Globe Inn, Tamworth

A large imposing and austere building from the outside which made me wonder quite what sort of place I would be stepping into. Inside, however, is a really well-done modernisation in the style of a restrained Art Nouveau continental brasserie; dark mahogany and mocha shades with glass insets at the bar and on the pillars plus a lot of gleaning brass. Noticeably busy on a Friday lunchtime session compared to some other nearby outlets. Four pumps, all operational, dispensing Bass (NBSS 3.5), Wainwright, Holdens Mild (4) and some rugby themed beer. I really liked it here and it’s a Tamworth must-visit.

I only visited this one to avoid the clamber up the stairs to the toilets in the King's Ditch micropub across the road. It was obviously once a Bass coaching inn but now consists of a modernised single room with obtrusive TVs. The bar is to the left and there is an area runs off to the right about half way along. There is another raised area at the rear. There are five hand pumps which had two unused, Bass, Marston's Wainwright and Holden's Black Country Mild. I obviously went for the mild (£3.20) which was OK but a bit warm. The price was excessive compared to their tied houses but they don't have any in Tamworth or anywhere else nearby! This place was better than I expected and the Holden's Mild was a real boon.

Official site of The Globe Inn - www.theglobetamworth.com

Official site of The Globe Inn - www.theglobetamworth.com

Rather austere façade, but there are some interesting features including some green glazed brickwork and the covered entrance to what is presumably a courtyard behind. However, the place proves to be a welcoming pub once you get inside (and still offers accommodation too). The front of the bar has a limited number of tables but the slightly split-level side seating area and rear dining area are both well furnished. Traditional decor throughout. Four of the five handpumps on the gantried counter were in use, offering Bass, Doom Bar, Wainwright and Holden's Black Country Mild (£3.20).