A former barmaid has bought the historic North Somerset pub she pulled her very first pint in. As a teenager, Emma Lomas told her mum she was going to work in the Crown Inn in Churchill.
Twelve years on, she’s now in charge – taking over the historic hostelry from Karen Clements. And Emma has pledged the “very special” pub will remain just as it is.
The 18th century inn has been named among the best for several years running by the Good Pub Guide. And last year the guide hailed it as one of England’s best unspoilt pubs.
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Judges have previously described it as “untouched by time”, boasting access to some of the finest views and walks in the Mendips. The pub is lit by candles, warmed by log fires and known for its substantial lunches.
Emma, 31, who breeds prize-winning horses in Sandford, said: “I used to ride past the pub at 17 and told mum I’d work there. The Crown’s very special, with loyal customers who feared it might change once Karen left.
“Everyone feels like family. I’ve a brilliant team, including my mum, Helen. It’s daunting taking on a place so treasured but it doesn’t feel like work because I love it and nothing will change.”
The pub’s charms have attracted visitors from Australia, New Zealand and New York and you might also have spotted it on the small screen. It recently featured in Channel 4’s True Love series starring Sue Johnston, Lindsay Duncan and Clarke Peters.
The pub’s previous owner Karen, 61, took on The Crown in 2013 with husband Brian, who successfully battled cancer but died of pneumonia in 2020.
She said: “It was lockdown and I was in shock. Brian had put so much into the pub I couldn’t leave. Eighteen months later customers flocked back but it’s now time for me to stop.
“You don’t own The Crown, you are its custodian. I didn’t want a big brewery to take over.”
Customer Mike Winter, 79, said: “I’ve been coming here for nearly 40 years. It’s the atmosphere, the great ales and wonderful lunches.
“I’m delighted Emma’s taking over. She knows everyone and will keep this unique pub the same.”
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