The Crown, Stepping Hill, Stockport

This 1930s roadside pub in Brewers Tudor is listed in Camra's heritage pubs inventory, but it is due to be reinspected following a recent refurbishment. The bar counter photographed (see link below) is not the same as I saw when I was here the other day, but whether it's been stripped back and restored, or replaced altogether I couldn't say. The "heraldic" tiles in the front and back entrance lobbies are still there (see photos), and altogether I liked this pub, whether it's restored or totally redone. It has a traditional layout with minor amendments, but there's still a bit of a drinkers corridor beside the bar. I had a quick look into the individual rooms and the general impression is of a very pleasant pub building. The beers are by Robinsons, of course, with Unicorn (x2), Trooper, Dizzy and Cumbria Way; I went for the last named, which was in good enough condition. (Minimum card transaction is £5, but cash is accepted.)

Official site of The Crown - www.robinsonsbrewery.com

Official site of The Crown - www.robinsonsbrewery.com

This is a massive Robbies roadhouse, it's much bigger than you'd think once you get inside. The outside is partially "Brewers Tudor" on the upper floor and basic brick on the ground floor. There are two lounges to the left and right as you enter along with another, larger room to the rear of the bar. It's all nicely decorated and fairly recently I would guess. There's some nice looking wooden panelling in the area leading to the toilets. Six handpumps on the bar with Unicorn, Cumbria Way and Wizard, all doubled up. The Unicorn was a decent pint (for Robbies). It's a really nice looking pub and I liked it. What a shame that there's karaoke on both Friday and Saturday nights to ruin it!

A large 4 roomed Robinson's pub with 6 handpumps serving 5 Robinson's beers plus a guest. The Robinson's Joe's My Way was vinegar like but was changed to an acceptable Robinson's Red Jester. Lots of archways to walk through to each room. Its a pleasant enough pub.