Real Ale Reporter Archive

In order to keep page sizes down, reports are periodically moved here from the frequently-updated Real Ale Reporter.

Many of the reports include numbers like this [4]. These are beer ratings, using the system devised by CAMRA (see table to right). Numbers like this (4.5%) show the strength of the beer or ABV.

Vaults in Knowle
Tue 29 Apr: Elland Gold Award [4.5], Elland Eden, Acorn St George [3.5], Hop Back Summer Lightning, Tetley Bitter & Ansells Mild.

Red Lion in Knowle
Sun 27 Apr: Hydes 1863 Classic Bitter [3], Titanic Englands Glory [3], Hook Norton Old Hooky, Wells Bombardier, Fullers London Pride and M&B Brew XI (at £1.89/pint)

O'Neills in Solihull
Sat 26 Apr: Just Tim Taylor Landlord [3] on at the moment.

Hog's Head in Solihull
Sat 26 Apr: Fuller's London Pride, Charles Wells Bombardier & Outlaw (Roosters) Wild Mule [4]

Fieldhouse in Monkspath
Sat 26 Apr: Okells Bitter (3.7%) [3]; Outlaw Wild Mule (3.9%) [5]; Coach House Honey Pot; Wells Bombardier

Assembly Rooms in Solihull
Wed 23 Apr: Batemans Spring Godess[4], Orkney dark Island, Stones(USA)7.2%[5] Ginger beer(?)4.2%, Oakham JHB (just gone), Purity UBU, Pedigree

Fieldhouse in Monkspath
Wed 23 Apr: Everards Sunchaser (4.0%) [4]; Morland Tanners Jack (4.4%) [3]; Coach House Honey Pot (3.8%) [3]; Wells Bombardier (4.3%)

The Vaults in Knowle
Mon 21 Apr: Robinsons Dark Hatters (3.3%) [2]; Silverhead Leah Bier (3.8%) [2]; Thornbridge Ashford (4.2%) [2]; Otter Ale (4.5%) [3];

Railway in Dorridge
Mon 21 Apr: Wychwood Hobgoblin (the new 4.5% version) [3]

Drum & Monkey in Dorridge
Mon 21 Apr: Old Mill St George (from week 2 of the festival) (4.2%) [3]; Timothy Taylor Landlord; Hobsons Best Bitter; Hobsons Town Crier

White Swan in Solihull
Thu 24 Apr: Wood's Special Bitter (4.2%), Mauldons Black Adder, Robinson's Top Tipple (3.9%) [3.5] and Greene King Abbot [4]. The Marstons Pedigree was "not available".

NBSS

White Swan in Solihull
Wed 23 Apr: Greene King Abbot, Pedigree, Mauldons Blackadder & Robinsons Top Tipple [2].

Boat in Catherine-de-Barnes
Sun 20 Apr: Hobsons Bitter (3.8%) [4] and Morland Old Speckled Hen. The third handpump is out of commission at present but it is hoped to have it back in action soon.

Red Lion in Shirley
Sat 19 Apr: Normans Conquest [4] - former Camra supreme champion

Drawbridge in Majors Green
Thu 17 Apr: Beartown Kodiak Gold [4], Old Mill St George, Highgate Fox's Nob, Butcombe Bitter, as well as Deuchars IPA, Fullers London Pride, Charles Wells Bombardier and Courage Directors. Well worth a visit!

Assembly Rooms in Solihull
Thu 17 Apr: Some festival ales still available. On offer today are Mauldons Black Adder, Robinsons Top Tipple, Oakham JHB, Caledonian Chocolate Drop, Hook Norton 303AD, Woodfordes Nelsons Revenge [3] - all downstairs, plus Orkney Dark Island in the upstairs bar, along with Westons Conquest Scrumpy. The regulars, Greene King IPA and Abbot, plus Marstons Pedigree are also available.

White Swan in Solihull
Mon 14 Apr: *** NEWSFLASH *** [0 Although the festival has now finished, the White Swan still has a number of casks of festival ales waiting to be tapped. These will continue to be available while stocks last ]

Assembly Rooms in Solihull
Mon 14 Apr: Caledonian Chocolate Drop (3.8%) [2]; Mauldons Black Adder (5.3%) [3]; Robinsons Top Tipple (3.9%) [2]; Batemans Spring Goddess (4.2%) [3]

White Swan in Solihull
Mon 14 Apr: JW Lees Brewer's Dark (3.5%) [3]; Hydes Trojan Horse (4.2%) [2]; Elgoods Old Wagg (4.0%) [3]; Jennings Sneck Lifter (5.1%) [4]; Hook Norton 303AD (I think this was mis-labelled and it's actually the VERY sweet Ecaussinnes Cookie Beer (5.0%) [1])

British Legion in Solihull
Thu 10 Apr: Church End St George's [4] & Church End Shakesbeer along with Banks Bitter.

Assembly Rooms in Solihull
Fri 11 Apr: Robinsons Top Tipple, Caledonian Chocolate Drop, Nethergate April Fool, Hampshire Ironside as guests alonside the regular beers.

Vaults in Knowle
Fri 11 Apr: Thwaites Double Century 4.5% [3] Caledonian Deuchars IPA [3] They are advertising another beer festival commencing 18th April for a week or until the beer runs out!

Fieldhouse in Monkspath
Thu 10 Apr: Robinsons Dizzy Blonde (3.8%) [3]; Batemans Eggs-B (4.2%) [2]; Adnams Explorer (4.3%); Shepherd Neame Spitfire (4.5%)

Drum & Monkey in Dorridge
Thu 10 Apr: Week 2 of the festival: Old Mill St George (4.2%) [3]; Morland Old Speckled Hen (4.5%) plus regulars Hobsons Best Bitter (3.8%); Hobsons Town Crier (4.5%)

Case Is Altered in Five Ways nr Chadwick End
Wed 9 Apr: Not in the Solihull pubs area, but always worth a visit. Current guest beer - Goffs Launcelot [3].

Crown in Claverdon
Wed 9 Apr: Brew XI & Warwickshire Godiva [1] - very soupy looking, tasted OK but not particularly enjoyable.

Drawbridge in Solihull Lodge
Tue 8 Apr: Woodfordes Wherry Best Bitter 3.8%, Titanic English Glory 4.5%, Timothy Taylor landlord; Wells Bombardier, Marstons Peddigree

Assembly Rooms in Solihull
Wed 9 Apr: The same range as yesterday was available, except that the Greene King Abbot Reserve had been replaced by Highgate Fat Catz. I tried the Spinning Dog Celtic Gold and rate it a definite [4].

Assembly Rooms in Solihull
Tue 8 Apr: The following festival ales were on: Caledonian Chocolate Drop, Theakstons Black Bull Bitter, Wadworth Horizon, Brains' Rev. James, Spinning Dog Celtic Gold, Greene King Abbot Reserve (6.5%) [4] and Wickwar Severn Bore. The usual beers, greene King IPA and Abbot, plus Marstons Pedigree were also available, plus a pump clip showing for Westons Conquest Scrumpy in the upstairs bar.

