurst and Wisborough Green by Wendy Lines:

The Intrepid canal boating author J.B.Dashwood was quoted in 1868 whilst stopping off  with his wife and dog.

"We found Billingshurst a charming little place with a neat little Inn by yhe name of The KIngs Arms. Having secured our rooms and changed our attire, we had the gratification of sitting down to as good a dinner as, I believe it is  possible to get in a quiet country village! Fresh eggs, butter, fruit, cream, all excellent, and mutton chops done to a turn  with excellent beer and a very fair sherry."

"Next morning the Inn was in a bustle by 5. Hot and cold water for shaving and baths to any amount and boots polished like mirrors.The breakfast a capital one, our little table was filled with cold meat, eggs, toast and coffee at our given hour of 5.45."

Not much has changed in 140 years??????

Judy Middletons' Haunted Places of Sussex tells a more eerie tale!

"As a coaching Inn it is only fitting that a Coachman should haunt it. On a cold February night circa 1800 the Coachman had imbibed rather too much good ale and was unsteady on his feet. As he went to make his final check on the horses before turning in he stumbled across the yard missed his footing and fell down the well. It is said that it is exceptionally deep and his body was never recovered."

The Well ( as pictured on the home page )is still there if you dare take a peek!

And believe it or not we appeared in Hello Magazine in July 2000.

HUGH GRANT who had the sampled the Arms during the World Cup win over Germany had this to say:

"God what a fantastic night I had! I was in this fabulous pub with a great bunch of people and got quite drunk. I joyously rushed around hugging everyone when we won. It was a great experience!