Simon ParkinWHERE IS IT? Commonly referred to as the other pub in Trowse, the Crown Point lies at the top of the village on the Kirby Road, which nowadays is a dead end, for cars at least.Simon Parkin

WHERE IS IT?

Commonly referred to as the other pub in Trowse, the Crown Point lies at the top of the village on the Kirby Road, which nowadays is a dead end, for cars at least. The red brick building has a prominent position, but robbed of passing trade on a once-busy road by the building of the A47 bypass, it is now somewhere you have to purposely seek out.

WHAT'S IT LIKE?

It's cul-de-sac location hasn't unduly hampered the pub though, as the place is often packed, particularly at weekends, when the big draw is the food rather than the beer or convivial atmosphere. Inside it has a very traditional lay-out that hasn't been messed about, despite extensive improvements over the years. There are two small rooms, linked by a little corridor; the right hand of which is now part of the restaurant; the left though remains a small, cosy snug. The tiny bar, which is a tight squeeze when there's more than a couple of people serving, opens out into both rooms. The d�cor is a bit of a mix, blending the very traditional - dark wood wooden booths, red upholstery, brasses and ornaments - with more recent additions. The most recent of all is a very tastefully done conservatory, entered through the restaurant part and overlooking a small, but very smart patio-style garden.

THE DRINK

The selection has the basics you'd expect, though real ale choices are limited to three or four - Adnams Bitter, Flowers Bitter, Wolf Brewery Coyote. The thing they actually do best is wine, which perhaps shouldn't be a surprise to even the casual visitor because it's obvious that food is given top billing.

THE FOOD

The menu includes the usual pub grub, but the dishes chalked up on the board are different class. The choice isn't extensive but they seem to specialise in rather good fish dishes. Where else in these parts could you get a bowl of Cullen Skink (a substantial fish soup) for less than a fiver?

THE REGULARS

The older generation, mostly arriving by car, meaning the atmosphere is subdued rather than lively. However, if you're passing on a country walk or by bike and fancy a quick rest and liquid recuperation, you wouldn't be too disappointed. Especially if the weather allows you to sit outside.

t Crown Point Tavern, Kirby Road, Trowse, 01603 625689