Globe Inn, Tamworth

The entrance to the Globe Inn opens onto a door straight ahead that leads to the 18 en suite rooms upstairs and the door to the bar to the left. A mix of standard and high tables at the front are looked upon by a fireplace with a television above that was airing muted Racing TV while some background music played. The serving counter with two out of four operating hand pumps (Bass and Wainwright) as well as premium keg, carling and Worthington is found mid-way up the left-hand wall. Opposite is some split-level seating where another television sits above another fireplace, although this one was off so one could escape the TV. Raised seating at the rear is used as a dining area, including for breakfast. The service was polite and the pub was clean with polished brass fixtures, well done to the friendly cleaner who said hello as I checked out in the morning. Worth a look if passing and I’d certainly stay in the hotel again.

A large imposing and austere building from the outside which made me wonder quite what sort of place I would be stepping into. Inside, however, is a really well-done modernisation in the style of a restrained Art Nouveau continental brasserie; dark mahogany and mocha shades with glass insets at the bar and on the pillars plus a lot of gleaning brass. Noticeably busy on a Friday lunchtime session compared to some other nearby outlets. Four pumps, all operational, dispensing Bass (NBSS 3.5), Wainwright, Holdens Mild (4) and some rugby themed beer. I really liked it here and it’s a Tamworth must-visit.