The Boat & Railway, Bromsgrove

A detached Banks's pub and resturant mainly in undressed brick, but with some painted white. The pub is by the side of the canal, and has a patio both sides - also near the railway, hence the name. The interior has tow areas, in the large, but lower level extension there is the carvery and restaurant area - this was closed up at my late visit. The main bar/lounge room is a U-shape around the serving bar. The decor is red and green, with a white ceiling and beams. There is a bar menu served in this area as well. There is a lot of canal and railway pictures on the walls, not surprisingly, as well as ephemera. There was a TV, with the Villa losing to Rapid Vienna on it, so i wasn't too happy. The place looked fine, though the seating was a bit tired looking. The service was fine and the clientele a few mixed locals. The music was general and at a decent level. Beer; tap stuff with Pedgiree, as well as a decent enough Banks's Bitter and MILD on handpull. Along with the Bowling Green, Stoke Prior has a couple of nice pubs. I shall have to go back and visit my friend again soon, to revisit them and a few of the other in the area. I think a drink in the sunshine, by the canal, would be very nice here.

Visited this lovely homely Banks pub at the weekend a few times as we were caravanning at a rally nearby. The Banks Bitter and Mild were superb. The mild pumpclip has now changed from Original to Mild. Also had a Burtonwood guest on called Top Hat. The outside seating area is a long covered walkway type area alongside the canal, and is lovely in the evening with candles on the tables. Large carvery restaurant with daily carveries, and a good menu choice for food too.