The Black Boy, Bewdley

Up a bottom-breathing ascent from town but worth the effort, a lovely aged pub over two (or three?) rooms with a very attractive black and white half-timbered exterior with a red, black and white colour scheme within. Beware that the four local ales were only clipped in the rear room. Sadly my Hobsons Henry was somewhat towards the end of the barrel but drinkable – an NBSS 3 which was likely to have been a 4 if drunk 30 minutes previous (a large group of Xmas pissheads were leaving just as we arrived, so I blame them). Cobs available – I think I had one but I forgot to note the quality (!). Friendly barmaid was good for a chat as well. Bewdley is possibly the best pub town in the UK for its relative size and this one merits the effort despite fierce competition elsewhere. 8.5

Absolutely brilliant beam and daub build with rear beer garden. There is a small back serving bar with 4 ales (Butty Bach, HPA, Worcestershire Way and an excellent Enville Ginger. Service was very good and a few old chaps were in. The front area is divided into three with a sofa area, a larger central area with a brick fireplace, and a small room (TV not on) with a dartboard (yes, got a 180!). Music was at a decent level and not chart stuff! Class, a must do even if a stiff climb is needed up the hill.

A cracking traditional old pub just out of town. 4 ales plus a cider on offer. Darwin's Origin. Wye HPA, Butty Bach and Bewdley Worcestershire Way. I went for the Origin which was excellent. Nice beer garden out back. Well worth a visit.

Official site of The Black Boy - www.theblackboybewdley.co.uk

Official site of The Black Boy - www.theblackboybewdley.co.uk