Jono's, Ilford

Grailhunter's comments are spot on.

Good friendly atmosphere, excellent staff and good sports coverage - it's basically an old style local pub, the kind that the recession and themed pubs are killing off. Given the state of pubs in Ilford these days, Jono's is head and shoulders out front.

27 Aug 2009 08:51

The Cranbrook, Ilford

This venue had now reopened under the chain heading Potion after an extensive re-decoration.

Having visited the bar yesterday I have to say the interior is impressive if a little cold and empty. Its ambience matched with its prices however, suggests it should be in a different location to Ilford. Lager (Carlsberg and Fosters) as well as John Smiths sells at �3.00 per pint, whilst Perroni and Magners rolls in at a staggering �3.90. Couple that with a bowl of chips at �3.00 and cheap it ain't.

I'm wondering exactly how much homework the management did on the surrounding area. These prices are very much out of step and will do nothing to encourage residents and old regulars of the Cranbrook back (although publicans elsewhere in Ilford must be rubbing their hands together). If it's aimed at youngsters, it's in the wrong location and should have been in Ilford town centre or Gants Hill near to Faces nightclub.

All in all, I wondered if this was some stunt from the latest series of The Apprentice and the task was to put an up market bar in a typical suburban setting to see if the locals could be robbed blind.

30 Mar 2009 08:12

The Rose and Crown, Ilford

Hi Dinosaurman,

Nice to hear from someone who remembers the old place.

I do vaguely remember Flo and Stan (and certainly the boxer!), although as I was in my teens at the time it was sensible to keep a low profile for obvious reasons.

During my time there, Jim was the main landlord (my better half Rose worked in the pub between 1986-1991 as under manager at the same time)and he presided over some of its best times. I too remember the Police drinking in there, especially their Xmas parties, as well as British Telecom and the Gas Board workers from across the road.

As I recall, Chris was the second landlord to succeed Jim and I believe there were 3 after, not including relief staff.

Since the closure, we've been using the Cranbrook down by Valentine's Park, but that too has now been closed, subject to sale by the brewery - a sad refelction of the times I fear.

17 Sep 2008 09:47