White Swan (Wetherspoons) in Solihull
Sat 5 Apr: Sneck Lifter[3], Purity Gold, Caledonian Chocolate Drop, Pedigree, Original Plum Brower. I was assured that all of the beers were available.

Assembly Rooms in Solihull
Sat 5 Apr: The following beers had pump clips showing:- Phoenix Navvy,Pedigree,Abbot Reserve, Store double IPA (California),Wadworth Horizon, Wickwar Severn Bore,Spinning dog Celtic Gold,Gk IPA,Weston's Cider Conquest. Only the usuals Ped,GK IPA etc were on. Only one of the hand pumps was without a clip

Fieldhouse in Solihull
Sat 5 Apr: Gales HSB [4], Shepherd Neame Spitfire, Butcombe Brunel IPA (5.0%) and M&B Brew XI. The Brew XI is being sold at £1.79/pint.

Black Boy in Heronfield
Fri 4 Apr: St Austell Tribute (4.2%) [3]; Fullers London Pride

Hobs Meadow in Hobs Moat
Thu 3 Apr: Ruddles County (4.3%) [2]

Harvester in Solihull
Thu 3 Apr: Goff's Tournament (4.0%)[2]; Salopian Golden Thread (5.0%) [1]; Courage Directors; Greene King Abbot Ale

White Swan in Solihull
Wed 2 Apr: Just the 4 festival beers on in here at the moment: Marstons Pedigree, Greene King IPA, Ringwood 78 [3] & Yo-Ho Tokyo Black.

O'Neills in Solihull
Wed 2 Apr: TT Landlord [4] & Highgate Highland Whisky Ale.

Assembly Rooms in Solihull
Wed 2 Apr: Festival beers on today are Stone Brewery IPA, Jennings Sneck Lifter [4], Ecaussine Cookie Beer, Yo-ho Tokyo Black, Cain's Bock Beer and Marstons Pedigree Six.

NBSS

Assembly Rooms in Solihull
Thu 27 Mar: Today is the start of the JDW beer festival and guest ales on were: Loddon Hocus Pocus, Original Wexford (4.4%) and Brains Bread of Heaven (4%) [3]. Listed as coming soon are: St. Georgen Brau Keller Bier and Ecaussinnes Cookie Beer. Also available were regulars Greene King Abbot and IPA, Marstons Pedigree and Purity Pure UBU.

Fieldhouse in Solihull
Thu 20 Mar: M&B Brew XI (@ £1.79 per pint), Shepherd Neame Spitfire, Springhead Liberty, Highgate Irish Whiskey Ale and Moorhouse's Pride of Pendle (4.1%) [4].

Woodmans Rest in Shirley
Sun 23 Mar: Greene King IPA, Abbot [4], Black Sheep [3], Pedigree

Sharmans Cross in Solihull
Sun 23 Mar: Pedigree [3], Bass

Colebrook in Haslucks Green
Mon 24 Mar: Moorhouse Pride of Pendle [4], other guests were Titanic Iceberg & a seasonal Irish ale, regulars are Pedigree, Abbot and Tim Taylor's Landlord

Bulls Head in Earlswood
Mon 24 Mar: Thwaites Bomber [4], pity Wainwright is so elusive - keeps selling out.

O'Nell's in Solihull
Sun 23 Mar: Timothy Taylor Landlord [4] & Highgate Irish Whisky Ale [3]

Bernies in Shirley
Sat 22 Mar: Pictish Bravo (4.7%) [4], also Phoenix White Monk and Silver Fox

Assembly Rooms in Solihull
Wed 19 Mar: Usual ales were Greene king Abbot and IPA, Marstons Pedigree and Purity Pure Gold. Guests were Ringwood Fortyniner, Batemans Hooker and Original Wexford (St. Patrick's) Ale (4.4%) [3].

Drum & Monkey in Dorridge
Sun 16 Mar: Now under new management, the pub has an 8 week festival due to run from 1st April to 26th May. Votes can be cast to stock any of 6 different ales per week. A total of 42 different ales are available to choose from, including the likes of Woodforde's Wherry, Highgate Fox's Nob, Rooster's Wild Mule and Moorhouse's Black Cat. Booklets containing voting slips are available in the pub now.

Fieldhouse in Monkspath
Sun 16 Mar: Highgate Irish Whisky Ale (4.4%) [3]; Hopback Crop Circle (4.2%) [4]; Cotleigh Tawny Owl (3.8%) [2]

Blue Bell Cider House in Warings Green
Sun 16 Mar: Hyde's Trojan Horse (4.2%) [3]; Holden's Golden Glow (4.4%); Young's Special (4.5%)

Drum & Monkey in Dorridge
Sun 16 Mar: Brains Bread of Heaven (4.0%) [4]; Marston's Pedigree (4.5%); Hobson's Town Crier (4.5%); Hobson's Best Bitter (3.8%)

Reservoir in Earlswood
Sun 16 Mar: Courage Best, Ruddles County (4.3%)[5]

Griffin in Furnace End
Thu 13 Mar: This GBG-listed pub is not in the Solihull Branch Area but.. ales available were RCH Pitchfork, RCH Firebox, Theakstons Old Peculier, Hook Norton Old Hooky, Marstons Pedigree, Jennings Dark Mild, Holdens Golden Glow, Weatheroak Frog March [4], Batham's Best Bitter [5] and Tunnel Shadow Weaver Stout.

The Drawbridge in Majors Green
Thu 13 Mar: Marston's Pedigree, Wells Bombardier, Caledonian 80 shilling, Brains SA Gold, Caledonian Try'd and Tested

Red Lion in Shirley
Thu 13 Mar: Slaters Common Road [3]

Municipal Club in Shirley
Wed 12 Mar: Greene King Chariot, Everards Pitch Black[3]

Assembly Rooms in Solihull
Wed 12 Mar: Guest ales were Davenports IPA, Bateman's Hooker and Wood's Shropshire Lass (4.1%) [3]. Regulars Marstons Pedigree, greene King Abbot and IPA also available.

Fleur de Lys in Lowsonford
Sun 9 Mar: Greene King IPA,Abbott, Speckled Hen[3]

Red Lion in Shirley
Sat 8 Mar: Green King IPA [3], surprising but true. I chose it as the lightest one there - as the guest usually is.

Greville Arms in Solihull
Thu 6 Mar: Black Sheep Bitter [3], John Smiths & Bankss Bitter.

Old Colonial in Solihull
Thu 6 Mar: Neither Adnams Bitter or Old Speckled Hen available [0]

Golden Acres in Solihull
Thu 6 Mar: Shepherd Neame Spitfire & Scattor Rock Scattor Brain [3]. Springhead Bitter had just finished, to be replaced by a welsh beer from Wye Valley.

The Highwood in Highwood Rd, Olton
Wed 5 Mar: Adnams Bitter [3], in a lively local

Hobs Meadow in Hobs Moat, off Lode Lane
Wed 5 Mar: Ansells Mild, Fullers London Pride [3] obviously refurbished recently.

