Tuesday 26 March 2019

Jevington


The Eight Bells

The picturesque village of Jevington in East Sussex is situated in the South Downs now far from the seaside town of Eastbourne. The village sits in a quiet valley surrounded by the rolling hills of the South Downs and is accessible by road from Polegate or Friston. Alternatively Jevington can be reached by walkers either using the South Downs Way or from Butts Brow in Eastbourne. 

 Jevington has a long history. On the nearby hills are many Neolithic Barrows and evidence of a settlement near the village. St Andrew's church was built about 900AD and the tower used as refuge for villagers during viking raids. In 1344 a Monastery dedicated to St Lewinna was built in the village but was dissolved in 1538. 

At the centre of the village sits the Eight Bells, a traditional country pub over 300 years old. This welcoming pub serves excellent food, either beside the roaring log fire or in the pretty beer garden overlooking the beautiful countryside. In the 1780's the innkeeper of the pub, James Petit was a known smuggler (Jevington Jig) and gang leader. Contraband was offloaded at Birling Gap and Crowlink before being stored in the cellars at the inn and the rectory. It is said that several secret passages ran from the Inn in addition to other passages and hiding places in the village. In 1799 James was convicted of horse thieving and transported. 



Approaching Jevington From The South Downs


View From The Beer Garden At The Eight Bells

St Andrew's Church
St Andrew's Church dates from about 900AD. The Saxon tower was used by villagers during viking raids on the village.  Restoration alterations were undertaken from the 11th to 15th centuries including a 14th century font and windows. Further restoration work was undertaken in then 19th century and repairs to the tower have continued. 

St Andrew's Church




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