Tess said when she originally won the award: “We knew a little while before the news was announced that we’d won the award but had to keep it a secret, which was a bit tricky.
“We were definitely surprised when we found out, as it’s a national award given as a result of votes by readers, which makes it all the more special. “We’re delighted to receive the award and would like to thank everyone who voted for us. It’s fantastic. “This is the first business we’ve owned and we opened in July 2014.”
More than 20 staff work at the venue. Tess and Andrew decided when opening the Crown that they would source as much local staff as possible.
The tables at the Crown were also handmade by Hastings & Bexhill Wood Recycling. The Crown also offers lots of local beers, as well as a selection of ales and ciders from 1066 Country and its surroundings, such as from Romney Marsh Brewery.
All of the work on show is by local artists. Tess said: “The artwork on the walls changes every two months and is available to buy."
Plenty to keep the family happy
With seasonal locally-sourced food on the menu, daily newspapers, dog-friendly, great music, free wifi, pop-up hairdresser, craft workshops, open fires, books and games - there is plenty to keep all the whole family happy.
Tess added: “All of the flowers in the pub come from my mother’s garden on the West Hill.” There has been a pub on the site where the Crown is located since the mid-18th century.
In awarding the pub the runner-up slot, the Observer stated:
Last year’s overall winner offers a strong showing from Sussex and Kentish producers of beer, cider and wine, plus haircuts in the pub, making it a popular tourist pit stop and a place where locals linger.
If you are thinking about starting your own business, contact us to find out what support and funding is available to help get your idea off the ground. We can also help with local specialist information and contacts, email enquiries@locateeastsussex.org.uk
Photographs: Caitlin Lock
Banner photograph: Alex Lake for the Observer
Useful links
Explore the below to find out more about how Locate East Sussex can help you.
The Crown website Food & Drink Invest in East Sussex Find the right property Our services Contact us
Hastings: celebrating the spirit of independents
Just a short walk from Hastings Station lies an area known as America Ground and Trinity Triangle – arguably Hastings’ newest cultural destination
Read More