Assembly Rooms in Solihull
Wed 5 Mar: Guests were Arundel Sussex Bitter, Batemans XXXB and York Brewery Guzzler (3.6%) [3+]. Also on were regular offerings Marstons Pedigree and Purity Pure Gold. The Greene King Abbot and IPA were both off.

The Black SWwan in Henley
Mon 3 Mar: Banks Bitter, Bateman's XB [3]

The Wharf Tavern in Hockley Heath
Mon 3 Mar: Courage Directors [2], Marston's Pedigree, Theakston's Best, Old Speckled Hen

Assembly Rooms in Solihull
Sat 1 Mar: Purity Gold [0]+ four or five others. The Gold was definitely off and was changed without problem.

O'Neill's in Solihull
Sat 1 Mar: Wychwood Dirty Tackle [3], Caledonian Tryd &Tested [4]

Assembly Rooms in Solihull
Sat 1 Mar: Guest ales were Dark Star Hophead (3.8%) [3], Evan Evans Bitter and Belgian Fruit Beer. Also available: Purity Pure Gold, Marstons Pedigree, Greene King Abbot and IPA.

NBSS

Assembly Rooms in Solihull
Thu 28 Feb: Guest beers were Belgian Fruit Beer, Purity UBU and Evan Evans Bitter (4.4%) [4]. White Horse Brewery Giant had run out. Also on were Marstons Pedigree, Greene King Abbot and IPA.

White Swan in Solihull
Thu 21 Feb: Guests were Wells Bombardier [4], JW Lees John Willie's (4.5%)[4] together with regular offerings Greene King IPA, Abbot [4] and Marstons Pedigree.

Fieldhouse in Monkspath, Solihull
Wed 20 Feb: Arundel Sussex Gold [4], Greene King Chariot, Batemans XB, Abbott Ale & Brew X1.

Vaults in Knowle
Tue 19 Feb: Ossett Snowdrop [3], Oakham White Dwarf [4], Wychwood Dirty Tackle as well as the regulars.

VAULTS in KNOWLE
Fri 15 Feb: SLATERS QUEEN BEE - 4 EVERARDS PITCH BLACK(and it was) 3

RED LION in KNOWLE
Sun 17 Feb: Five beers on but only 2 guests Robinsons Tempus Fugit - 2 Old Mill Old Curiosity 2 Both were too warm and lacked condition - probably as not many people were drinking them.

VAULTS in KNOWLE
Sun 17 Feb: Start of mini beer festival. Tried Oakham White Dwarf 3 and Ossett Snowdrop 4. More beers to come as each one runs out.

Boat in Catherine-de-Barnes
Sun 17 Feb: Wells Bombardier, Greene King IPA and guest beer Batemans XXXB [4]

Assembly Rooms in Solihull
Sun 17 Feb: Purity Gold [3], Banks & Taylor Shefford Bitter [3], Purity UBU, Green King IPA, Hook Norton Double Stout, Abbot Ale.

Harvester in Olton
Fri 15 Feb: Cottage Brewery The Whippet Strikes Back (4.1%) [3], Salopian Lemon Dream (4.5%) [4], Goffs White Knight (4.7%) [4].

Fieldhouse in Monkspath
Wed 13 Feb: Gales Swing Low (3.8%) [3]; Wychwood Dirty Tackle (4.0%) [3]; Wyre Piddle Piddler on the Roof (4.2%) [1]; Greene King Abbot Ale (5.0%)

Blue Bell Cider House in Warings Green
Wed 13 Feb: Robinsons Tempus Fugit (4.2%) [4]; Ruddles Best Bitter (3.7%); Brains SA (4.2%)

Masons Arms in Solihull
Mon 11 Feb: Black Sheep [1], Bass [2]

Hogshead in Solihull
Mon 11 Feb: Skinners Best Bitter [2], Wadworth's Henry's IPA

White Swan in Solihull
Mon 11 Feb: Arundel Sussex Gold [4], Cains Bitter [3], Greene King Abbot Ale, Marston's Pedigree, Greene King IPA

White Swan in Solihull
Wed 13 Feb: Regulars: Greene King IPA and Abbot [4] plus Marstons Pedigree. Guests: Cains Bitter, which ran out whilst we were there and Pivovar Herold Black Chalice, a bohemian schwarzbier (4.8%) [4]- absolutely splendid.

Boat in Catherine-de-Barnes
Sun 10 Feb: Wells Bombardier, Greene King IPA [4] and guest Shepherd Neame Bishops Finger (5%) [4]

Red Lion in Shirley
Sat 9 Feb: Adnams Bitter [3], Cottage Wessex Warmer (4.5%) [4], assisted by live music

Black Swan in Henley
Sat 9 Feb: Banks [3], they say their normal guest beer (currently off) is from a new Stratford brewery.

Bernies Real Ale Off-Licence in Shirley
Fri 8 Feb: Abbeydale Epiphany [3], E & S Goldrush [4],Oakham Bishop's Farewell [4], Taylor Landlord. A great choice of premium bitters.

Bell in Tanworth-in-Arden
Wed 6 Feb: TT Landlord & Caledonian Deuchars IPA [2]

Colebrook in Shirley
Wed 6 Feb: GK Abbot, Black Sheep Bitter, Pedigree, Old Speckled Hen, Fullers London Pride & TT Landlord [2]

Assembly Rooms in Solihull
Wed 6 Feb: What a superb choice! Apart from the regular Greene King Abbot and Marstons Pedigree, the following were on offer: Purity UBU, Burton Bridge Sovereign Gold, Newmans Red Stag Bitter (3.6%), Weymouth Jurassic (4.7%) [4], Okells Aile Smokey celtic Porter (4.8%) [4], Vale Pale Ale and Archers IPA. Wetherspoons are already advertising their Real Ale festivals for 2008, these being Thursday 27 March to Monday 14 April and Thursday 30 October to Sunday 16 November. Make a note in your diary!

Coach House in Solihull
Mon 4 Feb: This pub has just re-opened after refurbishment and is now sporting Marston's branding. However, a great opportunity has been lost as this pub still lacks character - and real ale [0].

Dog Inn in Nether Whitacre
Thu 31 Jan: Although not in the Solihull branch area, this pub is well worth a visit as I've reported before. They seem to have bucked the recent trend and had MORE handpumps installed! Beers on were Wells Bombardier, Marstons Pedigree and guest beers Fullers London Pride, Ruddles County [4] and Adnams Bitter [4]. A delightful, characterful country pub with good food and very well kept real ales.

NBSS

The Reservoir in Earlswood
Sat 26 Jan: The mini beer festival: Oakham Inferno (4%) [4]. Danish Dynamite (5%) [4] and York's Yorkshire Terrier (4.2%) [4] - yes I enjoyed myself.

Red Lion in Shirley
Thu 31 Jan: Marstons Pedigree [4] - and I normally go for the guest

Assembly Rooms in Solihull
Sat 2 Feb: 10 pump clips showing, 2 on tap, Purity Pure UBU (4.5%) [3] & Tom Wood's Old Timber (4.5%) [4] in pleasant new surroundings. Welcome to a new real ale pub in Solihull.

