The Crown, Hastings

This pub now closed and boarded up. August 2012

The Crown Inn is a traditional L shaped pub that was very quiet last night (Saturday) as there were only five other customers who all seemed to be regulars. There is a nautical theme throughout and one of the locals looked like he had been on a few voyages around the world in his time and had never shaved. The barman was a nice enough chap and alongside a standard draught selection are three hand pumps that were drawing Directors and Old Speckled Hen with the third being off. Around to the left of the pub are the toilets and a pool table and dartboard. I didn’t spot any TVs or signs of Sky Sports, but there was some eighties music playing in the background. This is probably not a pub I would actively seek out again, but I would have no problem popping in for a pint if passing.

The dark brick exterior (with its bold signage) looks slightly out of place along the attractive old buildings along All Saints Road. However, once inside, you find a fine traditional 'L'-shaped layout with black wood panelling. Unusual trophy display cabinets above the bar counter. Pool table to one side. Several bench tables out front. Three Cask Marque ales available from handpump - Hobgoblin, Broadside and Directors (£3.20) when I visited - but these appear to change frequently given the numerous plump clips and beer mats on display.