Crown

Pretty pub with interesting food, several real ales, well chosen wines and a friendly atmosphere; stylish bedrooms

A chef-patron and his friendly staff run this lovely golden-stone thatched pub. The softly lit, beamed bar has leather and antique dining chairs around a nice mix of chunky tables on bare boards, an open fire in a stone fireplace and good pictures and pubby ornaments on pastel walls. The beamed main dining area has fresh flowers and candles, and similar tables and chairs on stripped wooden flooring; there's a modern circular dining extension too. High bar chairs against the counter are popular with locals, and they keep a house beer (from Kings Cliffe Brewery), Greene King IPA, Oakham JHB and two quickly changing guests on handpump, well chosen wines by the glass and farm cider; background music and TV. There are tables outside on the front terrace, and Elton Mill and Lock are nearby. Bedrooms are smart, comfortable and well equipped and the breakfasts are especially good. To find the pub (it's on the edge of this charming village), follow the brown sign towards Nassington.