Old Bush, Wolverhampton

Now a Black Country Ales pub, the interior has been opened out (as they do to all of their pubs), but it still retains the shape of the old rooms so it's not so bland as some. My visit was on a chilly afternoon, but two real fires helped to keep the cold at bay. The outside has been given a makeover and should be good if the sun shines! Usual BCA ales on tap, plus 6 guest ales and 2 cider pulls. I had the Bullseye stout (one of two on offer) which was in lovely condition, there was quite a few customers so the other beers must be good as well. I have to mention the cobs, which are gigantic. They will easily last for two pints and are more than nice. I'll definitely pop in again.

Very much a local, compared with The Vine next door, albeit one with a slightly confusing layout. The open door when I visited was at the right-hand end and led into the simple bar area with a dartboard. This in turn leads to the snug which also has its own doorway (although this may not be in regular use). The lounge is accessed via a third door at the other end of the building, and this part also has a small patio terrace at the front. Disappointingly, no real ale available from any of the various handpumps, so made do with a keg Banks's Original mild (£3.10).

Right next door to The Vine. A bit rough around the edges and no ale on offer. It was a toss up between Banks's Mild and Guinness. The black stuff won so I had a quick one and moved on.