Crown at Chilton, Chilton

Increasingly popular village pub, reopened by new owners in March 2025, with an emphasis on cask-conditioned and craft ales.

The pub is approximately two miles from the Harwell Science Centre and two and a half miles from the Ridgeway national trail. It reopened after a first phase of refurbishment, with a name change to Crown at Chilton from Rose & Crown having temporarily closed in December 2024 under the previous owner. It is a sister pub to the George at Upton.

The refurbishment is very sympathetic to the pub, with a snug-like locals area to the right of the bar, comfortably furnished with high back leather chairs and sofas. The former alcove area towards the back has been opened up and refurbished into more of a dining area.

There is a bank of six handpumps on the bar, with five or six beers invariably available. Timothy Taylor Landlord, Theakston Best Bitter and a house beer "Crown Best Bitter", a dry hopped version of Theakston Best Bitter, are permanently available. Theakston Old Peculier is regularly available. The two rotating ales always includes one from nearby Loose Cannon brewery, including their full seasonal range. There are also 18 craft ale and cider taps on the right hand side of the bar, with an eclectic range of beers including from Deya and Verdant.

Hot food is provided from 11am to 3pm and 5pm to 9pm Monday to Friday and from noon to 9pm on Saturday and noon to 4pm on Sunday, from an outside barbeque and grill and includes Mediterranean type grills as well as burgers and fish & chips. This food is also available to takeaway.

A sandwich and subs menu is also available at lunchtimes, and coffee and homemade cakes are available throughout the day. A fully-stocked refrigerator also acts as Chilton’s very own mini off-licence!

The upstairs rooms at the pub are being converted to provide three guest bedrooms and will be available from April 2026. Bookings are being taken as of February 2026.

Instagram