Kingfisher, Birmingham

Fairly basic estate pub with separate public bar (with pool table) and lounge (with beer garden beyond), all better maintained than one might expect. Also has a very modest burger-based food offering. Of course, no real ale from the very disused handpumps on both counters, so a quick John Smith's (£3.50) it was before moving on.

This is a typically harsh looking 1970s estate pub, which is in effect a large house, with low-level extension. It is in brick, with some white boarding. At my visit, the place looked closed in the dark, but a side entrance (former outdoor?) was open. This led me to an open room (with a small side area - hence i thought it was an outdoor) which is in plain white, with a splash of red. The lack of pictures and things left it looking bare - or as though it was being refurbished! A TV showing the footy was above a small fireplace and a small stage area was in the corner. A couple of England flags were attached to the ceiling. A few mature blokes were in. A corridor took you to the bar, which had a pool table, a TV (not on) and a couple of lads in. Music was on in the bar (mixed and OK level), but not in the lounge. The service was fine. Beer; no real ale, just the usual kegs, with an OK M&B MILD. I was left wondering how this place was still going, and while there is nothing for the real ale fan, i am pleased that it is.