White Swan in Solihull
Wed 30 Jan: Star of the guest beers today is Tring Brewery Legless Lal's Winter Ale (4.5%)[4], a seasonal beer available Jan/Feb. Absolutely superb! Also on is Purity Pure Gold, Marstons Pedigree, Greene King Abbot and IPA.

Wharf in Hockley Heath
Tue 29 Jan: Theakstons Original Bitter, Brains 4.5 & Courage Directors

Royal Oak in Wood End
Tue 29 Jan: Green King IPA [2], Brew X1

Winged Spur in Ullenhall
Tue 29 Jan: Milton Sparta [4], Hop Back Special, Joblings Swinging Gilblet (just finished). Bottled beers. Recommendations of beers to accompany dishes on the menu is a nice touch.

Rowington Club in Rowington
Thu 24 Jan: Wye Valley Butty Bach [4], Flowers IPA, Green King IPA.

Navigation in Lapworth
Thu 24 Jan: Holden's bitter [3], Taylor Landlord, Adnams bitter, Highgate Mild. Thatcher's Gold Cider + guest (Old Rosie at the time). New Management Karen & Jake Palfrey keen to take the pub forward.

Old Joint Stock in Birmingham
Sat 26 Jan: Not on Solihull's "patch" but worth a mention if you go into Brum. Fuller's beers on were: Old Winter Ale, Chiswick Bitter, ESB, London Pride and Discovery [2]. The Discovery was a bit disappointing - it is usually better than this. No Beowulf beers on this time.

Drawbridge in Shirley
Thu 24 Jan: Bombardier [4] Only this beer on

Vaults in Knowle
Thu 24 Jan: Tetley Bitter, Caledonian Deuchars IPA, Gales HSB, Ansells Mild, Wychwood Hobgoblin & Tring Colleys Dog [2].

Red Lion in Knowle
Thu 24 Jan: Tim Taylor Landlord, Brew XI, York Terrier & Orkney Red McGregor [3]

Greswolde in Knowle
Thu 24 Jan: Wells Bombardier & Caledonian Deuchars IPA [2]

Wilsons Arms in Knowle
Thu 24 Jan: Bass [1]

White Swan in Solihull
Wed 23 Jan: Guest beers today are Purity UBU and Hook Norton Double Stout [3]. Regulars are Greene King Abbot and Marstons Pedigree. The Greene king IPA was off. There is a special offer for Burns Night, Jan. 25th: Caledonian 80/- at £1.79 per pint, but it is limited availability on the day so get it while you can!

Saddlers Arms in Solihull
Tue 22 Jan: Marstons Burton Bitter [2]. Only £1.83/pint - what is happening with the beer prices in Solihull? - must be the Wetherspoons effect.

Fieldhouse in Monkspath
Sun 20 Jan: Oakham Inferno (4.0%) [5]; Mordue Geordie Pride (4.1%) [3]; Elgood's Thin Ice (4.7%) [3]; Cains Dragon Heart (5.0%) [4]

Blue Bell Cider House in Warings Green
Sun 20 Jan: Okell's IPA (4.5%) [4]; Caledonian 80/- (4.1%) [3]

Bulls Head in Meriden
Sun 20 Jan: Again, not in our Branch area but close enough to justify a mention. Wadworth 6X and Tim. Taylor Landlord [4]. This pub has been refurbished and was very busy with both food and drink orders. It used to be one of the 'Vantage' chain (the Herons Nest at Heronfield is an example) but appears to have broken away. There is no evidence of 'Vantage' branding to be found now.

Queens Head in Meriden
Sun 20 Jan: This is not in our Branch area but is close by. M&B Brew XI, G.K. Ruddles County and draught Bass [4].

The Oak in Hockley Heath
Sun 20 Jan: Purity Gold, Purity UBU [4]At 15:00 Drinking and dining area quite busy, but shops very quiet.

Bird in Hand in Henley in Arden
Sun 20 Jan: Speckled Hen, Highgate Mild [3], Everards Tiger [3]. Pub re-opened today.

The Farm in Monkspath
Fri 18 Jan: Tetley Bitter & Wadworths 6X [2]. Both beers now available in both buildings.

Fieldhouse in Monkspath, Solihull
Wed 16 Jan: Guest beers currently Wychwood January's Ale (3.8%) [4], Elgood's Thin Ice (4.7%) [3] and J W Lees John Willies (4.5%). Those sample were cool (more so that at our festival) but not overly so... certainly not enough to frost the glass or impair the flavour. I'll continue to monitor.

White Swan in Solihull
Wed 16 Jan: Guest beer was Purity Pure Gold [2]. It was a bit too cold and had a slightly metallic tang to the taste. Purity UBU was off. Regular beers were Marstons Pedigree, Greene King Abbot [3] and IPA.

Herons Nest in Heronfield nr Knowle
Wed 16 Jan: Everards Tiger [2].

Cock Horse in Rowington
Wed 16 Jan: Fullers London Pride, Hook Norton Hooky Bitter & Caledonian Deuchars IPA [4].

The Fieldhouse in Solihull
Mon 14 Jan: Having reported to Julia Hammonds my concern about the extra chilled bitter on my previous visit, I ventured out to the Fieldhouse last night for another sample of their hand pulled bitters. A good selection of bitters was available. The beer was still over chilled for my liking but certainly was not as chilled as the previous Monday when the beer was so cold it was tasteless. I did express my concern with the Bar staff who explained that they have a separate chiller for the lager beers and they can separately control the temperature of the bitters. I am concerned that the trend for serving lager beer extra chilled was also spreading to the bitter as well. I would be interested to hear if anybody else has noticed this.

Navigation in Lapworth
Mon 14 Jan: Holdens Bitter, Highgate Mild, Timothy Taylor Lanlord [4], Adnams Bitter. New Managers very enthusiastic.

Red Lion in Knowle
Tue 15 Jan: Brew X1, Timothy Taylor Landlord, Moreland Old Speckled Hen plus guests Fullers Chiswick Bitter [4], York Yorkshire Terrier & Orkney Red McGregor about to come on. The Fullers was in very good form and at the right temperature.

Rowington Club in Rowington
Mon 14 Jan: Flowers IPA, Church End - What the Fox's That, Archers guest

Bernies Real Ale Off-Licence in Shirley
Sat 12 Jan: Phoenix White Monk [5] & Double Gold [5]. Thornbridge Jaipur [5] (Mother, I'm in Heaven!) & Taylor Landlord always available now. Rich's Medium Draft Cider also available from now on.

O'Neill's in Solihull
Thu 10 Jan: Deuchars IPA [4], Landlord [4]

White Swan in Solihull
Wed 9 Jan: Caledonian 80/- (4.1%) [5] and Purity Pure Gold are the guest beers today. The Caledonian is in excellent form. Regulars on are Greene King IPA and Abbot plus Marstons Pedigree.

Reservoir in Earlswood
Sun 6 Jan: Blacksheep Riggwelter [4] Courage Bitter

Golden Acres in Solihull
Fri 4 Jan: Slaters High Five & Blue Bear White Bear [4] - £2.15/pint, no worries about the £3 pint in this part of Solihull.

