Bird In Hand, Stourport-On-Severn

A lovely canalside pub, multi roomed inside much too complicated to describe. Although modern in part, screens, machines etc it’s still relatively unspoiled. A tiny servery near the front roadside accesses two rooms, one doesn’t look well used, the canalside conservatory and the front and rear gardens were well patronised however. Three hand pumps with Hobsons, Holdens and Wye Valley beers, a T-Bar and a couple of solos take care of keg lovers. Classic decor in brown and cream, low wooden beamed ceilings, all in all a splendid pub. An old but friendly dog seems to inhabit the place.

Interesting canal-side pub that ought to be good but which got me slightly narked by not serving food during the advertised hours, but then giving me a story about the chef having called in sick when I gained a strong impression that said person was actually sitting on the customers' side of the bar enjoying a pint. I made do with an annoying good Holden's Golden Glow (£4.10) out in the beer garden which might once have been a bowling green? Some patio benches can also be found closer to the waterway, and the other real ale available from the bank of four handpumps was Butty Bach.