The Damson, Elmdon Heath, Solihull

I could't agree more with Mr Taylor, it is a detached sprawling 60s kind of bizarre and irregular exterior, with a patio. The interior has a few rooms, one of which is turned over to a Chinese restaurant. The main room is an open plan - there is certainly a lounge, that is a little more 'tidy' than the bar. The bar decor is red and mustardy coloured walls, with a pool table, several Sky TVs and a few 'rough' looking seats to be honest. There are a few 'arty' kind of pictures on the walls and there is a stained glass cupola as well - different. Service was excellent, the friendly chap refusing to serve us a beer, as he didnt consider it up to scratch. Clientele was mixed. Beer; tap stuff, with a decent Ansell's MILD and three handpulls - The Cottage Brewery Freckled Ken, went off, London Pride remained untouched and the Cottage Brewery Christmas Cracker was also decent. The reservations i had on approach were washed away. It is a little rough inside too, but the ale and service is good. On the outskirts of Solihull town, it was the best pub i visited, in Solihull, during the whole day.

My good friend lives around 30 secs away so I do have soft spot for this excellent pub. Looks rough on outside BUT when you get inside, it is absolute contrast (Albeit few wallpapers peeling) Two rooms on either side, one has pool, dart boards, large screen and chinese (yes it do have chinese INSIDE the pub!) Ever changing 3 real ales, seems changing every day! Other room is smaller and newer suitable for people who want to chill out.

After a recent outing to the the olton tavern i decided to try another local pub a bit further to walk but what the hell. turned up outside and thought oh dear 1960's design nightmare but i thought dont let that stop you rob, in i went!! well what a surprise a traditional pub, and real ale black sheep!!!served with a smile and a breif chat as well, trditional bar staff!! oh and to add to the wonderfull beer they have chinese food as well!!! i have to say maybe the best chinese food i have ever had. the decor is not the best in the world it could do with a bit of a refurb but all in all great beer great food and great atmosphere give these guys a pub closer to me and i would never leave!!! but i will visit again!!!!