The Merrivale, Langley, Oldbury

A large, detached mock-Jacobean pub on a roundabout, in undressed brick, white and wood beam, with beer garden. The pub has just re-opened after a closure period. The interior had a couple of rooms, but the lounge (and the function room if different) were all in darkness when i visited on a Thursday night. The bar was open. It is an open plan room with a pool table and dart board, as well as a TV, showing Emmerdale. The decor is a chocolate and cream split wall with white ceiling and a small tiled fireplace. There were no real pictures or ephemera, but this may be because it had just re-opened, as a few seemed to be lying around awaiting putting-up. The service was fine and there were just a couple of people in. The music was general and at an ok level. They did a basic menu at a cheap price, curry and rice etc, but i didn't eat, so can't comment on that. Beer; no real ale, all tap stuff, with M&B MILD that wasn't on at my visit - had a bitter shandy. There was a nice atmosphere here, but it was really quiet, especially for such a large place. I fear for it already, but hope it lasts. With the MILD on, i would pop back and try the curry!