Alma, Crystal Palace

Situated on the busy Crystal Palace Triangle, this upmarket pub is a popular venue amongst all the other bars and restaurants, which the area is noted for. Located on the London borough boundary between Bromley and Croydon on Church Road, this was part of the growing suburb following the relocation of the Crystal Palace Exhibition in 1854.

Inside, the pub is formed of a large square with a central L-shaped bar and a high ceiling. The traditional character has been given a tasteful makeover with a mix of old and contemporary using a sea green décor complemented by exposed brickwork and large mirrors. With wooden flooring throughout, the wooden panelled bar has grey supporting pillars along with several original fireplaces and a piano in one corner. The mix of wooden tables and chairs are accompanied by bench seating along the large windows that bring in plenty of light. Candles are everywhere.

Free of tie since November 2022, this allows the pub to choose whatever beer it deems will be popular with the clientele. There are no regular cask ales, but a changing range of guests mainly from London microbreweries. Of the four handpumps present, only two are used (with a third optionally reserved for a cider). However, there is an extensive range of up to ten draught keg beers (eg. Anspach & Hobday, Cloudwater, Drop Project, Gipsy Hill, Inkspot, Kernel, Lost and Grounded, Orbit, Vault City and Villages). These can change but cover a range of beer styles from lager, porter, fruited sour and IPA. Drinks can be served from the bar to the table, especially at busy periods.

This is also popular for dining with award winning food (Harden's 2023 and 2024) from a contemporary menu with dishes cooked from fresh using seasonal ingredients. Service is friendly and welcoming.

The large enclosed patio garden is accessed to the right of the bar and is mostly covered with a huge awning with many table sets and benches plus other seating. This is heated during the winter months. Overlooked by tall trees, this offers plenty of shade during the summer months. A range of well tended plants are along one wall. Popular during the warmer weather, this can get busy, especially at weekends when the outside bar is open offering three keg beers.

In addition to the buses listed, several other routes terminate at Crystal Palace bus station, about 10-15 minutes walk away. The Capital Ring trail passes nearby on Belvedere Road for any walkers.

Instagram page is @thealmacp