birmingham best bar none 2014

2014 – 15

David had fought his cancer with great determination over the last 3 years but never gave up on his fundraising activities for one moment during this.

The most recent one, which David started but unfortunately passed away before he was able to finalise, was at the Hyatt Hotel in aid of MacMillan Cancer Research on Saturday 8th November which raised over 13 thousand pounds, David would have been delighted with this.

David was born in South Wales, from a very early age David was involved in charity raising events with the local church, David was a great organiser, loving kind generous, tremendous fun and is so sadly missed. David’s partner Wei Du and family in Wales have loving memories of David. Whilst poorly, David had sought out these words to share as a last testament to all he had ever wanted and to how he viewed those around him. His ideal and desire in life was:

Don’t walk in front of me i may not follow Don’t walk behinD me i may not leaD walk besiDe me anD just be my frienD

tribute to DaviD Cox – Grosvenor G Casino

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Welcome to the seventh Birmingham Best Bar None Awards.

2014 has not been an easy year for those of us involved in Best Bar None; from the amazing licensed premises facing difficult trading conditions to the public sector partners facing significant resource challenges, but as always, in Birmingham we come together to deliver what is best in a city as great as ours.

Birmingham Best Bar None continues to demonstrate our excellent partnership working. Once again West Midlands Fire Service, West Midlands Police and Birmingham City Council’s Licensing, Trading Standards and Environmental Health services have worked together to carry out all the assessments within a very demanding timeline. This is real partnership working and a true multi agency / multi-disciplinary team working collaboratively with the licensed trade.

The resource challenges faced by the partner agencies this year were so great that for a while we thought that Birmingham Best Bar None may not be deliverable in 2014. But, against the odds, here we are tonight to celebrate the fantastic achievements of the licensed premises in our city.

Our scheme is unique; it is a pan-Birmingham scheme; we celebrate all that is good across the whole of the city in the licensed trade.

Achieving Best Bar None Accreditation is not easy! Assessments are against a very comprehensive set of criteria and to be accredited is a true reflection of excellence in management of your premises!

Not only do we ensure that premises across the whole of Birmingham have the opportunity to participate, we also celebrate the variety of different types of licensed venues in the city by having a unique set of categories.

Our Suburban Pub and Suburban Bar categories are always hotly contested and this year is no exception. The evidence provided by many of the pubs and bars that were assessed demonstrates the positive contribution good licensed premises make to a locality and a community. We celebrate this tonight.

Our Hotel Bar category recognises Birmingham as a great Conference City and once again this year Birmingham has hosted some very high profile conferences. Our hotels are also key windows to our city for visitors to major events and/or leisure weekends.

This year we have introduced a new category for our brilliant Casino Bars who offer further choices for visitors to Birmingham.

Our Nightclub Category is another that is hotly contested. Managing and running the complexities of a nightclub cannot be

underestimated, yet once again the assessments evidenced how brilliantly our proprietors, managers, bar staff and door staff do it so well. They showed how really strong teamwork that puts the safety of the customer and premises at the heart of everything they do can pay results.

Our University/Student Bar Category helps to promote a message of safe and responsible drinking to students in Birmingham, many who may be away from home for the first time. Whilst being educated in our great city as guests and honorary Brummies, we want them to remain safe when socialising here.

Birmingham is getting a reputation as a great city for Food! Our Restaurant Bar Category is also well served with some great venues competing this year.

Our City Centre Pub and City Centre Bar categories demonstrate a really high standard and again our city centre licensed trade offer remains second to none!

Our scheme has been described as “inspirational”, “aspirational” and an “exemplar of best practice.” It is all of these and we continue to strive to improve our offer in partnership with our amazing licensed trade.

Best Bar None is a well known and respected national brand. Birmingham Best Bar None enhances and promotes Birmingham as a safe city, a leading leisure city, a top conference city, a city with it all, but above all a great city in which to live, work and play!

Thank you to all the partners who made this happen: West Midlands Fire Service, West Midlands Police, Birmingham City Council Licensing, Trading Standards and Environmental Health. Thank you to our assessors, our judges and our sponsors; without you we would not be able to celebrate everything that is good about Birmingham’s licensed trade.

A special thank you to Free Radio, our media partner in Birmingham Best Bar None.

Most of all Thank You to all the amazing licensed premises featured in this brochure. You continue to do Birmingham proud by Raising the Standard and Raising the Bar!

