The Butlers Arms, Sutton Coldfield

We popped in here on the way back to the train station and found this good sized pub very respectable with a relaxed atmosphere. The majority of the customers were in for a bite to eat from the extensive fish menu. Four handpumps with two in use, serving TT Landlord and Sharps Sea Fury. Their beer was in good condition and the service was efficient with a friendly smile, so well worth a visit.

Most of the West Midlands pubs I visited last Thursday are part of large chains. This one was one of only a couple that bucked the trend and as such was one of my two favourite pubs of the day. The interior is bright and airy. Walking in from the car park, you pass some old hairdresser's seating on the way to the bar. In fact, much of the furniture is quite eclectic. Blackboards advertised the fish of the day and two groups arrived for lunch whilst I was there. The young girls behind the bar were friendly and cheerful. Although the one did pour me a pint when I'd only asked for a half! The real ale choice was Castle Rock Harvest Pale, Titanic Plum Porter & Backyard Modern State. My Modern State was very enjoyable and I could quite easily have drunk the pint. Be careful to enter your registration number if having used the car park. It seems that all pub car parks in this area are very strict about their use by customers only. A bright and friendly family-owned pub that is worth a visit.

This pub / restaurant (dating from the 1930s?) benefits from an attractive symmetrical façade with geometrical patterned glazing in the front bow windows. Partly opened-out out inside of the central bar to leave a staple-shaped layout with general seating on one side and a dining room on the other. Tastefully furnished in a semi-modern style and having a generally relaxed atmosphere, and there is a small patio area at the front. Four real ales on handpump: Black Sheep, Landlord, Adnams Mossic and Backyard Marynka IPA (£4.10).

Official site of the Butlers Arms, includes menus and wine list - www.butlersarms.co.uk