The Rose & Crown, Stoke Newington, N16

This is a classic old Truman’s pub, with much of the signage still in place. It’s on the CAMRA London Inventory of pubs with historic interior features - this one has loads of inter - war features, including the original bar counter, wood panelling on the walls and Truman's trademark Vitrolite paneled ceiling. It's been largely opened up like so many pubs of this era, but the original layout can be discerned from the positioning of the doors (several unused now of course), and the vestiges of the original screenwork, some still bearing the original Trumans beer signage. The flagstone floor is a more modern addition, but quite attractive nonetheless, and furnishings are standard tables and chairs. All quite reassuringly pub-like I would say. I saw a sign advertising "boutique accommodation", and while I was sitting in the bar a couple walked in to check in. Rather appropriately, one of the ales on was Truman's Swift. The others were Deuchars IPA, Sharp's Tribute, and Rose & Crown N16 (£1.80 a half), brewed by Caledonian I was told. Wine lists were on all the tables, as well as single-page laminated menus. Main courses are mainly pub grub, at around £8 - £10. I like this pub - but I always seem to like pubs with original features. The ale selection is OK, and the food looks reasonable although I didn't sample it. I would happily visit this one for another drink sometime.