This cliff-top inn developed out of a Bede House, one of a number of follies built by the eccentric Lord Holland on his Kingsgate estate between 1763 and 1768. It was used by Holland as a "House of Entertainment .... a Bibitory recess for men and horses" .The pub is mentioned in the August 1787 issue of the European Magazine "..... a public house created by Lord Holland, which had for its sign the head of Captain Digby". The pub is named after Holland's favourite nephew Robert Digby, who had a long distinguished naval career. Disaster struck in 1809 when erosion to the cliff caused part of the inn to fall into the sea. The pub was rebuilt by 1816 and is said to include a wing of the original. Today the pub is essentially the 1816 structure despite several enhancements such as a restaurant area added in 1973 and a children’s play area.