Greville Arms in Solihull
Fri 4 Jan: Bankss Bitter, Black Sheep Bitter & Shepherd Neame Spitfire [3] - £2.05/pint, bargain. Good to see Real Ale back in here after a long absence.

Harvester in Okton
Thu 3 Jan: Cottage Brewery Merry Hound (4.2%) [4]. Makes my tail wag.

White Swan in Solihull
Wed 2 Jan: Regulars: Marstons Pedigree, Greene King IPA and Abbot. Guest ales: Butcombe Brunel 200 IPA (5.0%) and Everards Sleigh Bell (4.5%) [3].

The Forest in Dorridge
Thu 3 Jan: Tribute [4] Wyre Piddle's Piddle in The Snow (5.2%) {3}

NBSS

Colebrook in Shirley
Sun 30 Dec: Timothy Taylor Landlord [3], Black Sheep Bitter, Marston's Pedigree & Old Speckled Hen

Boat in Catherine-de-Barnes
Sun 23 Dec: Wells Bombardier, Greene King IPA and guest ale Wychwood Festive Spirits (4.7%) [3]

Malt Shovel in Barston
Sun 23 Dec: Timothy Taylor Landlord, M&B Brew XI and St. Austell Tribute [3].

Hogshead in Solihull
Fri 21 Dec: Well.s Bombardier and guest ale (still on) Springhead Fallen Angel [3].

O'Neill's in Solihull
Sat 22 Dec: Caledonian Deuchars IPA [2]& Timothy Taylor Landlord.

White Swan in Solihull
Sat 22 Dec: various usual beers, Purity Gold and Purity UBU - both good [3]

Bernies in Shirley
Fri 21 Dec: Tim T Landlord, Yorkshire Terrier [3], Thornbridge Jaipur [4] so get it while you can, and also Richs cider

Old Sills Rugby Club in Solihull / Knowle
Wed 19 Dec: Green King IPA; Oakham Raucous Reindeer

Church Inn in Birmingham
Wed 19 Dec: The changes to the Church Inn, 22 Great Hampton Street continue: Old tel no discontinued, the new one is 0121 523 2088. Email thechurchinhockley@hotmail.com, Web www.myspace.com/thechurchinnhockley. They are ripping off the wallpaper currently, but still provide a warm welcome and open fires in this Victorian community pub. They still provide excellent Bathams Bitter and Burton Bridge Bitter. The food is rather more expensive than recent times at 12.75 for a steak and chips. All in all an excellent venue, with live music on a Saturday evening.

Case Is Altered in Mousley End
Sun 16 Dec: Hook Norton Twelve Days (5.5%) [4]; Slater's Premium (4.4%) [4]; Slaughterhouse Saddleback (3.8) [3]; Sharp's Doom Bar; Greene King IPA

White Swan in Solihull
Tue 18 Dec: Guests: RCH Steam Sleigh (3.8%) [3] and Shepherd Neame Bishops Finger (5%). Regulars: Marstons Pedigree, Greene King Abbot and IPA.

Hogshead in Solihull
Sun 16 Dec: Wells Bombardier & a surprise guest beer - Springhead Fallen Angel [3]

Throckmorton Arms in Alcester
Sat 15 Dec: Tribute, Hookey[3], Hobsons Bitter[4]

Blue Bell in Henley in Arden
Fri 14 Dec: Hookey [4], Black Sheep

Bernies in Shirley
Fri 14 Dec: Tim Taylor Landlord, Holdens BC Bitter, something from Church End, Nethergate Old Growler [4] - porter

Black Boy in Heronfield
Wed 12 Dec: Fullers London Pride & St Austell Tribute [2] - good condition, but too cold.

Bluebell in Warings Green
Wed 12 Dec: Fullers Chiswick & Caledonian 80/- [3] - strange taste, but think of it as a Mild rather than a Bitter and it's OK.

White Swan in Solihull
Tue 11 Dec: Guest ales: Springhead The Leveller (4.8%) [4] and Springhead Roundhead's Gold (4.2%). Regulars Greene King IPA and Abbot, also Marstons Pedigree.

Boat in Catherine-de-Barnes
Sat 8 Dec: Regulars Wells Bombardier [4] and Greene King IPA. The guest ale had been Highgate Pride & Joy (3.8%) but this had run out and was awaiting replacement.

Field House in Monkspath
Sun 9 Dec: Bombardier[4], Old Hookey [4] Abbot, Broadside, Brew X1 Everards Yule Fuel(4.0%)

Bernies Real Ale Off-Licence in Shirley
Fri 7 Dec: Phoenix White Monk [4+], Ossett Excelsior [4] Church End Fallen Angel plus yet another new Church End Beer (Greg?).

Fluer de Lys in Lowesonford
Tue 4 Dec: Ruddles County, Green King IPA & Abbot Ale

Bernies Real Ale Off-Licence in Shirley
Sat 1 Dec: Thornbridge Jaipur [5] and a yet another new beer from Church End, which was also very drinkable!

Black Swan in Henley-in-Arden
Wed 5 Dec: Davenports IPA [3] & Banks Original

Cock Horse in Rowington
Tue 4 Dec: Hooky Bitter, Deuchars IPA [3] & Fullers Pride

Crown in Claverdon
Tue 4 Dec: M & B Brew X1 and Purity Gold [4]

White Swan in Solihull
Wed 5 Dec: Guest ales today are Highgate Stocking Filler (4.3%) [4] and Highgate Old Ale Winter Warmer (5.35%) [4]. The regulars are Greene King IPA and Abbot, and Marstons Pedigree.

Red Lion in Shirley
Mon 3 Dec: Regulars Marston's Pedigree, Adnams Bitter and Draught Bass were joined by Slater's Premium (4.4%) [3] which ran out, but was replace by Cottage's HST (4.4%?) [4]

NBSS

The Harvester in Olton
Mon 18 Nov: Cottage Brewery Trembling Whippet, 4.1% [3], Greene King (Morland) Old Speckled Hen, 4.5% [3], Woods Wonderful, 4.8% [4+]. Wonderful in all senses of the word.

White Lion in Hampton in Arden
Sat 1 Dec: Brew XI, Black Sheep Bitter, Hook Norton Old Hooky and Adnams Bitter [3] - not sure which is the guest. Good food.

Heron's Next in Heronfield (Knowle)
Sat 1 Dec: Tim Taylors Landlord, Everards Tiger [3]

Town House in Solihull
Sat 1 Dec: Wells and Youngs Bombardier [4] £2.85/pint

The Colebrook in Shirley
Fri 30 Nov: Reopened after a minor refurb. 8 handpumps and 7 beers. Tuesday deal includes food & something blonde and fizzy, or a real one. Regulars: TT Landlord, Pedigree, GK Abbot. Guests: Black Sheep, Adnams Explorer, Deuchars XPA & Everards Original [3] (although I think they were slightly confused with their "guest" tags)

Coach House in Solihull
Fri 30 Nov: Still no real ale. Not worth bothering with.

White SWan in Solihull
Wed 28 Nov: Regulars on were Marstons Pedigree and Greene King IPA. Guests: Purity UBU [3+]. Davenports IPA had just run out and Otter Ale (4.5%) shown as "coming soon".

