The Crown Inn, Brompton on Swale under new ownership

The Crown Inn is a beloved local pub, sitting at the heart of the community in the village of Brompton on Swale, near Richmond.

After its predecessors, who were at the helm for almost three decades, decided to leave the pub business, Nigel and Lizzie Druery stepped in to make their mark on the venue.

Inside The Crown Inn (Image: PUNCH PUBS)

With the hospitality industry and passion for pubs running through their veins, Nigel and Lizzie’s decision to become the next guardians of The Crown Inn was an easy one, according to the couple.

Lizzie said: “We’ve lived in the village for 16 years and in all honesty, we’ve watched and waited for this pub to become available.

“We’ve always visited here as customers, it’s a fantastic pub and the potential here is huge. When we were approached by Joe and Morag who asked if we were interested, we immediately set up the call.”

Nigel and Lizzie Druery (Image: PUNCH PUBS)

Nigel and Lizzie are both no strangers to the industry, having worked in and run pubs since the age of 16, the duo couldn’t wait to get stuck in and take the Crown pub to the next level.

Despite having been away from the pub world since the birth of their son Noah, 10 years ago, Lizzie said her return as landlady was a natural step.

“For me, coming back to pubs after a break feels incredibly special,” Lizzie said.

“This pub is one on its own, it has a huge community feel and everyone in the village wants it to succeed. It’s the opinions of guests that inspired us to take it on in the first place.

“We wouldn’t be in this position without our team, all of whom are also local to the village. Everyone has chipped in to see the Crown Inn come to life again, the late nights, cleaning and organising have all paid off because we all want it to succeed.”

The pub has undergone a minor transformation (Image: PUNCH PUBS)

When transitioning into the pub, Nigel and Lizzie had numerous plans underway to ensure that the Crown is also fully inclusive for guests of all ages to enjoy.

Their first and most noticeable change is in switching out the pub’s pool table and creating a spacious room for guests to dine, relax and soak up the atmosphere.

The new-found refurbished space will also be available for private functions.

Describing it as “traditional pub grub”, Lizzie and Nigel are both passionate about cooking and have curated a menu consisting of stone-baked pizzas, homemade lasagne and curries.

The new owners have committed to make ongoing changes (Image: PUNCH PUBS)

Lizzie added: “We want to ensure we’re catering for the whole community. We have a large elderly population here in Brompton and something like a tea and bingo morning is just one of the ideas to bring something for all.

“We have also bought a range of board games; we have darts and two television screens so we’re hoping to show sports shortly.

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“It is paramount for us that everyone in the community has a reason to visit. You may not be looking to dine in, but Nigel is very passionate about having a great selection of real ales, craft beers and premium lagers which could become your reason to visit.

"Likewise, if you’re looking to enjoy a glass of wine with friends, we’ve created a cosy seated area removing the old stools and replacing them with chairs for a friendlier feel. We’re also dog-friendly, which is perfect for visiting guests and walkers!

“Nigel, the team and I have listened to what the community feels is missing and I’m already proud of what we’ve achieved since taking over.”