The Crown, Wolverhampton

Very appealing Joule's pub, with a substantial and unusually light - partially opened-out - interior still keeping various different seating / areas on each side of the central servery and in the side rooms. Of course, not all of the seemingly traditional furniture and decor is original, but the brewery has done a good job here. Pleasant front patio under the trees and a larger (and duller) rear outside seating area. Interesting selection of real ales from the nine handpumps, with three of their beers - including the Pure Blonde (£3.00) - and six guests.

Large nicely refurbished if a little forced in trying include a bit of everything. Given the choice and quality of the beer that's a minor quibble and a matter of taste; it is rightly popular. Pretty busy and buzzing along on an early Saturday evening visit. Wolverhampton Camra's country pub of the year.