The King & Castle (Lloyds No. 1 ), Windsor

Directly opposite Windsor Castle, the pub takes its name from the combination of this and the bust of Edward VII which is located above the side alley which descends towards the river. The pub is on three levels, the entrance level has the main bar, downstairs also has a bar albeit with a limited range on the pumps whereas the upper level, which is galleried, seems to be more of a specific dining area with good castle views from the front windows. The main bar area looked to me to be a very well established pub with a dark wood bar with a carved back and Tudor rose inlays on the bar front, not your usual JDW fittings. Research indicates the building was originally a chemist shop but was converted to a pub in 1967, Wetherspoons claimed it in 2002. Unfortunately I have drawn a blank on previous ownership. The main bar has some decent wood panelling, a chandelier and a station style clock hung from a bracket, the panelling upstairs is a much more recent fit however there is a decent decorative ceiling up there. Décor includes the expected castle and river scenes. As for the beers, a bit of a disappointment, I usually visit 'spoons outlets for keenly priced ales with a good selection however in here there was just one of what I would regard as a guest on in the shape of Marlow Rebellion Mutiny which at £3.05 is very much at the upper end of JDW pricing. Tourist prices here then clearly. Other options were GK IPA, Doom Bar, Abbot, Weston's Marcle Hill cider, Maulden Silver Adder and Pride were "coming soon".....can't wait for the Pride. The generic 'spoons menu was also noticeably dearer than the usual. Despite some misgivings it is not a bad spot overall, the rear garden and terrace looks to be a good spot on the right day and my pint was in decent shape. I'd prefer a better beer range though if I dropped in again.

You HAVE TO visit the 'King+Castle' pub when in Windsor central. It's a big pub! It has at least 4 levels. Restaurant area at the very top, with an unusual 'walkway' going across the main bar floor, with an excellent view down on patrons below! How many pubs can boast that..?! They have cleaned up and extended the garden/patio area downstairs at the rear, for all the unfortunate folk who are addicted to setting fire to shredded leaves of whatever sort. The staff are usually helpful and efficient, and usually kept quite busy by a regular turnover of clientele. When drinking in Windsor you MUST include a stop off in the K+C for a quick aperitif before, or after, (or both) your theatre visit or evening meal. And raise a glass to the illustrious neighbour living opposite! God bless 'er! :o) TJ