The Crown, Milton Keynes

Official site of The Crown - www.thecrownmk.co.uk

Official site of The Crown - www.thecrownmk.co.uk

An extensive pub in the middle of the market square, this is a strange mix of old and new and different styles of decor, but is nonetheless a pleasant enough place and seems to be a popular spot. The main bar at the front is a traditional affair, but doesn’t have a particularly pubby a feel to it, although it’s difficult to pin down exactly why. There’s a rough wooden floor, and a real log burning fire which was a nice touch, along with some exposed stone walls. Elsewhere there was maroon paintwork on the walls, with wood panelling below, and there were candles on all the tables, so they were clearly trying to create a homely ambience. Seating was mostly tables and chairs, although there was a wooden bench type of seat in the window with old leather cushions on. A smaller bar on the left had a slightly more formal feel, and was empty on a recent Wednesday evening. An unusual glass counter next to the bar would have looked more at home in a deli. Beyond this was a whole warren of rooms. The pub is quite Tardis like, and extends back far further than you would imagine. The decor here is a mix match of different styles. In some places there is fresh plaster painted in a pale beige colour, with plenty of accessories such as large pewter bowls, paintings and candlesticks like a trendy modern dining pub. Elsewhere was dark red painted brick work and an attractive old flagstone floor. On the ceiling there were painted boards in some places, and some curious drapes in others. Many of the walls were covered in old wooden slatted doors which was unusual. At the back it opened out in to an area that looked like an old pantry, complete with wine rack and a large plate rack. Next to this was a larger room with a vaulted ceiling, and some elaborate hanging candelabra. As I said, a real mix match of styles. Services was friendly enough, if a little slow at times, although my food arrived alarmingly quickly. There was a decent looking menu with a reasonable choice for all courses. Dishes were mostly of the more traditional variety, with burgers, a Thai green curry and even fish fingers available. Prices were perhaps slightly ambitious though, with the mains ranging from £8 – £12 or so, and I felt that my Duck & Pepper Stir Fry was a little overpriced at £10.40. Much of the duck was fatty and gristly, and the portion size wasn’t exactly generous. Beers on tap were Spitfire and Doom bar. The solitary cider was Scrumpy Jack.