The Crown Inn, Chislehurst

Attractive Shepherd Neame pub in the middle of Chislehurst Common, with plenty of window space (although the surrounding trees mean that it's darker inside than one might expect). Partly opened-out to leave an island bar, although there is only a servery at the front). There is also a sizeable patio beer garden to one side for the better weather (and which was busier than inside when I visited). I found three of the five handpumps in use, dispensing Master Brew, Spitfire and Whitstable Bay Pale (£4.15).

Dating back to 1874, the Crown commands a relatively picturesque spot on the edge of Chislehurst Common. Given the alluring exterior and pleasant setting, the pub is something of a disappointment. The interior has been drastically refurbished and knocked through to a single room with an island bar and a restaurant section at the rear. The décor is very plain throughout, the lighting quite bright and the whole place seems devoid of any character. Little really catches the eye other than a few pictures of the local area. To one side is a pleasant beer garden which is probably the redeeming feature during summer months. This is the only shepherd Neame pub in town but there was only the bare basics on the ale front with just Spitfire and Master Brew across the 5 pumps. At £3.80 for the Spitfire, it is also among the most expensive pubs in the area although quality to be fair was very good. Whilst it is a regular stop on our occasional crawl around the area, I find it hard to drum up much enthusiasm for the place.

Official site of the Crown Inn, with menus - www.crownchislehurst.co.uk

Official site of the Crown Inn, with menus - www.crownchislehurst.co.uk

Randomness Guide to London - Crown Inn entry

Randomness Guide to London - Crown Inn entry