Old Swan Netherton
(Ma Pardoe's)
Halesowen Road, Netherton
Winner of Dudley & South Staffs Branch CAMRA Pub of the Year 2004, the Old Swan has been revived over the last three years from a state of terminal decline by business partners Tim Newey and Paul Cooksey. They have sympathetically renovated the listed building maintaining the Public Bar with its enameled ceiling and coal fired central stove. The cosy Smoke Room at the rear of the Bar also with a welcoming open fire provides a quiet sanctuary where conversation prevails. The large Lounge at the side of the pub has developed into a well patronized restaurant serving a wide range of excellent meals.
Concurrent with these improvements the long defunct Tower Brewery behind the premises has been brought back into use and, under the auspices of former Holt, Plant and Deakin brewer Dave Rawstorne, now provides a range of four regular “home brewed” ales. These include a re-creation of the original “Pardoe’s Home Brew” and are supplemented, from time to time, with seasonal offerings.
The pub has once more become the hub of the surrounding community, playing host to a thriving local trade while welcoming visitors from far and near with good value locally produced beers and food.
Tim, Paul and their welcoming staff have worked hard to raise this establishment to the level of excellence it has now attained and thoroughly deserve the award of Dudley & South Staffs CAMRA Pub of the Year. Long may their success continue.
Jolly Crispin
25 Clarence St, Upper Gornal
Less than 12 months since their arrival at the Jolly Crispin Robin Carey and Karen Sparks were deservedly awarded Dudley Branch Pub of the year 2007. Robin and Karen were able to fend off stiff opposition to maintain a three year winning streak.
Up to 9 real ales and usually a couple of ciders from the cellar continue to draw discerning drinkers both locally and from far and wide.
Dating from the 18th century the small front bar with its oak beamed ceiling, inglenook and cosy corners affords an intimate atmosphere just below street level; mind the steps down on entering. At the rear a large comfortable Lounge provides a spacious gathering place for locals and visitors alike.
On the 558 bus route from Dudley or Wolverhampton
Fountain, Lower Gornal
Alan and Amy have built this pub into a thriving free house during their ownership and were worthy winners of the Dudley & South Staffs Pub of the Year 2002 AND 2003 - two years in a row!
A genuine Black Country Free House offering up to 9 real ales, at least 2 real ciders, bottled Belgian classic beers and numerous fruit wines. Czech and Belgian draught beer also available.
A sympathetic extension at the rear of the pub has added a new kitchen and dining area, enabling the provision of a wide range of meals and snacks, including vegetarian options (no food Sunday evening). Two beer festivals are organized each year (Easter & October).
Visit The Fountain at Temple Street, Gornal
On the 257 Bus Route from Dudley. 46 minutes past the hour in the evenings
from Dudley. Return from Gornalwood Bus Station 15 minutes past the hour.
Also 541 bus to Sedgley and Wolverhampton.
