please note - reviews on this site are purely the opinion of site visitors, so don't take them too seriously.
Bertram Bees - a cafe/restaurant is here, and the site looks great. After years of sheer neglect; no wonder the pub is gone.
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Cafe on it`s way !
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Currently on the market for �375k. Lower price than a lot of Westcott houses....
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Wetherspoons here really !!!!
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This pub has been so run down by a lazy/poor management that, I hear, Wetherspoons are having second thoughts. It seems very probable that the cost of bringing this place back to life will put potential investors off and that our village will just have the one pub.
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I am ashamed for the other residents of Westcott who seem to have nothing better to do with their smallminded petty lives than to continue their nasty minded campaign against the Davies family, even after they have shaken the shabby dust of Westcott from their shoes. They are well rid of the village and the majority of the inhabitants and it will be interesting to see just what replaces The Crown. Probably another plastic imitation to replace one of the last truly traditional English pubs, perhaps exactly what the spiteful villagers deserve. I doubt that Wetherspoons will be quick to welcome muddy dogs and foul mouthed drinkers! How quickly people forget that Paul was a good friend to many of us over the years; he will be a hard act to follow. I am sure there are a handfull of decent folk left in the village who will join me in wishing Paul, Charlie, Lewis and their families well in the future.
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No record on either Wetherspoon's or Mole Valley Council's web sites re such plans (which is a shame...)
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This boarded up building is the worst eyesore between Dorking and Guildford - on the A25.
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yes, wetherspoons will bring wescott to life and even take some of the dorking business. pre-christmas opening is expected and, in my opinion, the name don't matter. ain't done a check, but this will make five east surrey wetherspoons, with horley, redhil, epsom and leatherhead. all are doing well and open early and close late, with cheaper food and drink. and its a 25 year lease.
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Locals are already calling the new Wetherspoon - 'The WW' (Westcott Wetherspoon). However, I am informed that a possible name is The Ingrid Bergman as this fine actress actually stayed at The Crown whilst attending a party at the nearby home of her aforementioned friend, Leslie Howard. In any case, it will be an improvement on the poorly run place of recent years.
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Soon to be a Wetherspoon called The Ashley Wilkes after the part played by the actor Leslie Howard (a Westcott resident) in the 1939 movie Gone with the Wind.
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Paul has left? Hip Hip Hooray! Might go in when it reopens.
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The idiot - beer expert - with the lazy sons (Army!) was eventually thrown out after a lot of effort by us in the village. Best news for years....now the future!!
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Good news, at last. Now, hopefully, the village will soon have two decent pubs again and the sorry saga surrounding The Crown in recent years has come to an end. However, the years of neglect will require a fair investment to put right.
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Sadly, it's now closed its doors and is a boarded-up eyesore in the otherwise pretty village. Paul's retired, I'm told, after reaching a settlement with the building's owners.
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In here on Sat 28 May. Brains Bread of Heaven, Milkwood, a Theakstons and Robinsons Ginger Tom. An unusual mix. Had the Milkwood which was ok. Homely pub, was allowed a half even though they weren't officially open at 11.30am.
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'it might just be better to keep all four (ales) in check' - says TWG
too right!
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Amazingly, my maiden appearance at this pub was made only last Saturday. The few occasions I've pitched up in the village I've always opted for the Prince of Wales; not because it appeared to be a better bet - indeed the Crown has a rather more appealing, sturdy exterior - but because the trusty GBG regularly lists the PoW and not the Crown. Well, the lesson we all need to keep in mind is that the GBG is not perhaps always so trusty. Whilst its 1930s roadside companion is a perfectly pleasing local and features reliable ales and a decent welcome can be found, the Crown seems to have all these features and that little something extra - I think that boiled down to two things: firstly the hearty and convivial greeting by the licensee who seemed to be something of a character and well-regarded by locals, and secondly the equally characterful interior which was crammed full on interesting nick-nacks, which we agreed exuded considerably more charm than its nearby neighbour.
A range of 4 ales featured. I wasn't sure whether to give the landlord credit or not as he advised that 2 weren't on the best of form, and recommended I opted for 1 of the other 2! I appreciated his candour, although it did occur to me that it might just be better to keep all 4 in check. Still, there was a potentially good variety and what we had was in decent shape. At the rear lies a charming garden, set into the hillside. A perfect sun-trap with reasonable vantage across to the Downs. Perfect for last weekend's weather.
Ultimately, one may not feel it necessary to drive miles out of one's way to visit this pub. But if you're in the vicinity and read tradition to mean more than just fake Victoriana and home-made pie, then put away your 2011 Beer Guide and take a look at the Crown instead. If you're anything like me you'll be pleasantly surprised.
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Welcome to the site today John. Afraid things have gone downhill in the last 5 years through an inability to do even basic maintenance; your leak is now real.
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Back in 2006 I was Deputy Manager of Wotton House Conference Centre down the road and used to visit the Crown - Paul the landlord was great and made my experience in Surrey a great experience with regards to his hospitality - the regulars were great too and would move away from the bar for other visitors also - this pub is what a real pub should be and not your plastic manager/chef here today gone tomorrow. Well done to Paul for still going strong and do you still have the fake leak in the gents? hense people coming to the bar saying 'there is a leak in the gents!' -- classic
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As one of a group of walkers we found the landlord very welcoming. He told us not to worry about our boots. The landlord's German Shepherd behind the bar was soon told to be quiet and we continued to order drinks and food. The beer was well kept and the home-made food was good and generous. A great change from the soul-less chain pubs that seem to be taking over in Surrey. Recommended and I'd return.
