The Royal Oak, Stafford

A former 18th Century coaching inn, now a busy local which does food and caters for a large segment of the community. There is a large garden and a small car park. Inside, the bars have now been conjoined, the main demarcation being the dining room which is off to one side and is the only public area where dogs are not allowed. The staff were very friendly, and very welcoming of the dogs. The locals were also welcoming, happy to chat and convivial. Ales on were Wainwrights Gold, Adnams Ghost Ship, GK IPA and Abbott. The beer was in fair condition but not GBG standard which could explain why they've not had an entry for a while. I'd be happy to come in for food and drink anytime.

This is a detached white rendered cottage style fronted pub, with red paint work and hanging baskets. There is a patio,beer garden and a kid's play area at the back. It is in the GBG 2010. The interior has two rooms, however i headed into the one room on the left when entering from the car-park, as it has some decent live acoustic music on. I wasn't sure, but it looked as if some refurbishment work was going on. Anyway, the lounge room was in red and white, with arty pictures and i assume this is where they also serve food. We didn't eat, so can't comment on that. There is a function room and skittle alley as well. The service was fine, the clientele mixed and the place was busy and understandably so, with the entertainment. Beer; usual tap stuff with Greene King IPA and Aboot on handpull, which are not to my tatse really, so remained untried. There was also Black Sheep Brewery's Golden Sheep, which was well kept, just tasteless and what I went for, the Ansell's MILD, which was sadly a little lifeless. All in all, i enjoyed my visit as the music was a great bonus. The MILD was a little diappointing, but i would happily go back.