The Radcliffe Arms, Kidderminster

The number 3 bus from Kidderminster to Stourport goes through this estate. The pub resides on the far side of a green and I have often wondered about this pub. Having time on my hands and the right bus ticket for unlimited travel, I decided the time was right to investigate. Its quite funny as the barlady - who has worked there for 34 years - can see everything through the massive windows. When she saw me looking at a later number 3, she commented "have you missed your bus". Good job I saved by photo taking for a more clandestine moment. Inside, there is a main bar - long, no cask, Guinness for £5.20. Two TVs on showing motorsport. A darts game in full flight. A couple of solo drinkers. There was a room to the side of the bar - I could only hear voices and didnt investigate. The bar lady was wonderful - knowing everyone by name and knowing everyones history. It made me laugh when some very young kids came in unaccompanied for a glass of water from the playground. Dont think I have ever had to give way at a bar to an under 7 :-) I left feeling quite heartwarmed, seeing that community stills exists. Sure to call in again. When I have the correct ticket :-)

Classic estate pub. Everyone has used one at some point but most are now gone. No ale of course so a quick keg Brew XI at £3.90. Not going to draw many strangers in but popular with the locals. These pubs are the heart of many communities and I'm glad to see this one surviving. Happy to have called in.

Proper, old-school estate pub: once so many, now so few... Retains both bars (one with a pool room beyond), both lightly refurbished at some stage but otherwise little changed since it was built. Basic furniture and little decoration. No real ale from a very disused handpump on each counter, so keg Brew XI (£3.40) it had to be. However, friendly enough to a random stranger walking in.