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A morgue in need of maintenance; but laziness has prevailed for years.
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Please paint - its become the eyesore of our village...
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My parents and I made this the apex of our walk on the Greensand Way today. Its always a nice place to stop for lunch. There is usually a fire going, they serve Adnams and the food is good traditional British fare (things like haggis, pies etc) - loads of it too. I also knew there would be enough room for my 6 month old to have a bit of a roll around if he wanted to.
I have read a few of the previous reviews. Clearly you can ask 5 different people for their opinions about a place and get 5 different answers. Each to their own, but I like this pub. I'm the sort of person who rates friendliness over a uniform interior, and prefers the independent and quirky to the chain. I don't mind if things don't match and I quite like the fact that it isn't all immaculate and shiny - it feels lived in.
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Paid another visit here last weekend. Still the same old place but now parts of it seem to be falling down, desperately in need of a bit of maintenance and a lick of paint but I understand the landlord is in some kind of dispute with the owners. Had a couple of pints of "Rev. James" which was very nice, a few other beer were on as well. Menu was very limited but all food we had was good. It'd be a real shame to loose this place.
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Got caught in Westcott in December in the first snowfall and basically took refuge in The Crown.
Very much a "local" pub - the landlord knows the vast majority of visitors by first name, but doesn't discriminate when it comes to strangers and the locals were friendly to a friendly face.
Atmosphere was very "old country pub" (would have preferred an open fire to the stove in the main bar personally), something that's fast disappearing from this country, sadly.
Will deffo be popping in again if I'm in the area.
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Bemused by sussexfox's response to my review. Hadn't realised personal reviews were up for discussion; my mistake...
I'm not an alias and I plan to be in the Crown for a couple of pints tomorrow night if anyone cares to join me.
:)
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Paul should simply move on after over a quarter of a century. Wescott deserves a decent pub and the descriptions of 'andy' are almost laughable.
OK...there 'may' be a dispute. But a lick of paint and a clear-out of the car park might stop so many just passing by; in short, maybe a bit of effort is called for - with less talk!
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Welcome back raphaella. Still talking up a dead pub?
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We moved to Westcott recently and the welcome we received by Paul and his regulars has been fantastic. This is one of those pubs where you can pop in at any time for a fleeting pint, or a day-long session and you're made welcome.
The landlord has been in place 28 years, and is currently in a dispute with the owner who effectively wants to evict him, but can't do so because of his rolling tenancy. The owner has thus decided that not investing in any decoration or repairs beyond the legal minimum are a way to make the landlord wish to leave. Well, I for one hope that they fail in this because Paul sells what is, for me, the perfect country pub atmosphere.
Behind the bar is a decent selection of ales (Brains, Adnams, Rev Adams, a Winter Warmer), lager and cider... as well as a talking-point vast selection of spirits and mixers (What IS rum and shrub?!)
There's a large garden which elevates you above the A25 with tables, a car-park for 10 or so cars and a bus-stop to Dorking opposite.
Mountain bikers and hikers are welcome (although strongly discouraged from muddying the seats!).
The Prince of Wales (opposite) offers more of a gastro-pub atmosphere, but we find it a bit too light, and a place more for eating (rather than a pint with friends). That said, Paul does offer food (assorted from pub-grub through to game pie) and there's the usual crisps and snacks.
Dog friendly, real wood fires, comfy sofas, a few tables to eat and a friendly bunch of locals. Well recommended.
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As you say cb2k4, the run down appearance is due to a dispute, maybe. But to leave a pub (in the lovely village of Westcott) in this condition is financial suicide. People passing on the A25 just continue - and have done for years now. All for the sake of a few hundred pounds.
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Popped in here for a swift half while cycling through Westcott.
Ended up staying for about five hours and drinking quite a lot.
Pub is a bit run down on the exterior - I believe this is due to a dispute with the owners - but inside it is clean.
Didn't try the food but had several of the Adnams including Broadside and also Brains SA.
The landlord, Paul, was very knowledgeable and made me feel at home.
This is very much a locals pub but one of the ones i met, they were friendly and welcoming.
anonymous - 26 Jul 2009 09:59 |
Having read a lot of the comments about this place I thought I should give it, and the one across the road, a go. I went in there and guess what? It's a pub that sells beer and other add-ons. Nothing remarkable, nothing exciting, just a pub. I had a pint of Adnams which wasn't bad but not brilliant and the people at the bar weren't over friendly nor were they rude. had I been able to dedicate an entire evening to this pub I'm sure conversation could have been struck. If I find myself in Westcott again I shall certainly have another drink here.
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On our way from Dorking to Woking the other day stopped off for a drink,looking at some of the comments on here calling this pub grubby and tired i thought were a tad harsh, not anymore because that`s the case.The lager I had was ok same as the O/Juice my other half had,we would not eat here as its not very inviting.We should have known better looking at the outside of the place.
