Tonbridge - my birthplace.
16/09/2016 Lesley C, Peacehaven, United Kingdom
Having been born and bred in Tonbridge every now and then I like to return and go over old ground. For the first 30 years of my life I had never stepped foot in the Rose & Crown. It then seemed quite ... more
Having been born and bred in Tonbridge every now and then I like to return and go over old ground. For the first 30 years of my life I had never stepped foot in the Rose & Crown. It then seemed quite posh and upmarket. The following 30 years I have stayed here a few times and thoroughly enjoyed the nostalgic experience. This visit I must say was very disappointing. I can forgive it the creaking floor boards and musty smell, but lots of the real character has been stripped from it. It now looks so bland - beige beams, bare and cold. Our room in the annexe/garden area was very tired and in need of decoration, but worse than that it was grubby with balls of hair in the bathroom. The car park is a bit snug and unfortunately the 2 disabled bays were usually occupied by the staff.
Having said this the staff were friendly and we had a good cooked breakfast. The location is perfect for strolling around Tonbridge. The beautiful castle is opposite, with the river Medway. There is so much history here. Also ideally located for restaurants.
I will return to Tonbridge, but might give the Rose & Crown a miss next time. less