The Royal Oak, Halesowen

This is a detached Ember Inns chain pub/eatery with patio areas. The pub is a typical 1930s mock-Tudor style building, being in undressed brick, white painted brick and white and beam effect. There are stone windows and entrance porches, with projecting gable ends and tall brick chimney stacks. The interior is in general an open plan U-shaped room around the central bar area. The decor is a mix of crea, wood panel, brown, French mustard and odd walls with patterned wallpaper on (in essence, the usual for this kind of place), with a mix of wood and patterned carpet flooring and a white ceiling, i think. The walls have that curious mix of old photos and bistro style art as really the whole place seems populated with food tables with chairs and perimeter seating. I didn't eat, so can't comment on that. There are a few vases and mirrors. There are a couple of fireplaces, the main one being a marble Tudor style affair. The service was fine and the clientele were mainly eating, but is was busy with a mixed crowd. I didn't hear any music. Beer; usual tap stuff with Brew XI, Purity UBU and a decent enough Adnams Sole Star on handpull. It is an Ember Inn's pub, so you know what you will get before you go in. They are not my favourites, as I dislike vases, places without any bar area and their beer quality varies a lot. This was one of my better experiences, the beer was fine, there is a lack of vases and twigs compared to other places, but sadly, no place for drinking alone, that I saw.

I know this pub but I wish I didn't. 1930's oversized estate pub. To be fair it is warm and comfortable & has a car park. Located on a very busy road junction. How about the beer - must I? I'd sooner not. It's alright if you are desperate.