The Weighbridge, Birmingham

Sort out as its a previously unclaimed tick in the 2017 GBG. Well worth it. Packed at midday on a Sunday and still they kept coming in. Converted house, so small rooms with crammed together tables. Tiny bar, with a chalkboard above detailing the half a dozen ales. I would have had a Wetheroak Tillermans Tipple but the bar lady wasn't happy with the quality on pouring. Now, thats a nice change! Instead, I had possibly the finest Wye Valley Butty Bach ever had. And I've had a few! Photos at http://bit.ly/2wzgGCB

Simple, attractive pub by the Alvechurch Marina, with a beer garden to one side and the smokers shelter to the rear (supplemented by a marquee for an imminent beer festival). Retains a two-bar layout with another room at the back; all three of which are on the compact side. Traditional furniture at decor. Fine selection of real ales from six of seven handpumps, with offerings from Wye Valley, Sadler's, Froth Blowers, Weatheroak and two from Kinver - Bargees Bitter and a fine Night Jar mild (£3.10). Well worth seeking out.

A detached GBG pub, with a canalside patio area, one of which is covered by an awning. This is a Georgian styled plain little building that was originally the offices for the weighbridge at the canal wharf - hence its functional design. It is the architypal four windowed 'house' you would see on Play School, executed in undressed brick. The interior has three rooms, where you won't find a TV or background music. They do food, but i didn't eat, so I can't comment on that. The decor has rooms in green and cream, as well as one in white and wood. The walls have eclectic ephemera on them - old adverts, canal and railway pictures, CAMRA award, beermats and so forth. The service was friendly and the clientele consisted of both locals and boat people - mainly mature, but also very busy. It closes during the afternoon. Beer; usual taps, with Titanic Anchor, Kinver Edge, Hobson's MILD, RCH East St and Weatheroak's Tillerman's Tipper on handpull - along with a real cider. All i tried were decent. A class little pub - a must do. Worth the travel alone. I look forward to a return.