Pubs Archives - Pioneer Magazines

Spotlight shines on Streetly micropub

Staff and customers alike are raising a glass or two at the popular Brewhouse Micropub in Streetly after scooping the prestigious award of “West Midlands Pub of the Year” from its local Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA) branch.

The Brewhouse team celebrate their success along with members of CAMRA.

The award winner was chosen by Lichfield, Tamworth and Sutton Coldfield CAMRA volunteers and featured 23 pubs that were judged on their atmosphere, décor, welcome, service, community focus and the quality of the beer.

On receiving the award, which was presented by Chairman of the local CAMRA branch, George Greenaway, and CAMRA National Executive Director, Gary Timmins, pub manager Andrea McCarthy told Pioneer Magazines: “I was flabbergasted, over the moon! We couldn’t have done it without our fantastic staff and customers.”

Opening in 2018 by landlords Michelle and Colin Stephens, the cosy micropub has gained a reputation among locals for its friendly atmosphere and superb selection of hand-picked real ales, craft ales and gins (they also do a sumptuous Sunday cheese board!).

“We choose beers and other drinks based on what we know our customers like, and always have three quality guest ales on,” said Andrea.

“Some of our best-sellers are an award-winning lager called ABK Hell, a Cornish cider called Rattler, and an Irish Stout called Forged from Conor McGregor’s Porterhouse Brewery.”

Beer Guide Approved

Featured in CAMRA’s Good Beer Guide, the Brewhouse also likes to surprise their patrons with novelty beers. Most recently, this included a green beer and the “World’s Strongest Fortified Beer” called Snake Venom, which was available for one night only, boasting an eye-watering 67.5% ABV!

Always keen to create a community vibe, the Brewhouse frequently looks for ways to bring people together and is planning a special evening of “Last Night of the Proms” to celebrate St. George’s Day on 23 April, which will include a rousing rendition of “Land of Hope and Glory”.

“Community is at the heart of the Brewhouse,” said Andrea. “It’s the perfect place to me.”

On presenting the award, CAMRA’s Gary Timmins emphasised the importance of community, stating that: “The Pub of the Year competition is not just a reflection of great beer. It’s great beer, in a great location, with great people. It’s an indication of the strength of a community in the area.”

The Brewhouse can be found on Boundary Road on the Hundred Acre estate, Streetly. It opens Tuesday through Thursday from 5pm to 10.30pm, Friday from 3pm to 10.30pm, Saturday from 12.00pm to 22.30pm, and Sunday from 12pm-9pm.

Fingerpost pub in Pelsall available to let

Admirable Taverns is looking for a new manager to run the Fingerpost pub in Pelsall.

Situated next the Wyrley and Essington Canal, the tenancy agreement will require an initial investment of £15,000, which includes a £5,000 security deposit, £5,000 working capital and £5,000 stock.

Annual rent costs are £28,000 per year.

From the Admiral Taverns website:

“The Fingerpost stands as a distinctive detached establishment, nestled in a picturesque canal-side setting on the outskirts of Walsall. Upon arrival, you are greeted by a convenient front car park, offering ease of access. Step through the inviting front door, and you’ll find yourself in a spacious, open-plan bar area featuring a generously sized bar counter. This seamlessly transitions into a cosy, intimate dining section before leading you further into the heart of the establishment – the expansive main dining room. Here, the space opens up to reveal a splendid, elevated decked area, partially covered, which offers great views of the tranquil canal.

Positioned in close proximity to the main A5 route, connecting the M6 to Cannock and Walsall, The Fingerpost enjoys an ideal location for attracting passing travellers. Moreover, its longstanding presence in the area ensures a steady stream of loyal patrons from both the local community, drawn to its inviting ambiance for casual dining, and those seeking a welcoming spot to enjoy their favourite beverages.”

Interested parties can register their interest here > https://www.admiraltaverns.co.uk/pubs/fingerpost-walsall/

The Met Named As Walsall’s New Sports Bar

Bar10 on Wolverhampton Street, near to the New Art Gallery, is currently undergoing a major refurbishment and will re-open as a sports bar under a new name.

