Our Heritage
Heaven's Kitchen at The Squirrel Inn
Embracing Tradition: A Glimpse into the Past of Heaven's Kitchen at The Squirrel Inn, Hurtmore.
Nestled in the heart of Hurtmore, HK at The Squirrel Inn is an establishment deeply rooted in history, committed to preserving the timeless charm of the quintessential British pub. As new custodians of this beloved inn, we proudly look back on its journey through time.
Our Beginnings
A Glimpse into the Past
The story of Heaven's Kitchen at The Squirrel Inn begins long before our time, with records dating back to the late 19th century. After a brief hiatus, the inn reemerged in 1938, this time as a cherished beer-house, where Norman Paine welcomed patrons to share good times and camaraderie.
But the roots run deeper. Our historical records reveal that The Squirrel Inn was already a cherished establishment before 1869. Charlotte Edgeler was the licensee of this beloved inn, and it was proudly owned by Bruford's Cranleigh Steam Brewery. This legacy continued with James Edgeler, a respected beer retailer in Hurtmore, listed in Kelly's 1885 directory. The spirit of the inn lived on when Mrs. Edgeler's name graced the directory in 1889.
In the 1980s, The Squirrel Inn briefly underwent a transformation into the Alpine Tavern, an experiment met with universal derision. Fortunately, the soul of the inn remained intact, and later, the adjacent 18th-century cottages were thoughtfully converted into comfortable accommodation, providing a cozy retreat for visitors.
Our Commitment
A Mysterious Disappearance and New Beginnings
More recently, Heaven's Kitchen at The Squirrel Inn became the centre of speculation when the popular and gregarious licensee, Nigel Wilkes, mysteriously vanished one day, leaving a void in the Hurtmore community.
Now, under new management, we embark on a journey to uphold the traditional British feel that has defined The Squirrel Inn for generations. We honor its rich history, ensuring that the warmth, camaraderie, and timeless traditions of a true British pub remain at the heart of what we offer.
As we open our doors to welcome you, we invite you to share in the legacy of Heaven's Kitchen at The Squirrel Inn and be part of its ongoing story, where history and tradition meet the present with a warm embrace. Join us in celebrating the spirit of this quintessential British pub, where friendships are forged, stories are told, and the sense of community endures.
Welcome to Heaven's Kitchen at The Squirrel Inn, where the past and the present converge in the true spirit of British hospitality.