The Craven Arms, Birmingham

Have visited a few times recently after being a regular in the early seventies. Real ale selection is impressive. Came third in CAMRA Birmingham pub of the year 2013. Highly recommended.

Grade 11 listed, stand alone traditional local just a stones throw away from the Mailbox complex and tucked well away from the hustle and bustle of the City centre.There were 9 casks on the go on my Saturday lunchtime visit with every pump having an hand written description detailing the beers properties.I have been taxing my brain to recall which one I sampled (possibly from the Bexar brewery) that was described as having a smoked ham flavour and the Landlord stating it had a slight haze to it. The beer soon lost it's head but found the taste ok although the slight haze was more akin to the fog on the Tyne.Worth seeking out even if it is just to admire the tilework.

The Craven Arms page at the Black Country Ales site - www.blackcountryales.co.uk

The Craven Arms page at the Black Country Ales site - www.blackcountryales.co.uk

Enjoyed my first visit to this pub since the refurbishment. It was packed and there was a good buzz. Difficult to get past the bar area as very narrow between the bar and tables, not a lot can be done about that I suppose as folks will tend to crowd the bar. We did get a seat however and there was a good list of the beers available, also foreign bottles in a fridge. We had beers from Black Country Ales and Traditional Scottish Ales, both in great condition, and served by friendly staff who were coping well with the crowded pub. Good luck to them. Great to see a traditional pub doing so well in the city.