Davenports Brewery has stated that the premises will be closed for approximately six weeks while a £500k refurbishment is carried out.

The new Walsall sports bar will be named ‘The Met’.

From the Express & Star:

Mike Bird, marketing director for Davenports said: “Bar10 boasts a great loyal customer base who all enjoy the social atmosphere that the bar delivers, but with the venue now looking tired it was time to breathe new life into it and give the customer a great new experience.”

Councillor Mike Bird, leader of Walsall Council, said: “We’re thrilled that Davenports, a company with such a strong heritage and relevancy for today, is once again investing into the Midlands – and more importantly Walsall. It is a significant investment that not only creates jobs, but also adds to the appeal and offering of the area.”

General manager of the venue, Nicki Shaw added; “I can’t wait to open the doors as The Met. I’ve seen the plans and they are very impressive. Regulars, and new clients, will love what we have to offer in terms of food and drink, and the setting. It’s exciting times.”

Katie said: “There has long been a history of sport in pubs, it’s watched and debated in pubs, and brings people together. The venue lends itself in size to being able to offer an authentic sports bar experience, whilst its canalside setting means we can continue that experience outdoors too.

“With a significant increase in the number of live sports on our screens and a greater diversity of sports being televised, there is a need to showcase them for customers. We’ll also be offering a super election of live entertainment too. You can expect giant screens, delicious food – from sharing platters to steaks and wickedly good burgers as well as comfortable leather booths and tables to enjoy our offering. I don’t want to give too much away, but The Met promises to deliver a great experience all-round.”

Bar10 has existed under its current name since 2017 and was previously known as The Wharf.

Walsall Town Centre Pub Faces Closure

The Crown Inn on Long Acre Street in Walsall could be closed and demolished if plans are approved by Walsall Council.

**The Crown Inn in the Birchills area of Walsall.**

An application from Gurmeet Shocker states that the public house, which has held a beer license prior to 1882, has never recovered from lockdown with the number of customers falling.

If approved, the property would be transformed into 14 flats.

Agents JBVJ said: “We feel the loss of the Crown Inn will not be detrimental to the area as there are a number of similar public house facilities within close proximity of the site in a more convenient location.

These are Rock Steady Eddie’s – 80 meters from the application site, The Pretty Bricks – 100 meters from the application site, Desi Starr Inn – 245 meters from the application site and The New Navigation Pub – 500 meters from the application site.

“The Crown Inn has seen a decline in patronage due to the Covid-19 pandemic, which has created an inability to attract and retain new and existing customers.

“Its current state means it adds to the existing decline of character and activity, yet has the potential to be a landmark residential building for the local area.

“The very nature of public houses depends on attracting and retaining local custom.

“For this reason, the redevelopment of the public house is not economically viable for the applicant as they would require a good level of business which has since dispersed to other venues within the local area to the inability to modernise in the post-pandemic era.

“As the site currently stands, the opportunity for redevelopment allows the opportunity to enhance natural surveillance within the area and to complete the redevelopment of the whole site improving the overall street character.

“We feel that our proposal demonstrates a suitable response to the sensitivity of the area whilst also ensuring there is a not a detrimental effect on the local community.”

In better news for local pubs, The Swan on the Pelsall Road is due to re-open soon after Black Country Ales agreed to re-furbish and re-open the pub in the new year.

Local Pubs With Beer Gardens

Looking forward to the pubs re-opening? With Covid restrictions easing from April 12, and many local pubs with beer gardens in the West Midlands planning to serve their customers outdoors, find out which local venues are opening.

We’ve been paying close to attention to which pubs are opening in Walsall and the surrounding areas from April 12 for outdoor drinking and dining, but if you know of any that are missing from the list, get in touch.

Check out our local pubs with beer gardens guide to see where you can sip your drinks in the sunshine (we hope!)

Local Pubs With Beer Gardens – Q&A

Before we begin, let’s take a look at some of the most common questions that pub goers are asking right now.

Do I have to order food at the pub?

The government has lifted the restriction that was previously in place that required customers to purchase a “substantial meal” before ordering alcohol. So, you can just order drinks.

