Pup and Duckling, Solihull

Fine independent micro pub in a residential area which had previously been a desert for the discerning drinker. Five or six cask ales kept in excellent condition supplemented by an array of organic ciders and wines. The service is never less than welcoming and efficient and the P&D shot to the top of CAMRA's top rated pubs almost immediately after its first few months of being open. Only gripe are the sometimes unpredictable opening hours otherwise a must visit if in the South-East border of Birmingham. An easy 8/10 and rising.

13 Feb 2018 18:55

The Hind, Leicester

Several visits down the line and as usual I wondered why I bothered. One solitary cask ale, an on-the-turn-Deuchars, did little to redress the tired glad-to-go-home service or the bellowing of the punters (admittedly the bulk were made up of post match supporters). The atmosphere was definitely becoming increasingly boisterous, although deafening rather than threatening, yet I wondered why a pub in a reasonably prime position, opposite the train station, seemed to suffer so much from management inertia. Then as I left I noticed the lease available notice outside which answered most of my wonderings. In its present condition I can't really go above 4/10.

8 May 2017 17:17

The Old Crown, Deritend

In all honesty I would struggle to recommend the Old Crown. I often find it unfriendly even though it regularly attracts a noisy boisterous crowd. The service is rudimentary and the choice of three cask ales uninspiring, Hobgoblin, Pedigree etc. A visit on the hottest night of the year so far made the pub feel humid and sticky with the toilets smelling less than fresh. Although the pub attracts visitors far and wide, often for historical reasons yet I've often questioned whether this is Brum's oldest pub or a pub currently in the oldest building. There is a difference, but I welcome clarification. The interior now has the odd nod to the spirit of the age, floral patterned walls and regulation quirkiness, but generally it's a mish mash. Very popular so obviously has attractions I can't see but I seldom include it in any Digbeth crawl. Just about notches 5/10.

20 Jul 2016 17:26