The Holly Bush, Redditch

Country dining pub, once on the main A435 before it was bypassed by the dual carriageway, but now on a dead-end lane. Anyway, it's thankfully still doing reasonable business in the various seating and (mostly) dining areas within the opened-out L-shaped interior, and a light semi-modern look in all parts. Two Wye Valley cask ales on the four handpumps: the standard Butty Bach and a 4.0% Henley-in-Arden Pale (£4.80) which may be something else rebadged but in good shape anyway.

Official site of The Hollybush - www.thehollybushgorcotthill.co.uk

Official site of The Hollybush - www.thehollybushgorcotthill.co.uk

Village inn down cul-de-sac, just off main M42 - Redditch road. Its a traditional sort of place, doesn't feel particularly old inside, the ceilings are higher than olde worlde cottage type places, its carpeted with a dark wood bar, oaky tables and chairs, the odd plant here and there. Very foody, with main meals between £7 - 9. There are kids meals (crayons provided on request!) so presumably some of the early comments are now irrelevant. Whilst foody, it does still retain a little more character than an average chain style place and does keep a community feel. The service seems friendly and efficient. One real ale - Jennings Queen Bee, cold but ok