The Crown (JD Wetherspoon), Berkhamsted

Two banks of 6 handpumps, one unfortunately replicating the ale selection of the other. Rebellion Budget Blues & Smuggler, Tring Startop, Rudgate Ruby Mild, Abbot, Ruddles. A smaller, rather more bijou version veering pleasantly away from ‘spoons more usual barn-style. It was nice. Good service from the barman/manager though his full-on style might be perceived as a little overpowering.

It's a small frontage but can hardly be called a small pub, it goes back so far that you think you're in the next county by the time you reach the extent of it's environs. The low ceilings, lack of natural light and a general lack of cleanliness give it a typical dreary JDW feel. There are two staircases that lead from either side of the bar up to the toilets that give a sense of going up to meet the hangman's noose as you ascend them. What this pub really has going for it is the range of beer, there are about 10- 12 hand pumps with some interesting beers and also some from the local Tring Brewery.

Official pages of the Crown - www.jdwetherspoon.co.uk

Official pages of the Crown - www.jdwetherspoon.co.uk