The Bird in Hand, Stourbridge

Imposing three-storey former Marston's pub, now seemingly the newest Batham's house (although reliable information on this is currently in short supply). Little has yet changed within or without, and hopefully that will remain the case since it's a fine example of the sort of traditional pubs that are now becoming an endangered species. It retains two separate bars, with the main one at the front having a 'L'-shaped arrangement (but even this isn't very big and seating was at a premium) and a compact side lounge (little larger than a snug really). 'Just' Bitter and Mild (£2.45) available from the four handpumps, but if it's "Good Delph!" that you are after then that alone will do (even though the rarer XXX had sadly, if unsurprisingly, sold out).

A fantastic Victorian/Edwardian looking detached Banks's house, with rear beer garden. The pub is in Gothic style, being of three storeys. It is in brick with dormer windows, heavy stone lintels and sills, as well as traditional etched glass. The interior has a couple of rooms, with a larger slightly L-shaped bar and a small back lounge that was empty. The main bar room has yellow walls and white ceiling, with a couple of small fireplaces and traditional red perimeter seating and stools. The walls had lots of old photos of people and prints on the walls (trams feature). There is a dart board. There was no music, as the TV was on showing the footy. The service was fine and there were a few locals in. Beer; Banks's MILD, Bitter, Sunbeam and Brakies Oxford Gold. The MILD was decent. A tidy, traditional pub - one i will return to - worth a visit