The reports of the demise of The Crown on New Oxford Street appear to have been premature. It was closed for refurbishment, not closed full stop. And this being a Sam Smith’s pub that refurbisment was restricted to a new slap of paint on the wall, and a coat of varnish on the bar. So anyone who fancies a bit of paint fumes with their pint should be directed to the pub next door to the umbrella shop.
The Old Crown on the other hand is still gutted. But I noticed the blue licence document on the window under the scaffoldingl. So I don’t know what the Old Crown is becoming, but I do know they want to stay open til 1 every week night and 5am Fridays and Saturdays. Watch this space.