Divided into distinct areas and with extensive outside seating, this former Wetherspoon pub retains its original Truman exterior tiling thanks to the local history society. The freehold is now owned by a private investor and is his first pub venture. LT Management also run a chain of pubs around South Shields. Since 2021, Alex, the manager had held the lease from the owner but it terminated and the pub closed on 22 May 2022.

Luckily it reopened in November, with cask beer still available at very reasonable prices, although limited to the single house beer from Greene King. The food is also good value. TVs show major sporting events.

Press release - 'We are thrilled to announce that the Crown and Sceptre has re-opened just in time for the World Cup!! The new team are set on bringing the community back to the pub and restoring it’s good old days by reconnecting with the locals. Expect new weekly events, live music, DJs, a tasty new food & drinks menu (including cocktails!), pub quiz themed nights and more, and you can catch all the sport across it’s 5 50 inch LED screens! The 500 square foot pub is also available for private hire, and offers 9 fully kitted out bedrooms for any guests looking to stay.'

Let us hope that Lambeth will block any longer term development proposals that would run contrary to their own and Greater London's rigorous pub protection policies.