Rose & Crown, Alton

Official site of Rose & Crown - www.roseandcrownfarringdon.co.uk

Official site of Rose & Crown - www.roseandcrownfarringdon.co.uk

Traditional and rustic feeling country pub with a leaning toward the gastro side of things. The flooring was of wood and walls exposed brick with some modernish paintings hanging from them. Despite the foody goings on there is still very much a pubby feel about it and a reasonable beer selection with all five handles with something to offer, Dark Star Hophead, Fullers London Pride, Hogs Back TEA and a brace from Hop Back , Winter Lightening and Red Ember. Another pleasant place out in the sticks.

Situated off the main road in a chocolate box village and surrounded by beautiful countryside (near to Jane Austen’s house, apparently). Quite a quaint, rustic interior (fake ceiling beams, jugs hanging, china display cabinet) with multiple entry points. L-shaped with wood fire, rugby on TV and darts in the main part of the bar. Off to the base of the L is an exposed brick dining room and access to a large grassed rear garden. Noted as child friendly. A strange attempt at art in the gents, with a weird pen sketch of an F1 car and full frontal nudey lady – sack that off, what wally thought it was a good idea? Three ales over five pumps; Doom Bar, TT Landlord and Dark Star Hophead (decent nick). Substandard lemonade made Desmond grumpy, as did being overcharged by the barman (though we did get a fulsome apology and a balance refund once I pointed this out). Nice friendly locals inside who bade us a farewell. Overall, I quite liked it here despite the faults and wouldn’t mind popping in again.