The Rose and Crown, Cradley, Halesowen

A detached Victorian Banks's pub. At first, the pub looks rather plain in its red brick, but there is a nicely moulded stone entrance and keystones above the window arches. It has a couple of front facing gables. The interior has a couple of rooms, although the 'Tap Room' at the back was in fact locked and bolted. The main bar room is a straight room, with one half looking bar-ish, the other lounge-ish. The wood bar faces you on entry. The decor is a mix of pink and white painted textured wallpaper walls, with a pink ceiling and half red carpet and half 60s tiled floor. There is a brick surround gas fire at one end. The walls have arty flower panel pictures on them and there are a couple of TVs, one had Smooth Radio on. There is a mix of 60s transport cafe tables and stool and perimeter seating. There is an outdoor hatch at the back and the bogs have been refurbished recently. The service is great - a proper old fashioned gaffer - suited and gentlemanly, and the clientele consisted of a few locals. Beer; usual tap stuff with Banks's MILD and bitter cask on electronic pumps - the MILD is class. Despite the attempt to update the decor, there is still a lovely 60s feel to the pub, with the gaffer smartly presented in suit and tie. I have dropped by a couple of times and will do so whenever around again.