If any of the people who have tried to make this pub out to be super dooper
had any shame they would hang their heads.
ps whats monaing mean ?
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The pub is fine, if you don't like it don't go in it, it's very easy!!
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'monaing about the choice of noise ?'
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there are some delusional nutters on here, such as beersupper - why are you monaing that people are only posting once? get yourself on youtube mate where you can find as many losers like yourself to have online arguments with - failing that a mental health assessment.
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'a choice of noise'...................................................
first time I heard that, in any forum !
would raph like to expand that 'point' ?
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roband...another poster fulfilling the usual criteria, and giving another 10 rating !
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Friendly local, with a landlord who cares and a choice of noise. Real fire, eclectic selection of well kept beers and, from the other comments on this site, obviously someone with a grudge!!
A realpub, ie nothing fancy, but do you really want to inhabit fake gastro pubs, if so you have a fine selection in the area, all filled with the types who do like them!
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Was in this gawdawful place last week. Tired, grubby, unkempt, run down - these adjectives don't do the place justice; its worse that that. But wait for it, another buffoon will give it a 10 rating, very soon. I think the (small) pub clique are having a laugh...like everyone else !
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The only genuine comments on this pub have been far from complimentary and having been in in the last 2 weeks that is certainly the case.Its about time in my view this pub was taken off this site for a few months that might get the landlord to stop this farce of the one hit tossers. 0/10
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The terms of the simwilliams/17 Jan post have again been complied with. No. 20 in six months, all with a 10 rating !
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Had a fantastic Sunday lunch in The Crown - enough to feed three people and top quality too! The landlord and staff were great and made our group of adults and small children feel welcome. Giant Jenga and a couple of baskets of games went down well with the kids and they were entertained and contained enough to let the grown ups enjoy the food, beer and atmosphere. Really nice. Would recommend you skip breakfast before you go, just to make sure you have room for the apple pie and custard!
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The Crown's unkempt car park (beside the pub, on the A25) shows all what to expect inside - and all will be proved right.
Three grown men work in the pub and seem against the concept of maintenance or work(?). Nearly 20 new posters have now tried to talk up this grubby place in the past six months.
And now, we see that the pub's run down state is because of dogs (who won't wash themselves!) and legal action.
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Welcome N.Smallportionplease, yet another first-timer who decides to cut their teeth on the Crown and, natch, tells us the pub is better than anything one could possibly imagine: presumably he/she also gives a max 10 rating to keep the figure up. There must be more first time posts for this pub than any other in England - it's a total joke.
One other quick point. Until recently I too was a dog owner - a terrier who even at the age of 15 managed to cover himself in mud on every possible occasion and then tried really hard to spread it around the house, did I blame the dog for a dirty house? No because (a) I cleaned-up after him and (b) cleaned him up too, it was at time all a bit irritating but then that's part and parcel of having dogs. I welcome dogs in pubs but what I don't welcome is a stupid owner who brings his/her dog in when it's filthy.
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Are we really worried about the state of the car park, do you drink in it? No. So go inside and find a really 'old world' charming pub. No plastic beams or frills, just a friendly, jovial and sometimes 'abusive' [don't be rude to him] landlord.
The beer is varied and well kept.The food is freshly cooked, large portioned and very reasonably priced.
Don't want it to change.
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And the legal dispute has stopped the car park (clearly visible from the A25) being cleaned up, for years ?
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The 'raphaella thread' has changed.
'The pub does need some attention and - depite a legal dispute - the work is been done slowly; in the meantime, ignore the less than squeaky clean floor etc.'
In the past six months, 17 posters have now posted as described by simwilliams, a few days ago - although some defects (which were obvious to us all) are now admitted.
In truth, this a very mediocre and very quiet public house.
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Has it now reached a point where we judge our pubs like some people do with their beer, they hold it up to the light and view it from every angle before they take their first sip. Does a pub have to be in pristine condition with nothing out of place to make it a good pub? Of course not!
The Crown is a very good country pub with good beers and excellent food, (try the steak pie and veg and see how much you can eat, and all for �8 and some change). In all the time I have visited the pub I have never asked for a specific beer I have always left the choice to Paul the landlord he knows his beers and what�s best on that day, and I have never been disappointed. I for one wouldn�t want it painted in colour coordinated pastel colours, that wouldn�t improve the beer or the food.
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Sorry to chip in chaps, byt maybe I can clarify a few points. As I understand it the landlord of the Crown is a tenant on a non-repairing lease; this means the owners are responsible for repairs and renovations. I have been told that he has been in dispute with the owners for a number of years about their failure to carry out their obligations and lawers are now involved. Notwithstanding this, significant improvements have been made to the interior, the pool table has gone and comfy chesterfields and chairs have taken its place to create a cosy area with magazines and toys which makes it an ideal space for families. The dining area had also ben painted and re-furbed and most of the upholstery has been updated.
As regards the cleanliness of the Crown, having been a dog owner in the past I valued pubs that welcomed dogs and children and I would willingly sacrifice a squeaky clean floor for the pleasure of having a good meal and a pint at the end of a dog walk without having to feel guilty for leaving the dog in the car! The rare pubs who do still welcome dogs and walkers must fight a continual battle with mud etc. There are plenty of pubs now who are adopting the 'gastro pub' role...and thankfully the Crown is not one of these, but remains, without any pretension, a proper country pub where everyone is welcomed.
