Royal Oak, Brownhillsback to pub details please note - reviews on this site are purely the opinion of site visitors, so don't take them too seriously.
Large pub set back from a busy roadside. But unfortunately its now closed. Try the Swan (not listed on here) instead. That was the best pub I tried in Brownhills.
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I'm not generally too hard to please, but didnt like this place on a midweek evening, and as an Irishman who will drink anywhere thats saying something. I can imagine it was great in its heyday, but that has sadly passed.
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Popped in for a pint at around 6pm on a weekday about a week ago. As mentioned by others., there's a strong 1930s/Art Deco theme, using what appear to be original features as the basis (though the overall decor is well-worn). Barman seemed a bit glum, though did offer my wife a taster of one of the ales when she asked what it was like (perhaps it was easier than describing it). Can't recall exactly what we drank (that said, I 'm pretty sure I had Purity's Mad Goose), but they were very well kept and enjoyable. Friendly bunch of locals at the bar, but very few in apart from that.
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This is fairly local for me, so I sometimes pop in for Sunday lunch, which is always good, and the fine selection of ale, which always seems well kept.
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Its sad that Jimbo Smith doesnt still review - as he has it spot on with the 1930s exterior, the panelling, gramaphone and display case inside, but the walls are now a peppermint and mustard two tone look. Service was very friendly, clientel mixed, though a little quiet when i visited.
Beers: usual, no MILD, with 5 handpulls; Abbots, Tetley, Titanic Iceberg, Deuchars and TTL - which was very nice.
I liked this place, now looking just a tad tired. Will visit again.
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It's a classic, but lack of trade on my 2 visits may damage beer quality (OK for me). Superbly managed house in appearance, welcome and beer range.
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Cracking pub that is now on the way back to it's former glory. All it lacks is a few of the old regulars. Come back guys, you won't be disappointed!
Steve - 30 Aug 2004 21:49 |
When a pub is listed by camra as #decorated in an art deco style', it usually refers to no more than a bit of stripey wallpaper, but this one is different. from the original 1930s windows and bar to the carefully recreated wood panelling in the lounge, this opub oozes taste. Its even got clarice Cliff itmes in a tastefully lit display case, a 1930s gramaphone and wooden fireplace in the lounge.
All of this is offset by excellent ales - four regular and two unusual guests when we visited - and good value food.
Unfortunately, the only thing this pub lacked was customers, and we visited on a Saturday lunchtime, which is usually a busy time in the area.
Jimbo Smith - 24 May 2004 20:44 |
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