The Rose & Crown, Brockmoor, Brierley Hill

Holdens outlet. Two rooms and a conservatory; the lounge on the right is nice and is done-out in green and cream. All the Holden’s range on, I plumped for Golden Glow (NBSS 3.5) and the Bitter (4). It was here that I finally accepted I just don’t rate Holden’s beers…no quibbling over the conditioning, the alkaline tint is simply not my taste. As a pub it’s a decent visit if you do like their wares and better than the brewery tap (Park Inn) for my money.

Recent change of manager, the pub has been smartened up inside & out. New guy seems very keen, the Glow and Special bitter are on top form plus he's putting snacks on the bar on Sunday lunchtime plus curries, chillies and stews on Saturday night. Tiger cobs available too. Worth a visit!

This is a strange looking pub from the outside. It looks like it was a tiny place that has had extra bits tagged on to it over the years. Inside there are two bars, with the saloon off to the right and a public bar to the left. I opted for the public bar which had a nice mosaic tiled floor and a dartboard. On the bar there were Holden's Mild, Bitter, Golden Glow and Special. I went for the Bitter (£2.25) which was cheaper than either of the two Spoons I visited that day and was in excellent nick. I suspect this pub may get overlooked for the more famous Vine which is a fair old walk away but it's a nice little pub that is well worth seeking out.