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MIA-again you still haven't got it have you? Nobody, I repeat nobody, is out to 'get the Crown'. It's a fine looking building, I didn't know it was listed, as it happens I live in a listed building and know what I can do and what I can't do.
What I know for absolute certain is that nobody from English Heritage or any other watchdog body will come and feel my shoulder simply because the building is kept sparkling clean. And if my house were a pub, like the Crown, nobody would shout at me for keeping the beer pipes clean, discarding the first pint after nothing has been pulled through for three or four hours; or indeed throwing away any beer that I have been unfortunate enough to be unable to sell.
A bucket or two some cleaning fluid and a bit of elbow grease are pretty cheap. Later on a visit to Wickes will disclose that paint is pretty cheap too. Think on...
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I really must pop in and see what Im missing judging by the comments it could be an evening to remember or a very hasty retreat !
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I am not saying that the pub isn't in need of a lick of paint and some work doing, but I am sure if people looked in to the facts of this matter that they would know there are ongoing issues with this pub, afterall what can you do with a listed building?
Also as I don't go out much due to work commitments I have yet to leave reviews for the few other pubs I have visited. However, rest assured that these reviews are forthcoming.
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MIA-again, I presume you joined specifically to comment favourably upon the Crown so not too much weight should be placed upon your comments since it would appear you have never commented upon any other pub - good or bad.
If you look back through the old reviews you will see that I do know the pub and I have been in there many times during the last 50 (yes I'm afraid it's that long) years. You'll be surprised to learn that I too find the landlord, Paul, an amiable bloke but he really does need to get his act together.
Aside from the somewhat hefty prices paid for the beer what I expect is a pub that serves good quality beer that doesn't (all too often) taste musty. He probably can't teach some of his regulars to be less insular in their little groups at the bar, but he can clean the place up, splash a bit of paint around and generally improve the look of the place.
What this pub doesn't need is a bunch of 'rent-a-keyboards' who presumably every time they sign-up for BITE give the pub a maximum 10 which it clearly doesn't deserve simply to maintain a scor of 6 or better.
There's no vedetta against the pub or its landlord, there is, I suspect, a real wish to see what should be a splendid pub vastly improved!
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I find it remarkable that some of you must really have an axe to grind about this pub. Surely if you spent as much time moaning about it as you do supporting every other pub in the local area you could find time to visit and see for yourselves.
Clearly you are as biased against it as I am (apparently) towards it!!
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Well done MIA........you very accurately have ALL the characteristics set out in the last post !
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As someone who is local to Dorking I felt I should try this pub seeing as it causes so much controversy.
I found the landlord to be most amiable and helpful in choosing a good ale and some lunch. The regulars were chatty and the atmosphere was good. The car park was not brilliant but had obviously been tidied recently and looked reasonable.
It was very warm and welcoming. All in all a good visit and I enjoyed my food and beer. Will be returning with the rest of the family soon. Good country pub!!
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Speleo1 is 15th poster in the past 6 months who share the following characteristics: -
1. The Crown post is their first and only - they never post on any other pub.
2. Their post is totally positive, with no hint of any flaws.
3. No reference whatsoever is made regarding the frequent negative (and accurate) posts.
Undoubtedly, The Crown is the subject of the most obvious and largest effort on BITE to talk up a second rate village pub which has failed to move with the times; the nearby Wotton Hatch and Prince of Wales pubs have been recently refurbished - something long overdue at The Crown.
It would seem wise for those concerned to concentrate on the pub itself - and its many failings - instead of continuing this cheap, tedious and failed advertising campaigh on BITE.
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Speleo1 you really wonder why people question comments like yours (welcome to the site by the way) if you start commenting on more than just this pub you will get some cred.Thats the problem with "The Crown"most if not all of the good comments come from one off newbies, which does the pub no good at all.
I popped in last week and again i will say its a below average village pub, very tatty from the outside and the carpark looks like a dumping site.
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I have drinking in the Crown for 19 years now and can honestly say it's the best in the area. Why ?? because it's a real pub, not a moderised heap with the same old junk on the walls. it does real beer, real food, has a real landlord and always but always has a friendly atmosphere.
Reading some of the sad messages here there are some just out to damage people.
Off to enjoy a beer now !
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What a curious review by pshadbo! He/she registers on the site on January 10 and the first (and only so far) review is a rave for this pub - not to be taken too seriously methinks.
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Wonderful pub with a warm welcome for dogs. Excellent good value lunches (home made soups) and a wide range of beers. Lovely log burning stove, Definately a find.
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I share the views of the last three posters which were genuine ones.
This is a grubby place which merits little attention - except from the 'clique posers'.
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The clique is evident on here, and in the pub; they stare when you walk in. Clearly, the advertising campaign is tedious and unsuccessful - and one wonders why the three grown men (who run the place) couldn't get a paint brush out instead of condoning/encouraging raphaella's misguided campaign. Incidentally, Reasonedview's thoughts are reflected on other sites. For example - 'Trusted Places'.