Colebrook in Shirley
Mon 26 Nov: Open after refurbishment. 8 diff pumpclips showing and it was said when asked that all 8 were available. Plan is to have 5 on at any time. Caledonian XPA [3]. Caledonian XPA

Dog Inn in Nether Whitacre
Sun 25 Nov: Although not in the Solihull branch area, this is a gem of a pub and well worth a visit. Regular ales are Wells Bombardier, M&B Brew XI and Marstons Pedigree. There is a regularly-changing guest ale as well, which on this occasion was Buckleys Best Bitter (3.7%) [4]. Excellent food is also served here.

Bullsd Head in Earlswood
Fri 23 Nov: Thwaites Original [3] - only beer available due to late deliveries.

White Swan in Solihull
Wed 21 Nov: Guest ales on today were two superb porters: Nethergate Umbel Magna (5.0%)[4] and Elgoods North Brink Porter (5.0%). Regular ales were Greene King IPA and Abbot, also Marstons Pedigree.

Oak in Hockley Heath
Sat 17 Nov: 10 Festival ales on in the tent with more ready to be tapped as required. Those I tried were Falstaff Fistful of Hops (4.5%) [3+], Newby Wyke England Expects (4.6%)[3+] and Oakham Gravity (5.1%) [4]. Also tried Houston Tartan Terror (4.5%). This is an acquired taste and may not be to everyone's liking but, nonetheless, worth a rating of [3].

Colebrook in Shirley
Tue 20 Nov: Currently closed for refurbishment.

The Oak in Hockley Heath
Fri 16 Nov: 10 ales available in the festival tent with more ready to be tapped and spiled if needed. Stars of the show are Oakham's Gravity (5.1%) [4] and Leatherbritches Spiced Berry Mild (4.4%) [3+]. Thornbridge's Hark! (4.8%) [3], brewed with coriander, must be tried! Indoors: Purity Pure UBU (4.5%) [4]; Purity Gold

Fieldhouse in Monkspath
Thu 15 Nov: The Cask Fresh Ale festival continues with Enville Ale (4.5%) [3]; Burton Bridge Bitter (4.2%) [3]; Wood's Parish Bitter (4.0%); Holden's Black Country Bitter (3.9%).

White Swan in Solihull
Thu 15 Nov: The Real Ale festival draws towards a close with Robinson's Old Tom (8.5%) [3+] a rich toffee apple smell; Oakham's Jeffry Hudson Bitter (3.8%) [3] distinct cut grass smell; Cains Creamy Stout (4.1%) [4]

Barn in Hockley Heath
Wed 14 Nov: Bass [2]

Wharf in Hockley Heath
Wed 14 Nov: Usuals - Pedigree, Directors & Theakstons Best. Guest - Black Sheep Bitter [2].

The Red Lion in Shirley
Thu 8 Nov: the 4th pump is back in action. Bass, Marstons Pedigree, Adnams Bitter and Wentworth Imperial [3]

Fieldhouse in Solihull
Tue 13 Nov: Festival beers are currently Holden's Black Country Bitter 3.9% [3], Burton Bridge's Bridge Bitter 4.2%, Wood's Parish Bitter 4.0% and a really excellent Enville Ale 4.5% [4+] (even my philistine Stella-drinking companion liked this).

White Swan in Solihull
Mon 12 Nov: Festival ales available were Moorhouse's Black Cat [3+], Banks' Salute and Anker Gouden Carolus Blond.

Harvester in Olton
Sat 10 Nov: Cottage Brewery HST (4.4%) [3], Salopian Lemon Dream (4.5%) [4].

Oak in Hockley Heath
Sat 10 Nov: Purity UBU[3](£2.80/pint), Purity Gold[3] (£2.70/pint. No extra charge for halves. Tunnel brewery pump clip turned round.

Golden Acres in Solihull
Fri 9 Nov: Wye Valley Bitter [3], Church End Boston Fat Boy [4] & Scattor Rock Autumn Nights [3]. Chinese meals cheap, tasty & quick, well recommended.

Vaults in Knowle
Thu 8 Nov: Guest Ales: Downtown Amerquad 4.0% (3), Wentworth Marbled White, Wentworth Oatmeal Stout 4.8% (4 - delicious), Dark Star Meltdown 5.0%. Festival going well.

Fieldhouse in Monkspath, Solihull
Tue 6 Nov: Guest Ales: Kelham Island Easy Rider (3), Yorkshire Terrier, Moorhouses Black Cat Mild.

White Swan in Solihull
Thu 8 Nov: Festival ales on today were Titanic Iceberg (4.1%) [3+], Cains Fine Raisin Beer (5.0%) [4] and Greene King Abbot Reserve (6.5%). The regulars were Greene King IPA and Marstons Pedigree.

White Swan in Solihull
Wed 7 Nov: Marston's Pedigree, Greene King IPA & from the festival Batemans XXXB (4.8%)[3] & Cains Raisin Beer (5.0%)[2]. Not many festival beers left to come on.

Bernies in Shirley
Wed 7 Nov: Tim Taylors Landlord, York Terrier and I went for the Phoenix (4.1%) Arizona [3], samples as usual

White Swan in Solihull
Tue 6 Nov: Festival ales on today were Robinsons Old Tom (8.5%), Highgate Davenports IPA (4.0%) [2] - on its last legs - and Banks' Salute Ale (4.1%) [3+]. Regulars Marstons Pedigree and Greene King IPA also available.

Saxon in Cheswick Green
Sat 3 Nov: Draught Bass (4.4%) [2]

Woodman's Rest in Shirley
Sat 3 Nov: Ember Inn's Cask Fresh Ale festival continues, but is not much in evidence here. Pump clips for Otter Ale, Sharp's Doom Bar, Stonehenge Pigswill and Black Sheep were showing, but only the Black Sheep [2+] was available.

Lyndon in Olton
Sat 3 Nov: Disappointing selection of Greene King IPA or Marston's Pedigree. Didn't stay to taste them.

Farm in Monkspath, Solihull
Sat 3 Nov: Tetley Bitter and Wadworth's 6X [3+]. Competently kept pint of 6X. Didn't try the Tetleys but it looked in good form.

Town House in Solihull
Sat 3 Nov: Bombardier has been replaced by Bass [2]

Bernies Real Ale Off-Licence in Shirley
Fri 2 Nov: Beers from Roosters, Woodfordes and Mayfield featured. New owner Charlie Joannou intends to keep up the standards set by Brian and Dave over the last 25 years.

Bernies Real Ale Off-Licence in Shirley
Fri 2 Nov: Beers from Roosters, Woodfordes and Mayfield featured. Fernandes and Phoenix coming soon. New owner Charlie Joannou intends to keep up the standards set by Brian and Dave.

