I had given up my attempt to walk across Cannock Chase in a downpour, so on my way back to Birmingham on the train, thought I'd have a look round Walsall, as you do. I circled all round the town and back to what I'd...thought looked the most promising pub. I like this brewery chain, anyway, and the front looked elegant, unlike much of Walsall, which exudes neglect. The pub was even more terrific inside. It comprises a grand complex of rooms on various levels, all beautifully carpeted and furnitured in a plush, traditional style. The main bar is gorgeous, all artistically furbished in art deco style, and with a food hatch which looked like something from the 1920s. The barmaid was friendly and fun, and she turned out to be the landlady's daughter. They bantered forth with each other between the main bar and the food hatch, and with the clutch of regulars sitting opposite the bar counter in what one of them called the drinkers' tables. By chance I was in the midst of that lot, and so I found myself chatting merrily with the various characters who drifted in and out. I think I had 5 different pints from the vast range on offer, including BFG, Pig on the Wall, and Heel Stone. All were well priced and kept, and induced no after effects except happiness. Walsall may have its critics, but both this pub and its lovely characters were pure class.More
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