Somers Sports & Social Club, Halesowen

Substantial sports and social club housed in a converted mansion, with the somewhat old-fashioned bar along the original frontage (although you wouldn't know that from inside). Side lounge and no doubt various function and games rooms through other doors. Side patio area, with the bowling green beyond. Impressive row of nine handpumps, all but one of which were in use when I visited, with Oakham Citra having just finished on the other by the look of things. I went for the Simpkiss Bitter (£3.60), one of a pair from Enville, with other cask ales from the likes of Wye Valley, St Austell, Dark Star and Fixed Wheel. £2 entry fee for non-members.

This sports and social club is situated about 10-15 minutes walk out of Halesowen town centre in a rather grand building that is Grade II listed. I suspect that most customers drive here, as the approach on foot in the dark was quite dark with poor lighting. Once inside, there is an entrance corridor lined with pictures of old Halesowen, along with the toilets. The main room is spacious with tall ceilings, whilst there is a lounge overlooking the grounds around the corner. Regular beers are Wye Valley HPA & Butty Bach, Batham's Best Bitter & Enville Ale. Guests were St Austell Proper Job & Oakham Bishop's Farewell. The clientele were mostly of the older variety, but I was pleasantly surprised at how busy it was.