Seven Stars, Cape Hill, Smethwick

Imposing corner pub with some interesting external detailing, sadly not continued inside since the original multi-room layout has been comprehensively remodelled and refurbished in an anonymous semi-modern style. Also, no real ale, and a generally poor keg choice, but I found a M&B Mild tap at the far end of the counter, and consoled myself with a £2.25 pint. However, at least it's still there, open, with a pool table and doing reasonable business on a cold winter evening...

This is a former hotel, built around 1900, when the area was rapidly expanding. It is in the typical red brick of the period, with moulded stone around the windows and a nice crest. The middle and ground storeys have bow windows, and there is a blue brick string course. The interior has just re-opened after a refurbishment and is generally a U-shape around the serving bar. The place is open plan, with a decor to match the general foody style, although i saw no menus. It has walls of cream, light blue, red, heavy wood panel and patterned wallpaper, with a part laminate, part carpet flooring and a white ceiling. There is a pool table and lots of TVs on the walls showing the same general TV programme. Old photos of the area were on the walls and there was no music, despite the TVs being silent. A mix of booth, high stool and general chairs provided the seating. The service was fine and there seemed to be a mixed crowd in, though it wasn't busy. Beer; usual taps, with M&B MILD (£1.90) and Murphys. No real ale. I had a shandy (MILD one) and left. Nothing for the real ale fan, one for the locals.