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I am puzzled by the vast number of comments on this pub, I can only presume this is driven by a small group who are determined to 'promote' the pub via this site - fine if everyone recognises this for what it is.
Personally I have known the Crown for more than 50 years - since the days when the landlord and his wife were Mr and Mrs Glass. Frankly not a lot has changed except that it's, perhaps, just a bit grubbier than it was.
I try it from time-to-time and generally leave somewhat disappointed. Frequently the less than bargain priced beer has been in less than perfect condition - a bit musty. But the biggest problem the pub has is the very cliquey feel about those who sit at the bar: it's just a bit oppressive at times.
On the credit side the Crown certainly has its band of faithful regulars and the notice board is always worth a glance as your pass.
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Keep it up you one comment no hopers,at least the last member of the Prat lodge got some thing right.This pub is very very popular with passing tourists thats why they just keep passing not stopping just keep on passing.
I`m sure that jimiboi left a L off the end of his name coz these reincarnations are as annoying as one.
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Oh lordy....another one....eh raph ? Same drival about a mediocre pub, well past its best.
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Lovely pub with a warm and traditional interior with two open fires. Very much a relaxed atmosphere which suits the intelligent drinker.
Great ale/bitter, usually three different local ones on and good range of wine, spirits and lager.
Food is worth walking a country mile four, all home cooked traditional food, sourced locally, with creative twists (always cooked while you wait and generous portions). Game Pie here is a must when it is on the board.
Very much a locals pub but newcomers are never made to feel anything but welcome (very popular with walkers and passing tourists). Very nice landlord who is helped by two sons run it. They make a point of getting to know their punters and what they like and it shows. Very few truly decent, non corporate and community focused pubs like this in Britain so make the time to visit and support this great place.
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Yes Barry Barnes welcome,but i do like Biker and others yet to see this comment smell a rat,one hit (comment) wonders are like a fart they are around for a couple of seconds then gone,shame as this pub is getting to be a bit of a joke and no one believes a word said in these comments.
But nice try raphaella oops Barry.
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Went on the off chance on Monday 29th December for a walk and then some pub grub. There were 11 of us including 5 children. On return to pub after walk were welcomed in. Good draught beer (including Tribute). Landlord sat down with us and went through what was on offer, and I have to say one of the best menus I have come across for a while. The children were catered for with a variety of fish/sausage and chips, with the adults having game pudding,fantastic ham,eggs and chips, excellent lamb curry and ale pie. Afterwards the children were allowed to go and see the three large dogs out in the back, giving the grown-ups some time on their own.
I cannot recommend the Crown enough for the friendliness, service and the plentiful, tasty food. Please give the place a try, you will be well rewarded!
Cheers,
Barry Barnes
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Sim. You were quiet correct, again
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Ended up at this pub by chance today after a muddy dog-walk meant we were less than welcome at other local establishments. The landlord could not have been friendlier or more welcoming to the five of us and our two dogs, despite a slight cash-flow mishap on our part which meant we had to nick out to the cashpoint mid-order!
We had a lovely leisurely lunch and could well have stayed all day. The game pudding was AMAZING, as was the mutton stew, the meat for which we were told came exclusively to them from Wales. The home-cured ham with eggs and chips also went down a treat. I can't remember a better, heartier pub lunch in years, and it was good value too.
Lots of pubs seem to have been refurbished to death or have become soulless, packing in too many people to draughty conservatories and losing the personal touch by relying on ever-changing rostas of agency staff. Not so here: The Crown felt like how pubs should be: no-nonsense, great beer, brilliant food.
This is definitely our pub of choice in Dorking now and we will come back next time we're walking the dogs on Ranmore Common. Lovely unpretentious stuff. More pubs like this, please!
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Yes...Mr Beersupper; raphaella seems desparate.
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Another newbie (o yes) welcome to the site brianlove, hope you get out and about to lots of the pubs in the area and not just join in with this scam.
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lovely old english pub. friendly landlord. fantastic game pie! great size portion.. not for the small appetite! friendly atmosphere.. would go again for the traditional pies and veg. thoroughly recommend...
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raphaella seems to have gone missing again; maybe she's drinking in the Prince of Wales across the road !?
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We thought raphaella had been put down ! Tell her to walk over the road to the POW, a good well managed pub - going places without clownish website advertising.
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Too right left!! That woman raph - not only does a disservice to the two remaining Westcott pubs, but also to mankind. She actually thinks she has a more interesting life than others; no wonder I saw 'men in white coats' outside The Crown recently. Oh lordy. Init.
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I hope we are not going to have a Christmas campaign from raphaella - under what ever name(s) she wants to use. Not long ago, she was quick to put down Westcott's other pub, the Prince of Wales; this has now reopened - refurbished and with new local ownership and is much better than the Crown, under all headings. Still, no doubt, raph will ramble on!
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Well one muppets back i see (raphaella)Was there was one called ralph ??Just asking!!
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Yes raph, we knew it was you. Starting another misguided/newly named campaign, we see...
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Paladin, I have never been away. Don't start all this foolishness again, please, you are just demeaning a site where GENUINE pub users can post their coments; that is, people who have possibly more interesting lives than to indulge in spiteful, personal and inaccurate reportage. Enough.
