The Rose and Crown, Woodford Green

Best pub in the local area, although the competition is not fierce.

Almost split into two distinct pubs with the lower and upper bar, having somewhat separate clientelle. The lower bar generally has more intelligent discussion, whilst the upper bar is usually noisier with more drunken patrons.

Poor features include the removal of the previously popular jukebox. Punters now have to suffer the forced brewery music.

There is also a ridiculous restriction from sitting on bar stools at the bar, even when there is hardly anyone in the pub, on say a Sunday evening.

The beer garden could also be revitalised by replacing the shrivelled dead brown plants with fresh ones and then employing a gardener to water them.

The furniture and machines have also been misarranged, with a quiz machine placed in a narrow aisle opposite the upper bar, causing frequent congestion on busy evenings.

The decor is also somewhat shabby, with too many random posters hanging from walls interspersed with out of date black and white pictures.

Despite these and many other flaws, the pub remains a vibrant part of the local community. This probably stems from its fair size enabling it to retain a quite sizeable base of regulars.

Most punters are from the local surroundings and a certain affluence can be detected amongst some. Nonetheless a few scruffs and tramps manage to ensure the pub retains a "down to earth" feel to it.

Attractions to the pub now include a varied food menu being served until 9pm most evenings (as soon as the required staff can be found or trained).

There is also a Monday night poker game, Tuesday night quiz and there has even occassionally been a Karaoke evening.

High profile sports games, including football, rugby and golf are regularly shown on the many flat screens inside the pub, and sometimes extended to an outdoor screen in the garden.

The bar staff are usually very accomodating and the beer is usually maintained at a high standard.

So, whilst I may have my gripes, nowhere is perfect and I feel the Rose and Crown deserves my rating of 8 out of 10 for probably being the best local (and traditional) pub in Woodford village.

25 Jul 2008 10:43