There was standing room only when Shepherd Neame officially re-opened its historic Rochester pub, The Royal Crown, following a £1.2m refurbishment.
Shepherd Neame chief executive, Jonathan Neame, and the Dean of Rochester Cathedral, the Very Rev Philip Hesketh, outside the Royal Crown
The Shepherd Neame steam wagon brought some vintage cheer to the streets of Rochester as it chugged its way from the historic dockyard, where it is based, to the grade II listed pub.
The building, overlooking the River Medway, and a short walk from Rochester Castle, has undergone an extensive renovation, which has retained and enhanced its historic features, while introducing a stylish and contemporary look and feel.
The Dean of Rochester Cathedral, the Very Rev Philip Hesketh, pulled the first pint before blessing it and the pub with a specially-written blessing. The Dean also blessed a hop garland, provided by William and Caroline Alexander, of Castle Farm in Shoreham.
Shepherd Neame chief executive, Jonathan Neame, presented representatives from the Medway Queen Preservation Society and the Rochester City Centre Forum, which raises funds for the town’s Christmas lights, with donations of £1,000 each.
“We are delighted to officially celebrate the re-opening of The Royal Crown, after what is undoubtedly a remarkable refurbishment,” said Jonathan.
General manager, Tom Crackett, raises a glass to the Royal Crown, with Shepherd Neame’s steam wagon in the background
“Our team have worked incredibly hard to bring this project to fruition, revitalising a building steeped in history, which is now serving today’s customers with a warm welcome, in a stunning setting. I am certain that The Royal Crown, led by general manager Tom Crackett, will continue to go from strength to strength.”
The Dean said: “I was delighted to bless the first pint in the beautifully renovated Royal Crown, just a stone’s throw from Rochester Cathedral. It was also heartwarming to see Shepherd Neame giving back to the community with its two generous donations to local groups.”
The pub’s transformation has received positive feedback from many, including Rochester and Strood MP Kelly Tolhurst, who said: “I have used The Royal Crown all my adult life and have many fond memories of the pub.
“I, of course, welcome the investment by a local company, Shepherd Neame, that has provided The Royal Crown with a new lease of life. Just in time to enjoy plenty of Christmas cheer!”
