The Fountain, Stourbridge

All depends what you are after. This is not a casual, drinking pub. Its a very popular gastropub, with liveried service and a suitably expansive menu. Lunch time Prixe Fixe is £21 for 2 courses, with some dishs a supplement (beef wellington, an extra tenner). NYE Lunch and walkins were being turned away. The food is very good. Service, not quite as efficient - especially when they are busy. Table next to us were moaning. Two real ales on - Brakspear Oxford Gold in reasonable condition. Go for the food (book first).

Upmarket food-led Banks's pub on the edge of the country park - nearly all laid up for dining inside, but plenty of space out on the front patio terrace to enjoy the sunset on a fine evening. It also has a skittle alley at the back which harks back to its humbler roots. EPA, Wainwright and Brakspear Oxford Gold (£3.90) available from three of four handpumps on the counter.