The Crofton, Fareham

AT first sight this looks like yet another dull 1960s estate pub with its estate-like exterior, large car park and crowds of smokers outside. But the resemblance ends there. On entering you find an array of 6 ales, with daily-changing guests among them. Surprisingly, CAMRA has found this place and GBG-ed it. Most of the staff are a bit dippy, but the manager is on the ball, knows his beer and was good to talk to. I had pints each of Doombar, O'Hanlon's Golden Blaze, Young's Special and Forty Niner, all superbly kept and highly enjoyable. Well worth seeking out for its beer quality, plus the food tastes much better than it looks, and there's even water provided for the dogs. I will certainly be back next time I'm in the area.

The Crofton has recently been extended, & modernised throughout. The menu has something to offer everyone & caters for people with special dietary requirements. A warm welcome awaits you at this friendly pub!

Another visit to the 'Crofton'. The exterior reminds you of a large Council house and harks back to when it was a Watney's pub and opened in 1962. The interior is a little bland and recently re-decorated, but it's made up for by the fantastic selection of real ales cared for by the ultra knowledgeable Ian and Jenny Readman (look out for his tie). There's almost two different clientel. One lot is made up of the 'locals' and the others who visit for the great food. The Crofton is famous not just for its well kept cellar of real ales but also for its home cooking and on my latest visit the food area was packed. In the cold winter months there is a welcoming fire in the public bar area where they have a telly. An elegant function room with skittles alley is available for hire at a very competitive price, offering a skittles menu plus buffet and 3 course menu options! Quiz night is the first Tuesday of each month. You can't fault the beer and I was on the 'Mid-Summer' ale, which at £2.95 in the this part of the world is good value. Too my mind, this is the best pub in the area and worth a visit if only to see the bar staffs neck ware.

Official site of the Crofton - www.thecroftonpub.co.uk