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When did raphaella get back ? The same untrue tone has !
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As a first time visitor, I must admit the outside left me a bit dubious. Having just been for a pubs guide 4 mile walk to find the pub we were supposed to end up is now an Indian ( the cricketers) we were directed to The Crown by a local.
Our first concern was "can we bring the dog in" was met with "this is an English pub, of course".
The atmosphere is cosy and welcoming and if you are into horses, a veritable treasure chest of beautiful well maintained saddles on proper trees and paintings.
We were instantly made welcome by those patrons at the bar and mine host.
The food was plentiful to say the least, well cooked and hot. The guest beer was well served and gave the impression the landlord knows how to look after his beer.
Now from the woman's point of view!
Lovely friendly people, a proper old English pub - we and our dog were made most welcome. Wholesome home cooked food - how country pubs used to be ! Refreshing to know they can still be found....
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This certainly has the feel of a proper old pub with very friendly helpful staff and a tired interior, which is what many people find relaxing in a pub. We went there for Sunday lunch with our two young kids and had a great experience which was so different from the many �family dining� pubs around. Early on Sunday lunchtime there were about 6 or so other groups of people there and after leaving an hour later we had spoken to each one at some time � the pub is small which encourages people to be open & friendly which is not an atmosphere you get in many pubs these days. A previous poster mentioned a �club� atmosphere & I can see what they mean.
Only had one beer, a Rev James which was pretty good, but Brains SA and a couple of Adnams beers were on. Shame no local beer though.
The food menu was limited but had the feel of what was freshly available at the time, the portions were generous and reasonably priced.
The landlord was very friendly and took the time to show my kids his big husky type dog which they loved.
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Food was Average so there no returns.
Know what i mean,i go with simwilliams`s view 100 percent.
2/10 for being there.
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As a Wescott chap - I know this place to be average in every way; when the refurbished Prince of Wales (across the road) reopens, we'll all see how a good pub (Crown) has suffered from a lack of direction. It continues to exist only 'cos its on the A25.
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Interesting concept by Paul the manager re the bell on the bar counter...
1 ring is sufficient
2 rings is rude
3 rings means pick a f@!"ing window.
Nice observation whilst in there a couple of weeks ago!!
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Food is EXCELLENT
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Paid another visit to this pub today. Bar has been spruced up since my last visit but still retains that "country pub" feel.
Food good, reasonably priced and plentiful if a bit slow, but then 20 of us did all walk in at the same time.
Beer OK but not fantastic. Perhaps they don't shift enough of it: maybe they'd be better of keeping a smaller range than they do at the moment.
A really nice, unpretentious pub.
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7/10
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Great that the 'sad bag' Raphaella has left Westcott. No more strife, but what a wally ?!
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Agree with Biker. The intriguing question is - 'why will Raphaella not post on the POW site, about the POW ?'
She has already made a laughing stock of The Crown on BITE and, I see, it has spread to other sites. But, has she got a plan - or even a brain ?
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Why not comment on the POW on that pub's BITE site, Raphaella ? That is the place for further input - not on another pub's site !
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simwilliam, leftfield, please don't accuse me of cowardice. I have been away on business for the past week but have been given to understand (by someone whose word I would trust completely) that even last night there was a blackboard plainly in view inside the POW indicating that the kitchens were closed and that the pub is closing shortly. I certainly haven't made any veiled accusations about hygene,etc, simply reported the facts as I understand them. Perhaps one of you can throw some light on the true situation as you both seem far better informed than I am.
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Yes Raphaella. Have the decency/courage to make your allegations on the POW site. Your 'back door' comments (which are,in fact,untrue) suggest both cowardice and deviousness. Does Paul know what you are saying in the misguided support of his pub ?
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Raphaella. Please make your allegations about the Prince of Wales, Westcott (regarding pub/kitchen closures) on that pub's BITE site - and be aware the the laws of libel apply. Why do you have to stoop so low ?
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Raph...Westcott people have CLASS...please don't try to ruin it. Yes ...as simw says the POW is much better - and your facts are wrong (about that more frequented hygenic place)..................again
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Admittedly I may have been as guilty as others posting on this site but I believe that the original purpose of it was to post favourable comments about pubs we like and not to use it as a knocking site and post sometimes cruel and personal remarks about personalities associated with the particular hostelry concerned. Yes, by all means lets have some fun, but why don't we try to keep it light and kind?
Moving on to the comments about the POW (The Prince of Wales) for those not as familiar with Westcott as
simwlliams, I may be wrong, but I heard that the kitchens had been closed recently and that the pub is due for closure shortly anyway. Perhaps simwilliams who seems to have in depth knowledge of the POW can clarify this on the POW site? Remember, if you can't say anything nice...
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Ps can i just ask is it Miss Piggy and Kermit or the 2 old gits?????
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Awww yes. The Muppets ARE back. 'Beer/spirit reps. lunch there'. Reps. will go anywhere for a free meal, Gutzeit. BTW, does Paul have 'another' new girlfriend ?
