The Bowling Green, Bromsgrove

Interesting old Banks's country pub near the Worcester & Birmingham Canal, named after the sporting facility that can still be found at the rear. Also retains three separate bars, two at the front (with the first room being little more than a snug) and a larger lounge at the back, all pleasantly traditional in appearance. Also does food, but I timed my visit badly as the Bromsgrove Folk Festival is held here in the camp site at the back and no further orders were being taken. However, I stayed for a pint, and found the regular Bitter and Mild (£3.35, which must be a festival price) plus Wainwright available on handpump from the central servery.

Popped in for a pint and a butty after taking my damaged car to be looked at for repairs nearby. The pub is a large Banks emporium with a bowling green at the back. I sat in the back room, whick is now painted off white with pink skirting and detail. i sampled a pint of Marstons EPA which was excellent as was the ham butty with chips. Also on the bar was Banks Bitter and Mild as well as some smooth keg stuff. The bar staff were pleasent and the food arrived quickly. Toilets were excellent and the car park was huge. just what a proper pub should be, will call again when the car gets fixed.

This is a detached Banks's canal-side pub in cream, with green paintwork. It has a Bowling Green at the back (shock, horror), which is home to the Stoke Prior Bowling Club. It is also a music venue, particularly for folk music - sad i missed that and there is a camping area and play area for the kids. The interior has three main rooms. There is a front bar to the right on entry, which is in green and white walls, with green leather seating. It is traditional, with old canal pictures, brasses, with a dart board (a few trophies and sports pictures too) and has a fireplace. This room allows access to a second bar room, also in green, with settles and mirrors, but this room was in darkness at my visit. A small side area to the left on entry had a few fruit machines. At the back there is the lounge, which is in white and wood panel. There is a variety of ephemera, including books and has a view of the bowls. A central serving bar covers all three rooms. The service was fine, the clientele mixed locals and bowlers, there was soft general backgroung music and a TV, in the bar, that wasn't on. Beer; tap stuff with Marston's EPA, Banks's Bitter and a decent Banks's MILD on handpull. I really liked it here, the beer was fine and it felt traditional and friendly. With the bowls it felt a community hub. You wont be disappointed to visit, unless you hate bowls of course.

Found this Banks pub while in the area but hadn't much time for more than a quick half. Beer was fine and it was friendly enough. Dogs welcome and there is plenty of seating outside in a lovely grassy garden as well as round the bowling green.