Pilton pub takes centre stage as rumors swirl about Banksy's involvement

By Laura Linham 18th Apr 2023

The Crown in Pilton has been the subject of widespread media attention recently, as rumours swirl that the anonymous graffiti artist Banksy has purchased the establishment.

Reports suggest that Banksy may be part of a group of investors who spent £1m on refurbishing the pub last year - despite pub owner Owain Powell denying that Banksy is involved.

Nevertheless, according to the national media, un-named locals are claiming the elusive Banksy is a regular visitor to the pub

The Crown is notable for its eclectic decor, which includes a glass case featuring a stuffed squirrel playing pool. It also boasts an upmarket menu, with a beef roast dinner priced at £18 and a burger and chips costing £16. Punters can expect to pay between £4.40 and £5.60 for a pint, while cocktails are priced at £9 each.

The pub also offers an extensive list of wines, with bottles of Domaine Sarcey champagne for £55.

A local kitchen porter, Pat Sumner reports that the pub is a favourite of Michael Eavis, founder of the Glastonbury Festival, who enjoys Sunday roasts there. However, he remains sceptical about rumours of Banksy's involvement, saying "Pilton is full of rumours."

A retired woman who has lived in Pilton since the 1990s praises the pub's friendliness, saying "it used to be much more unfriendly, with two people stood at the bar who would turn around and stare at you when you walked in."

She adds that the village is "very active in lots of ways," thanks in part to investment from the Eavis family.

Despite the lack of concrete evidence - and full on denials - reports of Banksy's alleged purchase of The Crown have generated significant media interest, with publications such as The Independent, The Guardian, and the Daily Mail covering the story.

     

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