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Even mediocre Muppets (staff etc.) try to give a very average pub a lift; sad, the POW - across the road - is much better; its car park, food, hygene, new management and all. But - to go into Muppet speak about the Crown..'just came...fell in love...great food...articulate gov...my local...'. Yes, Paul is there for a long time...time for a change ?! Raph...give us a break..............
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The Muppets are here to stay i see.
And how if your not staff/management do you know so much of the goings on.
I think your doing the pub a disservice !!!!!
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gutzeit, I believe you are unmasked! I always suspected we had similar tastes, good to know that you appreciate the Crown as much as I do. Hope to see you soon over a good lunch there in the near future.
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What better compliment could you give to a pub, than ''The beer and spirit reps. have THEIR lunch there''. PRETTY GOOD, WHEN YOU THINK THEY HAVE THE CHOICE OF HUNDREDS.
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M.P.D strikes again or is it the "The Muppet Show"??
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Having just moved into the village we have been welcomed most warmly by the friendly landlord. It's hard to find fault with our new local, the food is excellent and served in enormous portions, the Adnams is a good pint and they never run out of Jack Daniels! It's a proper local country pub, if you're in the area we recommend you check it out.
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Paid another visit, this time at lunch. The place is much brighter, after the hard work, the team have put in decorating and polishing. enjoyed my lunch, thick asparagus soup, and then cheeses (good ones), I think I will become a regular, as I live only four miles away.
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Waldorf and Astoria (more new peeps!) have joined in; the latter tells us helpfully that every English village has two pubs ! Beersupper is right; the stunt is backfiring and The Crown is a very average pub. I've been going there longer than Waldorf and, yes, Paul is a pleasant chap; however there is absolutely nothing exceptional about the place. Why do I have the feeling that more 'new' posters will soon be repeating the ludicrously absurd 10 ratings ? W & A should rejoin 'The Muppet Show'.
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In every English village there are two pubs - the fancy looking one, and the REAL one, where the villagers come, the landlord is personable and hospitable and the food and drink are immaculately served. The Crown is the one to come to in Westcott. I'm new to this area and been looking for somewhere to spend an hour or so each week. The lunch was so good here I couldn't eat dinner and got into proper trouble with my wife! Still, may have been worth it.
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It's nice to hear that this pub is getting the recognition that it deserves. Having been a customer since 1989 (with the same landlord) I consider it a "club", rather than a "pub".
Paul offers the sort of welcome that you would like to get the first time that you walk into any pub, especially if you are on your own. Mornings stretch long into the afternoon and there is always something on offer to eat, even if it is one of Paul's famous sandwiches!
Those people who have offered an "average" review obviously haven't quite got the message!
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Has the landlord employed a cheap PR company to promote himself ? he gets as many compliments as the pub its self and alot of them from one off posters mmmm i wonder !Is this an advertising stunt which is backfiring???
On my one visit here i found it a very average pub on a busy road,and have passed by on a number of occasions and found no reason to go back.
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Raph/Gut. Biker didn't comment then ?!
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Who is deleting information on this worthy pub. No censorship concerning The Crown, please
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Raphaella here, certainly not me deleting comments, what a pity as an interesting dialogue was progressing on several levels.� Does anyone know an IT wizard who could have done it?� I also didn't read any derogatory comments about the Crown this afternoon so I wouldn't think they had reason to delete anything, and I have always understood that this pub is not linked to the internet!
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The integrity of this site is at risk. Negative comments deleted ? O K...The Crown at Westcott is just about average.......but let us say so on here !
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One has to wonder why a number of accurate posts - by regulars - have been deleted about The Crown. Does Raphaella have anything to do with it ? Yes
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At last a real pub with a real landlord ! Paul Davies is a credit to his trade I had just been refused entry to another pub locally because i had 3 kids and 2 dogs in tow all very well behaved Paul made us very welcome engauging my children in conversation and showing my son his displayed gun collection.We enjoyed an excellent lunch best Roast Beef ever !! crispy chips and plentifull veg portions, For the first time in ages we were made to feel welcome the locals in the pub obviously enjoy Pauls wit and charm. If you are in the area pay this pub a visit,it isnt as glamorous as some pubs in the Surrey Hills but it must be one of the most Welcoming.If you are a dog or horse lover Pauls Knowledge is vast he also owns Austin Healey and a Lagonda, and he can talk the hind legs off a Donkey
Support this pub its a proper one !!
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After seven months of silence - six posts in a week; five of which were very positve. Paladian, I [as a local] agree with your view; the roadworks/constant traffic/lights/noise on the A25 outside - did'nt even merit a mention from the new 'fans' !
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Friendly atmosphere, good beer, spectacular food - both quality and portions. Landlord comes from the old school in the very best English Country Pub 'mine host' tradition. Just such a shame that the external structure is shabby which is all that lets it down which is why it is only rated as an 8 by me. Very well worth a visit - just make sure you are hungry.
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went there for lunch on sunday and really enjoyed it, the sun was out and we sat in the garden and had a couple of pints and a spot of lunch. really good drinking pub and food was excellent.
