The Good Intent, Birmingham

In the very pretty Great Western Arcade with a very pretty façade to match. Modern inside (boo) but a fairly tidy conversion with a nice sunlight iron ceiling and exposed brick. Posh sarnies in the fridge for 4-5 sheets. Six pumps with four Craddocks and two guests. Not being a fan of Craddocks I thought I'd play safe with a Hobsons Twisted Spire but unfortunately I got a dishwasher half (NBSS 2) so the local CAMRAs are correct in not Guiding the place. So an interesting curio but the beer quality is lacking; in fact in the 15 mins I spent here I didn't see any others poured. Let’s say the place lives up to its name. 6.5

Shop conversion in the ornate Great Western Arcade. Bare boarded interior with exposed brick work. 6 real ales.

I think I spotted eight hand pulls on my recent re-visit, with three or four of those offering Craddock ales. My only gripe would be that no clue is given as to the style of these beers with the pump clips just listing the name and ABV of the beer. However this was mitigated by a helpful and knowledgeable barman who was happy to offer a taster when I was asking about styles and trying to make my mind up. The Good Intent is always a pleasure when visiting Birmingham and I've always found the Craddock ales to be decent. Maybe one day I will catch them with a porter or stout available, but I was certainly not disappointed with the two beers I selected. As has been noted, there is a single WC with separate disabled WC on the ground floor. There is an upstairs area, which I have still not investigated - I'd imagine this makes a good overflow area when the place is busy, but the downstairs seating makes for a shorter walk to head back to the bar so that's good enough for me. Definitely worth checking out and I intend to return again.

First off - the Great Western Arcade is gorgeous and full of independent shops. Having such a handsome, 2023 Good Beer Guide pub is the icing on the cake. A destination to impress people new to Birmingham. The pub operates on a non-profit basis, with all proceeds going to charity. Insides, its all mahogany wood and large glass windows. There is an upstairs, which most of the punters seemed to be heading for. I will investigate next time. A nice patio out front, which is great to people watch and attempt to lure in shoppers with your pinty delight. The usual Craddocks Range (wish they would put descriptions on the pump clips) but I went for a Brummie Gold (Birmingham Brewing Company) which was in fine condition. Well worth seeking out.