Crown & Sceptre
While the real ales were popular and ran out over the weekend, it was a good opportunity to try the Butcombe Gold, which was a fine alternative. A pint of Gold and a pint of Inches went down smoothly.
The updated interior and wood-chip beer garden offer a more modern and low-maintenance aesthetic, which can make for a more relaxed experience. It's great to hear there's still convenient parking, both in the hidden rear car park and on the nearby streets. Plus, it's always a bonus when you encounter a nice bar lady and enjoy the overall atmosphere.
P&P
Background......
The Crown and Sceptre pub has a rich and distinctive history, known for its character and its role as a community hub.
While the exact construction date isn't readily available, it is described as an "excellent Georgian coaching house," suggesting it dates back to the Georgian era (1714-1837). This indicates it has been a public house for a considerable period, possibly over two centuries.
One of the most notable periods in its history was under the landlord Roy Wheeler, affectionately known as the "world's grumpiest landlord" or "Mister Nasty." Roy was famous for his strict rules, such as banning mobile phones and threatening to eject anyone who mentioned Christmas. Despite this reputation, he was a big-hearted individual who raised thousands for charity and was a strong advocate for real ale. Under his tenure, the pub developed a quirky interior filled with memorabilia, including a collection of chamber pots hanging from the ceiling.
After Roy's passing, his son David took over the pub. The pub continued to be a local favourite, known for its unique atmosphere and its dedication to real ales, being listed in the CAMRA GBG (Good Beer Guide) for over 30 years.
In recent years, the pub has undergone significant investment and refurbishment. In 2022, following a £180,000 investment, the Crown and Sceptre reopened under new management (Champion Inns Ltd, part of Stonegate Group). The refurbishment aimed to be sympathetic to its traditional character, retaining features like cob stone walls, open fireplaces, and some of the quirky bric-a-brac, while also updating the interior.
Today, the Crown and Sceptre remains a popular local pub, recognized for its selection of beers, live jazz sessions on Tuesdays, quiz nights, and its continued community focus. It's considered a "real pub" with a friendly atmosphere, drawing both locals and visitors.
