The Talbot, Kidderminster

When I first came to this village over thirty years ago I recall having a swift one in a Banks's pub as the Swan hadn't opened. I can only assume it was this place which now has no conspicuous signs of ownership but is clearly part of the Marston empire. It has recently been refurbished. Inside there is a small bar area with a lounge further on that was completely set out for dining and on one side a verandah overlooking a huge car park. The interior has carpets, beams and wood panelled walls with an assortment of tables and chairs. There was an easy listening seventies muzak soundtrack on which didn't go down very well. The bar has four hand pumps which on my visit had Wychwood Hobgoblin Gold & Rough Tackle, Jennings Cumberland and Ringwood Boondoggle. It seemed a shame that given the Dudley post code there was nothing from Banks's but I went for the Hobgoblin Gold (£3.09) which was in decent nick and cheaper than I expected. Despite being rather food orientated it's not a bad place and worth a visit.

Dating from the early 1600s this is a large half timbered traditional pub , a rare survivor with a bar and two lounges , both with alcoves and a resturant upstairs , lots of wood and low beams give a traditional feel , service is friendly as were the locals , beers were from the Marstons stable Pedigree and EPA with a couple of local guests (did not notice them till to late) Friendly country pub worth a visit if passing