Story by Nikky Wilson
Situated on the corner of Forncett Street and Harleston Street (off Carlisle Street), The Crown recently reopened under new management. Landlady, Deana Christian, has worked in the pub trade for quite a number of years and decided to take on The Crown because of her love for the area. “I’ve always lived in Pitsmoor,” she told me, “and I just wanted to come back here and build up my own set of regulars.”
The bar area has been refurbished to create a homely and friendly atmosphere. “A traditional pub is what I aimed for,” said Deana. The back room (parlour style) can be used for eating or drinking, and upstairs is a games room. Tuesday and Thursday nights are games nights with darts, dominoes and crib. “We’ve got all the old teams but I want to set up some new teams, so all newcomers welcome!” said Deana. She is also keen to set up a pool team and is getting the pool room ready.
Deana serves hot meals and sandwiches weekday lunch times with meat and potato pie on Thursdays and roast pork with Yorkshire pudding on Fridays. “Every bit home cooked they are. Not even a frozen chip!” says Deana.
Beers on offer include Tetley, Stones, Magnet and John Smiths, a range of lagers and draught Guinness. “I’ve tried to expand the range of what was on offer before to attract new custom. I also want to make this a family friendly pub – children are allowed in until 9pm each night and I’m planning to make a play area and garden out the back.”
It’s hard work getting a pub up and running again and building up a strong clientele but Deana has high hopes for the future. She used to run the youth club at All Saints before she went into the pub trade and looks forward to meeting some of her former ‘kids’ as adult customers in her pub. I’m sure she gives everyone else just as warm a welcome.
Opening hours
Sun–Thu: 11am–12 midnight
Fri & Sat: 11am–1.30am
Tel: 272 4804