White Swan (Wetherspoons) in Solihull
Sat 3 Nov: Hampshire king Alfred's [3]

Hogshead in Solihull
Sat 3 Nov: London Pride, Bombardier[4] This is their beer festival but they did have Greene King IPA on earlier

NBSS

Fieldhouse in Monkspath
Thu 1 Nov: Stonehenge Pigswill [2],Otter Ale, M&B Brew XI & Badger Tanglefoot

White Swan in Solihull
Thu 1 Nov: Day one of the Wetherspoons Real Ale festival: Guests were Ecaussinnes Fruit Beer (5.0%), Moorhouse's Black Cat (3.4%) and Thwaites Flying Shuttle (4.6%) [5]. "Shuttle" is a new beer brewed as part of the brewery's 200th Anniversary celebrations - and a superb ale it is too! Regulars on were Greene King IPA and Marstons Pedigree.

Saddlers Arms in Solihull
Wed 31 Oct: Two handpumps, both dispensing Marstons Burton Bitter [4]. A bit disappointing that there were not two real ales on but can't complain at the price (£1.78 per pint).

Winged Spur in Ullenhall
Tue 30 Oct: Wye Valley Bitter, Wadworths 6X & Phoenix White Tornado [4] - very fruity, plus splendid Halloween decorations!

The Oak in Hockley Heath
Mon 29 Oct: Purity UBU and Pure Gold [4]. Tunnel brewery's Trade Winds had run out. The Pure Gold here was the best pint of this beer I have ever had, possibly because it was served at just the right temperature.

The Harvester in Olton
Mon 29 Oct: Goff's White Knight (4.7%) [3+], Adnam's Broadside (4.7%) [3+], Cottage Brewery Norman's Conquest (5.0%) [4]. Also usual John Smith's Cask and Greene King Abbot. Not a bad selection .

Metro Bar & Grill in Solihull
Fri 26 Oct: Fullers London Pride and Davenports IPA Export Bitter (4.0%) [4]. This appears to be a new brew from Highgate (Davenports) as it does not appear on the brewery website. This is a light golden bitter with a very nice light, clean, almost citrussy bitterness. Very well kept and not too cold! Pricey at £2.90 per pint, though.

Barley Mow in Solihull
Fri 26 Oct: No real ale [0].

The Colebrook Inn in Shirley
Thu 25 Oct: tail end of last week's beers still on sale and 3 beers from the new week's list. Shep Neame Kent's Best [2] a bit cold and Adnams Explorer [3] better

White Swan in Solihull
Wed 24 Oct: Marstons Pedigree and Old Empire [3+], Greene King IPA and Abbot plus Purity Pure Gold.

Metro Bar in Solihull
Tue 23 Oct: Fullers London Pride & Davenports IPA [2] - back under £3/pint (£1.45/half), but shame the Enville has gone.

The Colebrook Inn in Shirley
Tue 23 Oct: Titanic (4.5%) Engine Room [1] - very frothy to pour, took ages to top up the glass (they did this without being asked) and offered a replacement when I pointed out it was cloudy.

Holly Bush in Alcester
Sat 20 Oct: Regular beers:- Black Sheep, Purity Gold,UBU,Uley Bitter. Guests:- Goff's Merlin[4], Spitfire,Hobgoblin,Hornbeam (brewing from July 2007 - GBG)Top Hop[4]

Woodman's Rest in Shirley
Wed 17 Oct: Marston's Pedigree, Greene King Abbot Ale, Duchy Originals Organic & Black Sheep Bitter [3]

White Swan in Solihull
Wed 17 Oct: Greene King IPA and Abbot, Marstons Pedigree and Old Empire plus Rooster's White Rose (4.3%) [3].

Harvester in Tanhouse Farm Road, Olton?
Tue 16 Oct: Salopian Brewery Golden Thread 5.0% [4]. Cottage Brewery Norman's Conquest [4] GBG says it is 7.0%, blackboard in pub says 5.0%. Tastes like 7.0% but at £2.40 a pint!!! Suits you sir!

The Navigation in Lapworth
Sun 14 Oct: Great country pub. Warm and friendly staff, and locals. Good beer and food, all at reasonable prices. Timothy Taylor’s Landlord [4], Holden’s Black country Bitter (3.9%)[3], Brew XI as a guest, another guest bitter. Rosies cider (7.3%) [3] Andrew leaves at the end of Oct may run to Nov, so under new management for Xmas. Food was excellent, beer great and the food prices reasonable.

Red Lion in Knowle
Thu 11 Oct: Cairngorn Trade Winds [5], Harviestoun Bitter & Twisted, Taylor Landlord, Reverend James, Duchy Organic, Brew X1, Speckled Hen. Cask Fresh Ale Festival 12th October - 25th November will feature beers from different areas of the Country each week.

Oak in Hockley Heath
Fri 12 Oct: Purity Gold [3], Purity UBU, Tunnel IPA. Beer festival planned for 3rd & 4th November - to be run by Purity with guest ales.

Orange Tree in Chadwick End
Thu 11 Oct: Tetley Bitter, Hook Norton Old Hooky & Greene King IPA [2]

Durham Ox in Shrewley
Thu 11 Oct: Greene King IPA not on, Hardy & Hansons Olde Trip [2] - not as expensive as expected, £2.45/pint.

White Swan in Solihull
Wed 10 Oct: It seems to be "regular ale" day today. Available were Marston's Burton Bitter and Pedigree, Greene King Abbot and IPA plus Purity Pure Gold. The Greene King IPA was in superb condition [4+].

Harvester in Olton
Tue 9 Oct: Cottage Brewery Golden Arrow [4] + four other usual offerings.

Boat in Catherine-de-Barnes
Fri 5 Oct: Wells Bombardier, Greene King IPA and guest ale Marstons Sweet Chariot [2+].

Oak in Hockley Heath
Wed 3 Oct: Purity Pure Gold [4], Purity UBU, Tunnel IPA. Also Leffe Blonde on draught and an interesting organic lager called Freedom!! What agreat real ale gain and well worth a visit.

Masons Arms in Solihull
Fri 28 Sep: Salvation of sorts. Bass and Black Sheep Best Bitter (3.8%). [2]

Pop World in Solihull
Fri 28 Sep: No real Ale

Slug & Lettuce in Solihull
Fri 28 Sep: No real ale.

NBSS

Golden Acres in Solihull
Fri 28 Sep: Harviestoun Late Harvest [3], Purity Pure Gold [4], St Austell Tribute [3].

Coach House in Solihull
Fri 28 Sep: Still no Real Ale in here [0].

Drum & Monkey in Dorridge
Mon 24 Sep: Wells Bombardier (4.3%) [3]

Blue Bell Cider House in Warings Green
Mon 24 Sep: Caledonian Try'd & Tested (4.2%) [4]; Weatheroak Light Oak (3.6) [3]; Jennings Cumberland Ale (4.0) [3]

Bulls Head in Barston
Wed 26 Sep: Hook Norton Hooky Bitter, Adnams Bitter, Ruddles County & Hardy & Hansons Olde Trip [3].

White Swan in Solihull
Wed 26 Sep: Greene King IPA [4] and Abbot, Marstons Pedigree, plus Purity UBU. Guest beer Banks & Taylor Dragon Slayer was "not available". The IPA was served a bit too cold but improved greatly after being allowed to warm up for about 20 minutes.

