Yard Of Ale, Birmingham

The interior is very dated and horrible by current standards, but I would hate to see it change, because as people have said it serves as reminder for the horrific events during the troubles. On a brighter note if you arrive early for a film at the Odeon next door but one it's super to drop in for a quickie.

Somewhat shabby cellar bar within the main pedestrianised area. Fake beams, worn carpet, slightly musty smell. Could have been used as a set for “Life On Mars?” Has 6 handpumps but only 4 were on. These were Brakspear Oxford Gold, Ringwood Seventy Eight, Marston's Merrie Monk and Wychwood Rye Smile. I had a pint of the Merrie Monk, it wasn't very good, not bad enough to be sent back, but it was getting close. Another negative was that there were 3 guys stood at the bar all a bit pissed and one of them just wouldn't stop swearing despite a large number of females present. Having someone loudly shout “You F**king C**t” every couple of minutes is really not needed. I can think of lots of other places to stop off on my way to the station, so I don't think I'll be bothering with this one again.