The Malt House, Birmingham

Official site of The Malt House - www.greeneking-pubs.co.uk

Official site of The Malt House - www.greeneking-pubs.co.uk

A former maltings,but the "olde worlde" faux interior doesn't make use of any original features,and feels quite corporate.Greene King insignia on the outside doesnt instill confidence,but it's clean and tidy.There is a mix of furniture on the bar level,some high tables,lots of fitted benches,some raised areas,while the upstairs level has more conventional dining tables but with a balcony giving great views over Farmer Bridge Junction,the real heart of the West Midlands canal system with lots of boating action.Greene King pub grub menus much in evidence. There was a positive surprise on the real ale front,with three of the six pumps carrying Silhill Pure Star,Gold Star and Blonde Star (decent).The other three had GK IPA,Robinsons Trouper and a third regular reversed. I was in during a quiet period,on summer weekends I have seen it rammed which may colour your experience.Better than my worst fears,and better than a lot of identikit bars in the immediate area.

Large 2 floor canal side Taylor Walker pub. Real ales and food served.

Canalside pub at the back corner of the entertainment area around Brindley Place, but on the doorstep of the NIA, albeit over the canal bridge. Its a nice brick building with a balcony and terrace but I always find it gets missed in favour of the other bars which is a shame as its potentially a nice place. Large open plan inside with a fairly standard layout. One real ale - Beartown Ginger Beer on my visit, strange choice perhaps when there is only one beer?

A good spot to sit outside with a beer. Can get really mobbed, especially being so close to the NIA. Staff are pleasant enough and serve some interesting ales. We were served a Stonehenge Brewery, Autumn Envy, which was green - that's a first for me! The interior needs a bit of sprucing up, but apart from that, it's alright.