Bulls Head in Furnace End, Shustoke
Sun 23 Sep: Marstons Pedigree, Jennings Snecklifter and Marstons Sweet Chariot [4]. Okay, this pub is not in the Solihull Branch area but is well worth a visit, as is the GBG-listed Griffin nearby.

Municipal Club in Shirley
Fri 14 Sep: Black Sheep, Old Hookey[3] Iwas told some time ago that they would have a second beer.

Olton Tavern in Olton, Solihull
Wed 19 Sep: A great opportunity has been wasted to make Real Ale available again following refurbishment. Despite the recent advertising claiming to offer draught beers and cask ales, there is no Real Ale offered at all. Fizz Fountains only, sorry! [0].

Highwood in Olton, Solihull
Wed 19 Sep: Don't bother. This pub does not serve real Ale [0].

Red Lion in Knowle
Tue 18 Sep: Arundel Castle [4], Duchy Organic Original [3], Timothy Taylor Landlord, Brew X1 & Speckled Hen. Fullers Seafarers (3.8%) about to come on. There shouold normally be six real ales available. Look for the guest handpumps and blackboard that are not easy to spot when you first walk in!

Vaults in Knowle
Tue 18 Sep: Reverand James [3], Springhead Roaring Meg, Deuchars IPA, Gales HSB, Ansells Mild & Tetley Bitter.

Red Lion in Claverdon
Tue 18 Sep: Hook Norton Bitter & Purity Gold [2] - reasonable, but poor given Purity's relentless high standards. Probably NOT the Brewery's fault! NB - still no pumpclips used.

Black Swan in Henley in Arden
Tue 18 Sep: Bankss Original & Davenports IPA [3]. They got off fairly lightly after the flash floods in July, as their cellar is above ground level. However the Bird in Hand further up the hill wasnt so lucky and is apparently still closed, so may appreciate some support from us when it reopens.

White Swan in Solihull
Tue 18 Sep: Usual Greene King Abbot, Marstons Pedigree and Burton, also Purity Pure Gold and Springhead Sweet Lips (4.6%) [3]

Red Lion in Shirley
Sat 15 Sep: Hop Back (3.5%) GFB [4]

Bernies Real Ale Off-Licence in Shirley
Fri 14 Sep: Beers from White Horse & Red Lion Breweries. Both very good [4].

Three Tuns in Henley in Arden
Wed 12 Sep: Fullers London Pride [2] & Timothy Taylor Landlord.

Bluebell in Henley in Arden
Wed 12 Sep: Shepherd Neame Spitfire, Black Sheep Bitter & Purity Gold [3].

Black Swan in Henley in Arden
Wed 12 Sep: Banks's Original & Davenports IPA [3]

White Swan in Solihull
Wed 12 Sep: Guest ale was Wychwood Wychcraft (3.8%), usually available only in bottle but also seasonally in cask [4]. Also on was Purity Pure Gold, UBU, Marstons Pedigree and Greene King Abbot.

Crabmill in Preston Bagot
Tue 11 Sep: Purity UBU (4.5%)[3],Tetley & Greene King Abbot Ale. Expensive at £1.35 a half for the UBU, but it was a lined glass.

Drawbridge in Majors Green
Mon 10 Sep: Wells Bombardier, Caledonian Deuchars IPA [3], Pedigree, Directors.

Boat in Catherine-de-Barnes
Sun 9 Sep: Regulars Wells Bombardier [3] and Greene King IPA. The guest beer had run out (pump clip turned round - believed to be a Wadworths ale but cannot confirm this). There has also been a change of Manager at this pub recently.

Bernies in Shirley
Sat 8 Sep: Fernandes (4.1%) Centennial [5] also Phoenix Spotland Gold, TT Landlord, and Hopback Summer Lightning

Wharf in Hockley Heath
Fri 7 Sep: Old Speckled Hen, Theakston Best Bitter [3], Marston's Pedigree & Courage Directors.

Nag's Head in Henley in Arden
Wed 5 Sep: Charles Well's Bombardier [3]

White Swan in Henley in Arden
Wed 5 Sep: Black Sheep Bitter, Hook Norton Hooky Bitter [3] & Adnams Broadside

Red Lion in Shirley
Wed 5 Sep: Cotleigh Harrier Lite(3.5%)[4], Marston's Pedigree & Adnams Bitter

NBSS

Bernies in Shirley
Sat 1 Sep: Fernandes Simcoe (4.1%) [4]

Golden Acres in Solihull
Fri 31 Aug: Scattor Rock Guzzler [3], Harviestoun Liberty Ale [3] & Charles Wells Bombardier.

Red House in Solihull
Fri 31 Aug: Thwaites Original [2] & Thwaites Lancaster Bomber

Fieldhouse in Monkspath
Thu 30 Aug: Highgate Pheasant Plucker (4.1%) [4]; Smiles Blond (3.7%) [3]; Adnams Regatta (4.3%) [3]; Adnams Broadside

Tom o' the Wood in Rowington
Thu 30 Aug: Shepherd Neame Spitfire & Greene King IPA [3]

Navigation in Lapworth
Thu 30 Aug: Bath Spa (3.7%) [2], Highgate Dark Mild. Holdens Black Country Bitter & Timothy Taylor Landlord

Cock Horse in Rowington
Thu 30 Aug: Hook Norton Hooky Bitter, Caledonian Deuchars IPA [2] & Fuller's London Pride

Barley Mow in Solihull
Thu 30 Aug: Dont bother with this pub, no Real Ale in here. [0]

Rowington in Rowington Club
Sun 26 Aug: Theakston (4.2%) Grouse Beater [4] Stonehnge (4%) Pigswill [4] and many others in the beer festival outside RCH Pitchfork [4] at the bar

Punchbowl in Lapworth
Sun 26 Aug: Landlord [2]

Drum & Monkey in Bentley Heath
Sun 26 Aug: Maeston's Night Watchman [2], Hobson's Best Bitter & Charles Wells Bombardier

White Lion in Hampton in Arden
Fri 24 Aug: Hook Norton Old Hooky, Black Sheep Bitter, Adnams Bitter [4] & Brew XI

The Bull's Head in Barston
Tue 21 Aug: 4% Saltair Blonde [4] Ruddles County (4.3) [3] - not the hoppy taste I remember, only on the finish. Adnams Bitter and Hooky Bitter

Red Lion in Knowle
Tue 21 Aug: Hydes (4.1%) Summertime Blue [2] Probably a good beer - far too cold. Most pumps closed at the same time for cleaning

Woodman's Rest in Shirley
Mon 20 Aug: York Guzzler (3.6%) [3]

Blue Bell Cider House in Warings Green
Wed 22 Aug: Wetheroak Light Oak [4], with Theakston Grouse Beater & Marston's Pedigree on soon.

Drawbridge in Major's Green
Wed 22 Aug: Young's Waggledance & Charles Wells Bombardier [3]

Colebrook in Shirley
Wed 22 Aug: Regulars Marstons's Pedigree & Timothy Taylor Landlord. From the August list Hop Back Summer Lightning & Young's Waggledance (5%)[3], with Elgood's Golden Newt on next.

Punchbowl in Lapworth
Wed 22 Aug: Ti