'Iconic' Cookham pub reopens with new owners

A longstanding Cookham pub has reopened to the public with a new look and a new menu.

The Crown in Cookham Moor has been undergoing refurbishment for two months and has reopened under new owners.

Tony Hadley of Spandau Ballet inaugurated the revamped pub on Monday, April 24 and residents from Berries Road and the High Street were invited for a pint and a chat.

An official launch party for the general public took place on Tuesday, April 25 and patrons came from all over Cookham, Maidenhead and Bourne End.

Co-owner Josh Billinghurst said: “The pub had become a little tired and people always said it needed a revamp.”

The pub has undergone significant cosmetic changes including repainting and reflooring, and the garden has been furnished with new benches and parasols.

A separate outdoor bar area is currently closed due to water damage but the owners plan to refurbish it, to serve drinks outside, and introduce a barbecue and pizza ovens for warmer months.

Josh said: “We have a brand new menu and people have been commenting on the food, saying it’s a big step up from what it was before. There’s more of a friendly atmosphere. You go inside, and all the staff are really friendly. It looks clean and smells nice. It’s just been brought back up to standard to what it should be, for The Crown.”

Josh, who grew up in Cookham, worked at The Crown 10 years ago and has now joined his father and brother in co-owning the premises.

“It’s an iconic pub, with the location, so people have said it’s nice to see it busy outside again,” he said.

The Crown will be open all bank holiday weekend ahead of the Cookham Picnic on the Moor event on Sunday afternoon.

Josh added: “There’s been a lot of overwhelmingly positive feedback and good response on social media. Many people said the food is great and the look is really good.

“People are pleased that Cookham has one of it’s number one pubs back.”