The Heights, Luton

A surprise to see as many as six hand pumps when I called into the recently revamped and renamed Crown the other night - disappointing to be told that only one of them was available. Apparently they were setting up for a beer festival of sorts, Greene King's "Best Beer Fest 2013", so five of the beers were settling. To be fair, the range available (until 7th October) was pretty good for Greene King, including Dark Star APA, Osset Blonde, St Austell Tribute and Golden Sheep alongside their own IPA and Festival Ale - the last named being the only one on when I was there. The modern refurbishment includes dreadful paper on the walls and dubious upholstery on the seats. There is a complex of rooms and levels, the main feature being an atrium which allows light into the darker recesses of the building, or would have done if it hadn't been 10pm. There's a very smart new pool table with proper billiard-room lights. I can't imagine making this a regular stop, but that's just a matter of personal taste - I'm sure it will suit some people just fine.