Pub of the Week – The Crown, Elsecar

Here we have a pub that is truly a local. The rather jolly barmaid in charge of dispensing ales in what you could happily call ‘the snug’, to the front of the old stone building, obviously knows everyone who comes in.

There’s one large room to the right as you enter, with a further rear conservatory. Then there’s the snug, all old-fashioned scarlet plush, and with big windows looking south to the hills beyond.

And to the rear there’s a huge beer garden, with an extensive children’s play area.

If you are seeking fine wines and exotic spirits, it would probably be sensible to look elsewhere, but if you enjoy good (and very well-kept) beers from the likes of the Abbeydale, Acorn, Kelham Island and Ossett breweries, then you will not be disappointed, because mine host obviously has an enviable eye for local ales.

Food comes in generous portions – and at sensible prices. The Crown has a “pie and a pint” night on Tuesday, for example, and that will cost you all of a fiver. Then there’s the Wednesday curry club, and hearty roast dinners at the weekend.

The walls are adorned with images of nearby football stadiums, and some stills from the film Kes, shot hereabouts.

In the corner of the snug is a book swap scheme, and the whole place has an air of being with and for and supporting the community. A reet good, down to earth, no nonsense, comfortable old proper pub. And I’ll drink to that.

The Crown, Elsecar, Hill Street, Barnsley, S74 8EL. 01226 743823.

About The Author

Phil Penfold

A journalist for over half century, Phil writes over a broad range of subjects, including food and drink. He has been a long-term CAMRA member and is a keen supporter of Yorkshire's many and varied markets and independent retailers.

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