Horwich: The Crown entered to Good Beer Guide for 25th year

The Crown on Chorley New Road in Horwich has been recognised by the UK’s best selling beer guide consistently for a quarter of a century.

But managers Beverly and Gary Parker, who have been married for 32 years, say they don’t intent to rest on their laurels.

Beverly said: “Obviously we`re absolutely thrilled to be appreciated this way again.

“But we never stop working hard to make The Crown such a welcoming place to come and enjoy great beer.”

The Crown, on Chorley New Road in Horwich (Image: Joseph Holt)

She added: “We really are proud of what we have achieved, and which we can only do with the help of our loyal and hardworking staff.

“We offer a warm welcome to everyone, no one ever feels lonely here.”

The original Crown Hotel was created in 1786 and was believed to have been a staging post on Turnpike Road.

It was rebuilt in 1886 with the arrival of the Railway Works and in 2017 it was awarded a civic plaque by Horwich Town Council as recognition for operating as a pub for over 230 years.

The pub, now owned by Joseph Holt, received a gold award by the Campaign for Real Ale as part of the organisations 50th anniversary.

The Parkers, who have two children and one grandchild, moved into The Crown in 1998 and since it has become well know for its homecooked food and a range of activities.

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These include a writer’s group, a chess club, as a place to host morris dancers on St George`s Day and the starting place for the Rivington Pike Fell Race.

The pub also hosts regular “chill and chat” sessions on Wednesday mornings, where people can meet for tea, cake, and company.

For Beverly, a member of the Inner Wheel international women’s friendship organisation, and Gary, a Rotarian, all of these are all part of the essential functions the pub provides to its community.

Joseph Holt area manager Liz Hardman added: “We are thrilled that once again The Crown has featured in the Good Beer guide, reflecting much deserved recognition as a place to enjoy traditional beers and a pub which serves the heart of the community.

“We are so proud.”