It's to be applauded when a pub  is given a bit of TLC but I couldn't work out how far through its refurb The Crown was when I stopped by.

Judging by the scaffolding outside, it looked liked the work was in full flow but there was zero sign of disruption inside.

It looked done to me.

Maybe it was freshly made-up but if that’s the case it is remarkable there were no signs of the new decor bedding in.

To say this pub was clean is a gigantic understatement – the odour of furniture polish and brasso hit you as you walked in and the pumps actually gleamed.

While the staff were all involved in scrubbing and buffing when we popped in, we were still treated to a warm welcome and a spot of friendly chit chat.

Light, airy and spacious, The Crown is a nice pub in which to take the weight off your feet. The booths by the window are comfy and if you angle yourself slightly there’s a pretty view over the common.

Its gentle green walls, high ceilings and posh lighting fixtures all add up to a sense of refinement that doesn’t teeter too far.

Similarly the menu is full of good stuff but just flirts with OTT with the likes of the venison burger which, naturally, we ordered.

It didn’t come cheap (£10.95) but it’s impossible fault the lusciousness that arrived on the plate.

As with most Shepherd Neame pubs these days, the selection of booze if quite pleasing – Spitfire, Oranjeboom and Whitstable Bay among the tipples.



The Crown Inn, School Road, Chislehurst

How it rated:

Decor ***** Immaculate
Atmosphere **** laid back
Food **** Tasty
Drink **** Good selection
Price *** Just about reasonable
Staff ***** Couldn’t be friendlier