The Old Joint Stock, Birmingham

Fine, ornamental Fullers pub in central Birmingham, easy walk from New Street & Snow Hill stations. I would agree with some of the other comments on here, that is the service is notoriously slowand it ain't cheap, and the gallery is often shut off, but it is an excellent example of a bank conversion, very Fullers likeand a good addition to Birmingham because of it. Central ornate bar, stools around the outer wall cill, traditional tables and chairs elsewhere, lots f dark wood. Excellent decor and there is a theatre upsatirs. There is a small, but welcome outside area, which is rare for Birmingham central, and also leads down the stairs to the back door of the real ale'd Wellington. Its opposite St Phillips Cathedral and square (pigeon park), so handy before or after Evensong if you are that way inclined. I have a soft spot for the place as I have seen a few England footie games here down the years, though usually there is no TV or sports here. They have the full Fullers range, which whilst not a personal favourite the Pride and ESB can be very good. Two guest beers, sadly no longer locally sourced - no more Beowulf! But the beer quality tends to be good.

A towering ornate pub that used to be a bank and was converted by Fullers a few years back. The interior, with its grand opulence, extensive woodwork and domed sky-light is magnificent. There is an upstairs balcony area and I believe the place has its own theatre as well. Due to the huge ceiling size I would say that perhaps some of the ambience is lost and it can feel a bit impersonal unless you’re in a large group. As for the beer, the island bar serves eight ales – six Fullers/Gales and two guests. My pint of Titanic was nice, if a little cold,. The prices are London-esque though, you’re paying for that ornate interior. Well-worth a sample pint here but I doubt I’d linger beyond one or two. Tip: the Wellington is next door (rear exit).

This large Fullers pub is opposite Brum Cathedral. Fab interior with a large glass domed ceiling, a Grade II listed building, built in 1864. Has the full range of Fullers ales, this pie and ale pub does a great pie, which are made daily on the premises.