The Spread Eagle, Stafford

Currently owned by Marstons, the pub is part of a motel complex, a bit like a Premier Inn. As mentioned below there is plenty of parking but very little in the way of garden other than a large adventure playground and a small smoking area. It's primarily aimed at passers-by and families, consequently lacking in any kind of pub atmosphere. The staff were reasonable, although one young man who knew it all refused to accept that beer should not look like whipped cream when it came out of the tap. There was a large population of carvery diners, most of them reasonably normal human beings, but a significant minority of obese children and their overweight mothers. Few fathers were in evidence. There was also a large crowd of coffee drinkers – actually a good thing as it helps pubs to stay open. Beers on were all from Marstons – Pedigree, Hobgoblin and Hobgoblin Gold, all desperately over-gassed but palatable once the froth had settled and they'd been topped up. OK if you like mass produced slop, half-decent carveries or need a pit-stop, and it's an acceptable choice if overnighting here or at the nearby Gailey Marina.

As previously stated this is a large family dining pub and is a pretty soulless place , very busy on my visit(virtually all familys dining) but service was good and friendly enough , 3 ales on Marstons Old Empire and Pedigree along with Bankss Bitter , the Old Empire and Bankss Bitter were OK if served a little cold . The food was decent enough value (carvery very good) Overall it was OK for a bit of Sunday lunch with friends but would not bother if just out for a drink

This large family dining pub was built in the 1930’s and is owned by Marston’s. The interior is open plan and consists of two areas either side of the central dog leg shaped wooden bar counter which is opposite the main entrance. On the left of the building is a long narrow room with a log burning stove in a fire place at the far end. To the right of the bar and down a step is a large square area with two levels and a large double sided fire place in the centre of the room. Both areas have modern décor with contemporary abstract paintings on the walls. Behind the bar is a serving area for a carvery which is very popular so expect a big queue. There is a large patio area to the left of the entrance, a huge car park that is on three sides of the pub, and an equally huge beer garden at the back, the pub claims that it has “the biggest beer garden and children’s play area you will have ever seen!” which in my case is true, its enormous! Regular ale is Banks’s Bitter with two changing guest beers from Marston’s portfolio such as Brakspear, Jennings, Ringwood or Wychwood. On my visit they were Marston’s Pedigree and Jennings Cocker Hoop. A good family pub, decent beer, a very good carvery with a choice of three meats and loads of different veg, therefore it can get very busy at meal times, in fact you may have to wait at the door to be seated by a member of staff. Not a pub for a drink with your mates but well suited for the family and special occasions.