Do I have to book a table?

Many local pubs are asking for customers to book in advance. We’d recommend that you ring any pub before just turning up to make sure you get a space, and to make sure it is definitely open.

Will I be able to go inside to the toilet?

Every pub needs to provide toilet facilities. This means you are allowed to go inside for this reason. The same recommendations are in place, so customers should keep a safe distance apart while queuing and it’s likely you’ll be requested to wear a mask, unless exempt.

What times will the pub shut?

With the easing of restrictions, there are no curfews set, so pubs can open for their usual hours.

Will there be track and trace?

All pubs that are opening will be legally required to request contact details of customers. This will be through scanning a QR code with the NHS app, or by providing details on paper.

Can I go to the pub with friends?

The Rule of 6 applies. This means you can visit the pub with a group of up to six people from a maximum of two different households.

Walsall Pubs With Beer Gardens

St Matthew’s Hall

Walsall town centre’s Wetherspoons is one of the 400 Wetherspoons that are opening across the country for outside drinking and dining in the courtyard. We’d expect this to be one of the busiest pubs in April, so you’ll either have to get their early or try one of the other pubs in the town centre.

Lichfield Street, Walsall, WS1 1SX

The Registry

The Registry in the heart of town will have a limited amount of tables outside in their garden. It will be open from 9am-11pm daily and its owners are asking customers to download an app in order to buy drinks and food. Pre-booking tables is not available.

23-29 Leicester Street, Walsall, WS1 1PT.

The Black Country Arms

One of the town’s oldest hostelries, The Black Country Arms, will offer outdoor seating from 12pm on April 12. They also have a pavement license, so tables will also be available outside the front on the High Street. Like other local pubs, it will be table service only with hot food and snacks available during certain hours. No pre-booking is available.

High Street, Walsall, WS1 1QW

Lyndon House Hotel

Lyndon House will be re-opening on the 12 April with two outside areas, a back patio and side patio. There are also outside heaters.

9-10 Upper Rushall Street, Walsall, WS1 2HA.

The Pretty Bricks

This Black Country Ales back street pub will be opening its doors again from day one offering a variety of real ales and ciders.

5 John Street, Walsall, WS2 8AF.

The Walsall Arms

The Walsall Arms Tap House is opening the doors to its beer garden on April 12. They are working hard on making their garden “a little piece of paradise”.

17 Bank Street, Walsall, WS1 2EP.

The Watering Trough

Management at the Trough have received an order of 16ft garden umbrellas for their large beer garden should the rain try and ruin the fun .

90 Ablewell Street, Walsall, WS1 2EU.

The Oak Inn

Management have been working hard providing a collection and delivery food service over lockdown, but now they’re ready to open their small garden.

337 Green Lane, Walsall.

The Longhorn

The staff at this Embers Inn pub are currently sprucing up their outdoor facilities. Bookings can be made in advance online via the Ember Inns app.

Sutton Road, Walsall, WS5 3AR.

The Alma Inn

The Alma Inn is welcoming guests for drinks only from April 12, but the restaurant (Chalo!) is still available for takeaways and should be re-opening again soon.

Bentley Lane, Walsall, WS2 8SP.

The New Navigation

This friendly Birchills boozer is ready to welcome customers into their beer garden.

109 Old Birchills, Walsall, WS2 8QD.

Cheslyn Hay And Great Wyrley Pubs With Beer Gardens

The New Masons

An outdoor heated and covered area is being prepared for the beer garden. Booking is only for diners. There is a designated space for drinking, so you just need to turn up.

16 Stafford Road, Great Wyrley, Walsall, WS5 6AZ.

New Ivy House

Opening initially on Thursday- Sunday from 12 April, booking is advised. Thursday-Friday – 3pm-10pm and Saturday-Sunday 12 noon to 10pm.

62 Stafford Road, Walsall, WS6 6AZ.

The Malt At Landywood

Opening from 15 April, Thursday-Sunday only, you can sip your drinks in the canopy area. Extra tables have been added on the car park.

