The Shakespeare, Birmingham

I liked this pub before it became a Nicholson's and I still like it, despite looking just like any other Nicholson's inside - probably because it was less than half full so I had plenty of space to myself yesterday lunchtime. I also noted that, unlike its Birmingham sister pub of the same name, it sells crisps and pork scratchings (albeit the latter items are stored in a large jar behind the counter) - surely this are better snacks to go with a pint than olives! I therefore prefer it to the Lower Temple Street pub. I have experienced Danny's death defying ring road chicken run to get there on an earlier visit but I have sinced discovered it's much easier to walk from the St Phillip's Cathedral / Wellington pub area down Newhall Street (off Colmore Row) as far as Great Charles Street Queensway, crossing over Great Charles Street and then turning left - it's then just around the corner on the right, just after Civic House. Mighty fine selection of ales were Oakleaf Brewing Hole Hearted, Hadley's Blonde, Sharp's Doom Bar, Purity UBU, Marston's Pedigree and and and and 2009 Champion Beer of Britain Rudgate Ruby MILD. I'll go back, no doubt.

The latest Nicholson's in central Birmingham. Its rather similar in decor to the other Nicholson's Shakespeare and rather bizarre they have kept the same name as their sister pub. Its a strange choice of location for their next venture. Its probably slightly bigger than the other and there is also a terrace at the rear. L slaped bar in corner of front room, dark wall paper with some high tables and stools, the others more traditional lower ones, and a more former dining area at the back down the corridor, with a small alcove in between , enough room for one table. Pictures of both Old Brum and the bard adorn the walls. Although close, its a little difficult to get to from the City Centre, because of the various stairs, alleys, subways or road crossings you would have to make, but its still within walking distance. It sits next to the local college, but not sure the Nicholson's prices would attract that trade. It is quite close to the (current) central library and access is available from the middle of the Paradise Place shops here. I'm not sure its worth the walk from the centre, though there were 6 real ales of excellent quality, there is the very contrasting Apres bar next door that sells 2 real ales and it could also be on a route from the City to the Jewellery Quarter. No try before you buy here. Usual Nicholson's menu. 7 1/2 out of 10 for me.