Have a great night and good luck!

Jacqui Kennedy Director of Regulation & Enforcement

foreworD

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Contents

shortlist CateGories

5birminGhambest bar none

–about the sCheme

6Casino

8City Centrebar

9City CentrePub

11hotel bar

12niGhtClub

14restaurantbar

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shortlist CateGories

16suburban bar

18suburban Pub

24university / stuDent bar

26aCCreDiteD venues 2014 – 2015–PurPle flaG

28Partners

30sPonsors

31suPPorters

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birminGham best bar none

about the sCheme

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broaDway CasinobroaDway Plaza

Built on the former location of Birmingham Children’s’ Hospital, Broadway Casino is housed in a striking listed building giving a perfect backdrop for the City’s leading independent casino.

The skilled team with over 45 years of combined casino operating experience ensures that Broadway Casino is at the forefront of the industry, offering a more sophisticated way of gaming.

Broadway Casino provides a fantastic mix of first class gaming, friendly atmosphere and excellent dining all within a relaxed and welcoming environment.

1-4 Broadway Plaza, 220 Ladywood Middleway, Birmingham B16 8LP

0121 456 5557

www.broadwaycasino.co.uk

GentinG CasinoChinatown, southsiDe

For one of the ultimate nights out in Birmingham you will find Genting Casino located in Chinatown. The venue offers all of the favourite Casino games, including American roulette, Blackjack, Baccarat, Three Card Poker. Slots and Electronic Roulette. Genting Casino Chinatown is at the heart of the Chinese community whether it be meeting for meals or simply a game of Mah-Jong.

The Chinatown venue is also designed for those who love the personal touch, great customer service and the exciting atmosphere of a Chinese casino.

16-18 Hurst St, Birmingham B5 4BN 0121 622 3313

www.gentingcasinos.co.uk

GentinG CasinoeDGbaston

For one of the best nights out in Birmingham, visit Genting Casino Edgbaston. The venue offers all your favourite casino games including American Roulette, Blackjack, Three Card Poker, Slots and Electronic Roulette as well as a stylish bar area and restaurant.

New to casinos? This sophisticated venue caters for all, offering a range of packages including delicious food and drink. Meanwhile the more serious gamers amongst you can test their skills in exciting surroundings.

1 Norfolk Rd, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 3PS

0121 454 3725


Casino

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GentinG Casinostar City

Whether its slots, cards, live entertainment or the best in Casino gaming you’re looking for Genting Club Star City has it all in one great venue.

Situated just off the M6 with ample parking for all, Genting Club Star City is the complete night out. Pit your wits against like-minded players in our established poker room or simply enjoy a drink from the bar with friends. For that special occasion there’s Fahrenheit Restaurant serving great food at great prices.

Unit 5, Watson Rd, Birmingham B7 5SA 0121 327 8008


Grosvenor G CasinobroaD st.

Grosvenor G Casino Birmingham, through its community support and charity work, has opened up gaming to the general public offering charity casinos for fundraising events, hosting poker competitions within the casino for charitable organisations and its sponsoring of community projects.

The casino offers a wide range of packages for the inexperienced gambler and will arrange personal gaming training for customers on their first visit. With its strap line of ‘One amazing venue, One great night out’ Grosvenor G Casino remains Birmingham’s premier casino.

Fiveways Leisure Complex, Broad St, Birmingham B15 1AY

0121 631 3535

www.grosvenorcasinos.com

Casino

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City Centre bar

wethersPoon’sParaDise forum

Wetherspoon’s is one of the UK’s most popular and successful high street pub chains and is No.1 for real ales.

Experience a range of perfectly served drinks – unavailable in a typical pub! Wetherspoon’s food menu offers an exciting mix of traditional meals and local ‘specials’, along with popular and innovative international dishes.

The pub has an excellent choice of red, white and rose wines and champagnes at fantastic JD prices!

Unit 31, Paradise Place, Birmingham B3 3HJ 0121 214 8970

www.jdwetherspoon.co.uk

the soloman CutlerbroaD st.

Soloman Cutler is so called because it stands mainly on the site of Pearce and Cutler’s Glass Works. Cutler’s was founded in 1854 by Soloman Cutler. His son, Ephraim, expanded onto this Broad Street site and later amalgamated with his neighbour’s land.