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My friend, two children of 11 and 2 dogs arrived yesterday at the Crown after a very hot circular walk from the book Short Pub Walks in Surrey. We were greeted by the charming and friendly host Paul and an equally welcoming young lady. It is a beautiful old building with a sweet higgledy piggledy cottage garden. We ordered fish & chips, chicken nuggets and chips for the children and two cheese platters for ourselves. I asked if he could do a ploughmans and so Paul produced a wonderful plate of salad with all the usual ingredients plus extra trimmings of watermelon and orange. They were very generous helpings of delicious cheeses (so much so the dogs ate as much as we did) and the fish and chicken were wolfed down- nice crispy batter and clearly not mass-produced dubious-meat-content variety either. We finished with a high quality vanilla icecream with treacle tart, although by this stage I needed to lie down we'd eaten so much. We need more of these 'olde English' pubs with personal service and I left feeling I'd made a friend. On the way out I fell in a flowerbed- not for obvious reasons- but squatting down to untangle my dog's lead from the table leg I whacked my head on the bottom of the table and fell inelegantly and hilariously (according to my children's and friend's unseemly laughter) backwards into one of the flowerbeds. I didn't realise but my treasured pair of Ray Bans slipped off my head into the plants which I didn't discover til I was back home. I rang the pub and left a message and Paul waited in well after closing time for me to arrive and collect them. Well worth a visit!
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Raphaella paints an idyllic picture, albeit an inaccurate one [his/her first on BITE !] 'Sixteen pairs of eyes' - a rare ocurrence in the Crown these days; this pub is just mediocre and the landlord recenty admitted to the Dorking Advertiser that the terrible and ongoing Westcott roadworks [directly outside the pub, making parking dangerous/impossible] had taken their tole. Not his fault - but Raphaella must be admonished for blatant embellishment. Contrivance ? No doubt !
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Village pubs used to fall into two categories; the first - where as you entered all conversation ceased and sixteen pairs of unfriendly eyes surveyed you, and the second - where a jocular landlord greeted you with a ready smile and the locals were friendly. Happily the Crown Inn falls into the second category. The slightly scruffy exterior belies the confortable interior which is being updated as I write. Plenty of tables and chairs, quiet corners, a log burner in winter and a delightful cottage garden to enjoy in summer. The heart of the pub is the host, Paul Davies, who can (and frequently does) converse intelligently on most subjects under the sun. All opinions are welcomed and this can lead to some lively debates from which no-one is excluded! Add to this well kept beer, a good selection of wines and excellent pub food which arrives promptly and in more than generous portions (no nouvelle cuisine here!). Well behaved children and dogs (although not necessarily in that order) are welcomed and you will leave the Crown refreshed,relaxed and replete.
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I was impressed by this pub. The landlord is very welcoming and knows what he is doing. The beer (Adnams, Brains, although I had Broadside myself) excellent and the food well presented, tasty and filling. I have never seen such a collection of old horse saddles before. This is a good old English pub, and there just isn't enough of them. We were a large group who just dropped in and we all loved it.
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A cracking English country pub. Friendly bar staff, locals and dogs. Wooden floor so they don't whinge if you have a bit of mud on your boots and a real fire. Nice pint of Adnam's and a couple of guest ales on. Proper pub grub too, none of the usual pretentious muck. Cumberland sausages, eggs, beans and chips: what more could you want!
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Love the comments on the board outside.
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Over the last 30 years I have visited this pub at least once a year. The landlord remains all that is best in British pubs. He is well informed, considerate to the trans gendered and the best therapist you won't have to pay for. Good choice of beers generous potions of food. And a car park ideal for parking cars in.
Sadly he has rejected my suggestion of cat wrestling in his delightful gardens but I am sure it would fill both the garden and the barby.
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This is a good old fashioned village pub. Paul the landlord is a great characture and offers a warm welcome. There is a great choice of beers and a huge selection of single malt whiskeys. He does good home made food and huge portions. There is a pool table, darts and a great old pinball machine. This pub does not need a make over, unless you like the modern ye olde themed eatery chains.So the car park is a bit scruffy, so what I don't want to hang out in the car park.
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The Crown has recently enjoyed an internal makeover, although luckily not a new landlord. The old one continues to be lugubriously cheerful, bantering happily with his regulars in between disappearances into the kitchen to rustle up huge portions of wholesome pub food. The garden is receiving some TLC, too. He's chafing that his landlords haven't invested in a matching exterior renovation as yet.
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We visited The Crown this Sunday and sat in the lovely garden for lunch. Great choice of real ales, I had a huge Sunday roast beef and my brother had homemade fishpie. After a long bike ride in the Surrey hills we were very glad of the warm welcome we recieved and great food and drink.
anonymous - 23 Apr 2007 23:23 |
Its simple! This pub has needed a makeover for a long time - even the car park !
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I don't think this place has changed in decades, and it is like that favourite pair of slippers you have. They are really comfortable, but suddenly you wake up and realise that it is time to get some new ones
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I take it Kate is Paul's new friend.
Not the Crown I know.
Could do with a bit of brightening up..... Not just the decor.
anonymous - 24 Feb 2006 22:57 |
The Crown is a good old country pub, offering fantastic English and Foreign food in massive portions! Work up a hunger on a walk or a bike ride before entering! The cod and chips are phenomenal as are the 'girl' or 'man' curries! If you like ready wit and repartee, good ales, local banter, the Crown is the place to go!
Kate - 27 Jan 2004 13:37 |
