Bars & Pubs

A thoroughly successful pub renovation, the Crown is worth the walk down bleak Blackfriars Road. Often less crowded than nearby locals, it's a comfortable, vaguely scruffy place, lit by candles, chandeliers and shaded standard lamps. It stocks at least 35 different malt whiskies (some much more expensive than others: check before you choose, because prices are not necessarily as advertised on the blackboard). Champagnes are another forte. Flowers IPA or another guest beer and the usual lagers are on draught. Decent enough pub food (steaks, sausages, risotto) is reasonably priced at two courses for £10 and the roomy back yard has been ably converted into an airy, lamp-heated smoking tent.

Time Out Bars, Pubs & Clubs Guide 2008/9