The Kings Head, Harborne

only usually about 3 (often wye valley) ales on and well kept with friendly bar staff. Most food is apparently locally sourced and of good quality, the pizzas a particular highlight - but shame about 2 for 1 being discontinued! Outside decked area is well equipped with strong heaters - on weekends the upstairs tends to be used as a mini nightclub (sometimes a charge)

7 Sep 2014 04:15

The Midland, Bearwood

massive range of well kept ales as you'd expect from a black country ales pub, but with high ceilings (former bank) and cheapish fittings it has the soulless feel of a miniature wetherspoons - but don't don't let that put you off

7 Sep 2014 04:03

The Plough Inn, St Asaph

In response to previous poster, the pub has not changed hands for about 15years, although bar managers come and go. The dress code is permissive during the day, and many of those milling around in shorts and vests were likely staff off duty. However, most Saturday nights seem to have doormen upholding the policy and sometimes charge for entry (when live music is playing). It can get VERY busy to the point of one-in-one-out policy in place on such nights.
Although lively on the weekend evenings and football matches (especially Liverpool), its usually pretty quiet and somewhat cosy next to the wood burning stove fireplace. Unlike in the past, there is now a good choice of local ales which are very well kept. Last time I was there, they were even selling Wrexham Lager!
Upstairs, as well as a restaurant, is a dedicated cocktail bar and the staff seem quite knowledgeable. Outside, there are patio heaters and picnic tables surrounding the building, giving adequate warmth and shelter for smokers. Definitely worth calling in for a quiet drink during the week, or a lively night at the weekend.

19 Feb 2014 13:31