The Crown, Hastings

A smart backstreet pub located in the old part of Hastings, the Crown offers a stylish and welcoming spot for a drink. You enter directly into the main bar area — a bare-boarded space with the servery positioned opposite the entrance. To the front and along the right-hand side, there are high tables and stools set against a drinking ledge, whilst standard tables and chairs run down the left-hand wall, flanking a brick fireplace that was lit on this visit and topped with a simple mirror. The bar itself boasts a smart panelled counter front with a chunky wooden top, whilst the modern, mirrored bar back is lit by a row of low-slung red bulbs and features a crown motif on a central pillar. The room extends further back along the left side, offering plenty more seating, much of which appeared better suited for diners, with some tables reserved. Some outdoor seating is available as well, although I didn’t explore it on this occasion. The beer range featured Lakedown Extra Special (£2.10 a half), Only With Love Koha, and one real cider option, while keg taps included selections from the likes of Pig & Porter, Only With Love and UnBarred. There were no mainstream lagers available, much to the surprise of one punter who, having been asked what he wanted in lieu of the Carling he requested, challenged the bar staff to "surprise me!" I felt this was a little more upmarket, and therefore a little less cosy and comfortable, than a lot of the other old town pubs I checked out on this visit. I still enjoyed my time here and thought the staff were pleasant, the beer decent enough and the atmosphere was livelier than the somewhat formal setting might lead you to expect. Maybe not a top-tier Hastings pub, but I don't think you'd be disappointed if you spent some time here either. Date of visit – 21st December 2024

Some parts of Hastings are undeniably scuzzy, but you can certainly exclude The Crown from that category with its stripped floorboards and art on the walls and window sills. A strong food offering is backed up by 2 local cask ales and a cider, as well as quality keg from the likes of Burning Sky, 3 Legs and Lakedown. It's on the pub side of gastro, so worth looking in, particularly if you want a bite to eat, though if my experience is anything to go by, you may find yourself on your second round before you get to use your cutlery. Despite the delay to the food, the service was fine and I'd have no problem with a repeat visit.

Facebook page of The Crown - www.facebook.com

Facebook page of The Crown - www.facebook.com

Official site of The Crown - www.thecrownhastings.co.uk

Official site of The Crown - www.thecrownhastings.co.uk