The Beacon Way, Walsall

Estate-type pub on the eastern edge of Bloxwich, but that description doesn't really do the place justice since it is much better than most of that ilk. The 'L'-shaped, opened-out interior retains a different feel in the two parts, with a quieter but smarter lounge and a busier public bar area with the pool table, etc. With a customer base extending across all ages, it obviously serves its whole community well (which is great to see). Additionally, not only does it do real ale from three handpumps, but the Abbot is supplemented by Hobson's Citra Mosaic and a decent Enville Ale (£3.30). Overall, with a friendly welcome and an obviously efficient bar team, this was an unexpected pleasure to visit.

Unable to give a review in full as we couldn't get in the car park for the cars belonging to the parents collecting children from the nearby school, but I can add the car park.

Formerly the Nags Head, the Beacon Way styles itself as a pub restauarant these days