Situated on the very pretty Clerkenwell Green, The Crown Tavern is a handsome pub that serves a decent selection of real ales and has a cracking outdoor area for the warmer months.

The Venue
Clerkenwell Green is a lovely part of the City; it’s a welcome, comparatively tranquil haven from hectic stretches like nearby Clerkenwell Road. The Crown Tavern sits on one side of this easy-on-the-eye scene, with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra’s office on the opposite side. The shadow of the historic St James’s Church casts a shadow close-by and this is a dynamic and creative part of the City, one in which digital agencies and world-class architects sit side-by-side in converted workshops and office space.

The outdoor area is the big selling point here – a spacious patio with numerous tables and chairs, it gets absolutely heaving when the sun shines. Inside its green-tiled walls, it’s a fairly traditional pub that’s been given a fair bit of love and attention. Seating and standing room wraps around a curved bar/service area and there are a couple of corners for larger groups as well as a moodier space in the back with no natural light which is often reserved for group sittings.

The Atmosphere
Buzzing when the weather is kind, The Crown Tavern is undoubtedly a popular spot with local residents and workers. Staff are generally pretty on the ball and quick to serve.

The Food
Food is pretty typical of a posh pub grub menu. Along with fish and chips (£9.75), you can find Gloucester Old Spot sausages and pea mash (£8.75), and lamb shank shepherd’s pie with carrots and broccoli (£9).Starters and desserts follow the theme and there’s even a set menu at lunch where two courses cost £10. Quality is, on the whole, respectable enough.

The Drink
The Cask Marque plaque on the door indicates ale drinkers are in luck here. Five ales on tap include the seemingly permanent London Pride along with guests like Timothy Taylor. Leffe, Peroni, Kriek and many more quality offerings pad out the numerous options on the pumps and in bottles. Pints cost around £3.50-plus.

The Last Word
The Crown Tavern has a great location, a decent selection of beers and an outdoor area that comes alive when the sun shines.

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