The historic 18th century ‘Half Crown’ on Benfleet’s High Street, a pub as famous for its community spirit as its namesake, had a special visit from Rebecca Harris MP when it reopened last week Friday (23rd March) following it’s recent makeover.
The refurbishment has, to the delight of locals, kept to the pub’s traditional values of being family friendly whilst adding a modern slant with live sport, retro board games, live music, craft beer, quizzes, and top value food. Even the (almost secret) garden with kids’ area has got in on the works.
Loyal to its local customers after two hundred years, the pub, renamed from ‘Crown’ to ‘Half Crown’ after half of it was accidentally demolished in the sixties, has long been more than just a watering hole for Benfleet.
“The Half Crown is a great pub,” said manager Tess Masic. “It’s community pubs like ours that are needed in today’s society and we pride ourselves on offering a warm welcome to everyone.”
The restored look is fresh whilst traditional bric-a-brac includes old pictures Tess discovered in the cellar. There’s additions of craft beer Brewdog Punk IPA, a range of eight gins, and even sports table service that ensures spectators never miss a goal.
Rebecca Harris MP said: “It was great to see a company investing in the future of this popular local pub. My grandmother was a landlady for many years and I am well aware of importance of community pubs in me. It’s really important to support and look after our heritage. The Half Crown has been there for a long time and I hope it will continue serve the community for many years to come”
The Easter Bank Holiday weekend is set to be a big when the thrill of the pub’s football team’s cup final result will be known on Friday, ahead of a night of live music on Saturday.
Great value is the key to pub grub with two meals at a brilliantly priced £8.49 such as Fish & Chips and Beef & Ale Pie all day every day. Burgers from Classic Beef to Three-way Chicken, Grills and Build-your-own Planks for the ultimate socialites alongside different offers every day keep eating ‘down the pub’ interesting.
Monday blues are combatted with selected beer and wine at £2.25 a pint/glass; Tuesday and Wednesday offers live sport and board games; Thursday is quiz and play your cards right; and Friday Funday, Saturday live music and Sunday roasts with live sport and kids activities top the week off.
“If you haven’t enjoyed the welcome at the Half Crown, it really is worth a look as we set the next chapter in the pub’s history,” added Tess. “We’ve kept everything customers love, but refreshed the look and feel so life down the pub is even more relaxing.”
25-27 High Street, Benfleet, Essex, SS7 1NA, 01268 754 527
Opening hours Sunday – Thursday midday-11pm; Friday & Saturday midday to midnight
Ends
27th March 2018
For more information please contact:
Lucy Macfarlane