The Crown Tavern, Clerkenwell, EC1

A traditional looking, street corner pub located in the peace and quiet of Clerkenwell Green but only a short stroll from Farringdon Station, it includes a number of picnic benches outside which was a popular spot on our recent Sunday afternoon visit. Internally it’s largely all one open plan room, although with a smaller room off to the side. Décor wise it’s quite traditional with a dark polished wood floor, green paintwork and some partitions with etched glass inserts. A number of brewery mirrors were on the wall, as well as several old black and white pictures of ballet performers, and I assume these were related to the old music hall that shared the site at one time. The large glass windows let in plenty of light and these two include some decorative etching around the perimeter. The usual exposed filament light bulbs were in use, although at least they had made a bit more effort by encasing them in some unusual wooden lamp shades that looked a little like an old packing crate. Beers on tap were Doom Bar, Timothy Taylor Landlord, Wainwright Golden and X-Panda IPA. The solitary cider meanwhile was a rather disappointing Aspall’s.

In the spirit of fair assessment I looked in again when I was back in the area and two of the four pumps were in action; both the Timothy Taylors and the Adnams were in good condition. Wasn't eating but the food served to a nearby table looked good in both quality and portion. Huge windows provide a light, airy feel in the afternoon. 30 November 2006 Went in yesterday lunchtime. Four handpumps, no beer. What's the point?

A pleasant corner pub with a boarded L-shaped main room with a corner bar, there is also a smaller side room which has lots of stuff in frames of interest. There is a nice bar back and corner gantry with a feature clock. There are a few etched glass screens, fairly regular seating as well as a drinking shelf. There is also seating al fresco on Clerkenwell Green. Small vases of flowers on the tables are a softening touch while a few games on a side piece of furniture suggest that punters settle in for a period rather than grab one and go. Five handpumps, Landlord, Doom Bar but also Portabello Bronze Star (£4.45) about par for the area. One reversed (an Inveramond brew) with the other not clipped. Upstairs are The Apollo Rooms, noted elsewhere as being function rooms however I'm sure I spotted a sign offering accommodation. Quite a nice spot with a decent if a bit expensive pint.

Rather trendy almost cosmopolitan food & drink house with the comfort of a large tabled pavement on Clerkenwell Green. Just far enough away from crowds to feel relaxed. Inside has big sofas and a back area. 5 beers of ok quality, its an all round good effort, just needs more staff.