Bird In Hand, Telford

Older than the iron bridge according to its big sign, up some steps from river level presumably to avoid the frequent floods here. Two rooms, one marked Lounge and the other Dining Room but there's little to choose in terms of décor or furnishing. Both are very pubby in the mid to late 20th Century style – lots of brass and nic-nacks on white walls with the odd bit of half timbering. There is also a preponderance of wrought iron, on the windows and in the shape of the iron bridge over the neat and unusual lounge fireplace. Lots of interesting pictures of the bridges and the gorge. The other room has a weapons corner. There are three pulls on each bar counter with Ruddles and a guest from Ludlow in excellent condition, this was in spite of the Banks's signage. A collection of pump clips hints there is a thriving guest beer policy. I think I was the only casual drinker on my evening visit, the other middle aged customers appeared to be just finishing their dinner or being tempted to pudding.

This pub has a large Banks's sign on the roadside and also a Banks' plaque on the wall of the pub, so it's a pleasant surprise to find two handpumps with two Goff's beers on, Jouster and Galahad. The Galahad was a very good pint. There are two small rooms, both set up for dining with black and white décor and horse brasses around the walls. There are two outside terraces with seating and a beer garden at the side which has some kids play equipment. It's a decent enough looking pub and the beer was good but there were far too many untethered brats around for my liking.

Official site of the Bird in Hand - www.birdinhand1774.co.uk

Official site of the Bird in Hand - www.birdinhand1774.co.uk