The Rose & Crown, Bermondsey, SE16

Masterbrew, Spitfire, Kent's Best, Earlybird, tried the latter which was in fine condition. A compact pub arranged around a 3qtr island bar, scrubbed wood floor to the front with leather banquette seating, wood tables, padded stools & barstools, wood-panelled walls decorated with photos & prints of old London, esp river locations. Up a couple steps & around the longer narrow side of bar to an open snug-like carpetted area, a hanging board proclaims ‘Shepherds Retreat – Crook Bar upstairs', dk whether that is a function room. Outside there is a mostly grassed beer garden to side & rear, somewhat overlooked by surrounding buildings. Seems popular for lunch with nearby office workers & menu includes burgers, chilli, nachos (£5-6), cod & chips (£7). Don't know how busy it gets to support 4(!) lunchtime staff but you won't go thirsty; I was asked 3 times whether I was waiting before I was even halfway down my pint! Traditional looking pub with good Sheps beers at £3.