Holly Lane, Cheslyn Hay, Walsall, WS6 7AR.

The Royal Oak

You are invited to book or just turn up to take advantage of the Royal Oak’s beer garden and marquee.

8 Norton Lane, Great Wyrely, Walsall, WS6 6PE.

Aldridge Pubs With Beer Gardens

The Old Irish Harp

Bookings can be made online for a seat in the beer garden for up to six people. Customers will be allocated two-hour time slots.

Chester Road, Aldridge

The Avion

The Aldridge Wetherspoons will open its back doors with a small area outside. Ordering drinks and food and can be done via the Wetherspoons app.

19 Anchor Road, Aldridge, Walsall, WS9 8PT.

Pelsall Pubs With Beer Gardens

Old House at Home

Raise your glass in April as the Old House at Home beer garden will be open to the public.

Pelsall, Walsall, WS3 4NT.

Queens

With benches outside the front of the pub and a beer garden, staff at the Queens are also welcoming customers to bring their decks chairs if they wish.

1 Norton Road, Pelsall, WS3 4AY.

The Railway Inn

Initially opening from 12-7pm, The Railway Inn will also be serving food during certain times. A gazebo has been set up to keep you sheltered from the elements.

10 Victoria Road, Pelsall, WS3 4BH.

Rushall Pubs With Beer Gardens

The Boathouse

The Boathouse opens on 14 April and is limiting its opening times. Check their Facebook page for an up-to-date list of hours. Children under 12 are not allowed at this initial stage.

Park Road, Rushall, WS4 1LG.

Sir Robert Peel

The Sir Robert Peel in Bloxwich has received an outside makeover and is ready to open on April 12. They’ve been running a successful takeaway and delivery service during lockdown with delicious Desi burgers, wings and curries, but have also been busy getting their garden at the back and front of the pub in shape.

104 Bell Lane, Walsall, WS2 2JS.

The Romping Cat

This historic Bloxwich pub will initially be opening their beer garden to the public on April 17. Hopefully it won’t be too long before their legendary karaoke sessions are back on the agenda!

97 Elmore Green Rd, Bloxwich, Walsall WS3 2HN.

Gunners Club

The family-friendly Gunners Club will be opening on April 12 with an undercover outdoor seating area with lighting and a TV.

Old Lane, Bloxwich, WS3 2DD.

One Man And His Dog

Tucked away on the Turnberry Estate, Marstons’ pub One Man and His Dog is ready to welcome customers into the beer garden. Booking is recommended, but not essential.

71 Turnberrry Road, Bloxwich, Walsall, WS3 3UB.

Bloxwich Showman

The Bloxwich Wetherspoons is re-opening. The outdoor area is small and demand is bound to be high. With no pre-booking available, you may have to get their early!

156 High Street, Bloxwich, WS3 3JT.

The Railway

The recently refurbished bar will be opening from 12 noon until 9pm offering a seated service in their garden at the back of the pub.

Bloxwich Road Leamore WS3 2UY.

Walsall Wood Pubs With Beer Gardens

The Horse & Jockey

New management are ready to welcome you back with hot food and cold drinks.

146 Walsall Road, WS9 9AJ.

The Drunken Duck

The car park has received an overhaul with gazebos to shelter you from the elements while you sip cool beer from April 12.

55 High Street, Walsall, WS9 9LR

Brownhills Pubs With Beer Gardens

Hussey Arms

This Hungry Horse pub and restaurant is now taking bookings for their garden tables.

Chester Road, Brownhills, WS8 7JP.

Anchor Inn

Wind, rain or shine, staff at the Anchor Inn are looking forward to customers coming back.

Chester Road, Brownhills, WS8 6DP.

Streetly Pubs With Beer Gardens

The Hardwick Arms

Another Ember Inns pub is opening on the 12 April in Streetly. They even have cabins that you can pre-book, or you can grab one of the patio tables.

Chester Road, Streetly, Sutton Coldfield, B74 3DX.

If you know any other local pubs with beer gardens or outside seating that are opening, let us know by contacting: community@pioneermagazines.co.uk, or message us on through our Facebook page.