Crown & Anchor, Bromley  

The Crown & Anchor is like nothing else in this area, which is arguably no bad thing. One is spoilt for choice in Bromley North and this place offers something a bit different. It had a significant make-over in 2007, went no-smoking ahead of the ban, and is now something of a half-way house between a pub and a bar. Promoters will point to its polite atmosphere, prompt service, greenhouse-style beer garden, attractive lighting and smart clientele (beer guts are most definitely out). However, detractors will point to the lack of choice of real ale (Courage Best was the pick), vaguely hotel-reception-feel and lack of "authenticity" of the type you find in more than one traditional pub in these parts. The clientele has seen a shift as well- apparently its popularity with the gay community is on the wane, though this is probably due at least in part to there now being a dedicated gay pub (Star & Garter) on the High Street. When all is said and done, though, the Crown doesn't feel contrived, and we feel it refreshing to have a more modern pub among several traditional ones. It also appears, mercifully, to be free of the oiks who blight several of the town centre establishments.

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