Crown & Thistle, Gravesend (Crown & Crumpet)

Small Georgian terraced pub, originally two fishermen's cottages. The name symbolises the union of England and Scotland, ratified on 1 May 1707, and the pub is believed to have opened in 1847. It was part of the tied estate of Gravesend brewers Walkers during the 19th century, and would have passed to Charrington's on takeover in 1904. It is believed to have been the last beerhouse in Gravesend, only acquiring a full licence in 1953.

After a period of closure in the 1980s/90s it re-opened as a free house.

The convivial atmosphere is free from amplified music and gaming machines. Four guest beers are on handpump. Double Vision and Westons cider are also available. Indian and Chinese takeaways can be ordered and eaten in the pub.

CAMRA National Pub of the Year in 2003.

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Well, that's how it was. Sadly the Crown & Thistle's fortunes declined almost as quickly as they had risen, due to some ill-advised changes in its management, and it was closed by the owner in 2015, who seems determined to pursue its development potential. However, the pub has been designated an Asset of Community Value by Gravesham Borough Council and it is to be hoped that this will prevent the permanent loss of yet another pub in this area of the town.

Update 2/22. Perversely, Gravesham have refused to renew the pub's ACV status, on the grounds that there is no realistic prospect of re-opening as a pub. This seems entirely at odds with the Localism Act 2011, which was designed to protect pubs rather than kill them off.