The Billesley, Birmingham

Vast suburban pub, now run by Greene King under its Hungry Horse brand, but certainly not the worst. Several different seating and dining areas, two bar counters and several main entrances with 'Welcome' signs above. Disappointingly though, just Abbot (albeit in good shape but oddly priced at £4.16) available from the various handpumps.

Official site of The Billesley - www.hungryhorse.co.uk

Official site of The Billesley - www.hungryhorse.co.uk

This is a massive 1930s estate pub, which once had a bowling green - it replaced the Billesley Arms, a pub that had been on the site since the later Victorian period at least. The current place is a Hungry Horse pub/eatery, with kids' play areas, patios and, i think, a whacky warehouse - as well as tress with lights on them. It is in mock-Tudor style, with a brick lower and white and beam (light painted) upper. The interior is of course all open plan, aimed at food (with an adults dining area) and a small bar with darts and pool. It has the silent TVs, music and kid's grabbing machines. The decor is the usual dog's dinner - patterned wallpapers, red, mustard, green, blue, wood panel et al. The comfy chairs and high stools are accompanied by large light shades and some arty pictures. It lacks soul, as these places do. I didn't eat so can't comment on that. The service was fine and it was busy with a mixed clientele. Beer; usual keg stuff, with a Brazilian lager and GK IPA, IPA Gold and Abbot on handpull. The Gold was OK. A place i went a lot after footy in the 80s - it was far better then.

Currently undergoing refurbishment and will return as a Hungry Horse.