Crown Inn given five star status by AA

The Crown Inn at Chiddingfold, Surrey has joined the select group of pubs awarded five stars by the AA.

A year after owners Daniel and Hannah Hall reopened the restored 700-year-old coaching inn, the Crown has been awarded Highly Commended status along with its five stars. There are just 10 other AA five star inns in England.

The pub has eight bedrooms and a dining room along with its traditional bar.

The AA commented: "The property has been transformed and offers guests high quality, stylish accommodation whilst retaining its original charm and character. The team work hard to offer guests a relaxed, comfortable stay with excellent customer care."

Executive chef Darren Tidd has created a new menu to mark the pub's success. One popular combination is char-grilled haloumi with a lime, pear and kiwi dressing to start, followed by saddle of new season lamb on a butterbean puree served with roasted asparagus and red wine sauce, then rhubarb fool with homemade shortbread biscuits.

Daniel Hall said: "We are lucky to continue to weather the current recession, but I believe that it is because our customers enjoy a very special experience at The Crown whether they come to the Crown for a quick drink, a light lunch, a relaxed dinner or a longer overnight stay.

"It has been a great team effort by all the staff who are extremely pleased to have received this very rare accolade from the AA in such a short time."