The Lamp Tavern, Walsall

Cottage-style locals pub with a L-shaped layout with a little lounge to the left of the entrance and the main seating area extending back on the other side of the compact bar counter. Given a basic semi-modern refurbishment at some stage, but the generally dark colours give a rather gloomy feel. Sports TVs, dartboard and the linked Punka Walla restaurant in a separate building on the right-hand side at the back. No cask ale of course, and even the Worthington's was off, so resorted to a Madri (£3.70) before moving on.

Roadside pub with an Indian attached (Panka Walla). No ales. A long row of tall keg taps with various fizzy drinks. You could hardly see the barmaid behind them! Had a Madri which was the same as it always is!

This is a newer Holden's pub that they took over in 1993. It appears to have had an extension added to the rear and right. Unlike many Holden's pubs it is a single room but segregated into smaller areas, which may be due to the fact that it is not one of their original pubs. My visit was enhanced by the appearance of a boxer dog who came over to say hello, I could only see three beers on offer, Holden's Mild, Bitter and Golden Glow. I went for the Golden Glow which sadly was rather vinegary. I hope this was just a blip and that the new Spoons up the road isn't making them suffer. This isn't one of the best Holden's pubs around but is worth a look.