The pub shows live Sky Sports and live BT Sport. It serves reasonably priced drinks and serves good quality food. Whether you want a relaxing lunch, a quick drink or snack after work this is the place to be. Pop into The Soloman Cutler / Lloyds No.1 at the weekend when you can unwind and enjoy all that Broad Street has to offer.

Regency Wharf, Broad St, Birmingham B1 2DS

0121 631 8930


all bar onenewhall st.

At All Bar One Newhall Street we believe every cocktail, every glass of wine, and every meal is an opportunity to discover something new. We keep our wine cellar well stocked with classic grapes and a handful of less well travelled varieties you’re sure to love. Our menu has unique pairings alongside familiar favourites, all designed to tweak the most adventurous palette. From a quick pre-work breakfast or a lazy brunch, a light lunch or a late catch-up over a bottle of Nespoli Sangiovese and sharing plates, we’re open all day Monday to Saturday to suit your occasion, so drop in any time.

43 Newhall St, Birmingham B3 3NY 0121 212 2551

www.allbarone.co.uk

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the fiGure of eiGhtbroaD st.

The Figure of Eight opened in 1996 and since then has established itself as one of the key venues on Broad Street, offering a warm, welcoming and safe atmosphere for both locals and visitors alike. As part of J D Wetherspoons it has an excellent reputation to uphold and always aims to rise above the bar set by its parent company and its competition.

The Figure of Eight offers excellent service and a fabulous range of products, as well as looking for the next big groovy product to offer to our customers.

236-239 Broad St, Birmingham B1 2HG 0121 633 0917


the DraGon innarCaDian Centre, southsiDe

The Dragon Inn is situated on Hurst Street, forming part of Birmingham’s Chinese Quarter and Arcadian Centre and is close to the Birmingham Hippodrome. The location is perfect if you are in town to catch a show in one of the local venues and would like to get a nice bite to eat.

The Dragon Inn offers a wide range of wines, spirits, ales and lagers and a great food menu – all to be consumed in a comfortable and relaxing environment. An outdoor area for the warmer days is also provided. Pop in and say hello!

Arcadian Centre, Hurst St, Birmingham B5 4TD

0121 622 7850


brasshousebroaD st.

The Brasshouse, an established welcoming venue, engages all sectors of the community including local businesses, conference delegates, residents, students and tourists, offering great food and drink in a safe, well-run, professional environment.

The Brasshouse’s social responsibility extends beyond its staff and customers as it works with the local community, Pubwatch and the BID as well as supporting Birmingham Children’s Hospital and offering a haven for community groups.

44 Broad St, Birmingham B1 2HP 0121 633 3383

www.brasshousebirmingham.co.uk

City Centre bar City Centre Pub

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City Centre Pub

the square PeGCorPoration st.

JDW’s The Square Peg has been situated on Corporation Street in Birmingham City Centre for the past 19 years and has become an established venue.

They offer a wide range of Cask Marque accredited ales and also support Locale ale which provides the customer with a locally produced ale. They also hold mini beer festivals every four weeks using local breweries with the opportunity to ‘Meet the Brewer’ at the launch.

The Square Peg is also proud of its position within the community working with the council in placing people with disabilities within the workplace.

115 Corporation St, Birmingham B4 6HP 0121 236 6530


villaGe innhurst st.

The Village Inn is one of the UK’s leading burlesque and cabaret show bars. Attracting the biggest names in fringe entertainment, with artistes appearing live several times a week. Undoubtedly one of Birmingham’s most popular gay bars, the Village Inn is an award winning destination of choice for LGBT visitors from all over the country. Renowned for it’s state of the art sound and light, offering a contemporary yet friendly and inviting space, The Village Inn is the matriarch of Birmingham’s unique and vibrant LGBT community.

152 Hurst St, Birmingham B5 6RY 0121 622 4742

www.villagebirmingham.co.uk

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hyatt reGenCybriDGe st.

As part of a multi-million pound refurbishment, the Hyatt Regency hotel has created a brand new pub – The Gentleman & Scholar – which opens onto Broad Street with a stunning heated terrace. Open to both guests and non-guests, the bar is styled on a traditional tavern with a contemporary twist.

It is a space that has its own identity, separate from the hotel, being the perfect place to enjoy a traditional cocktail with over 200 years of history or even Birmingham’s Classic Fish & Chips served with Tartar Sauce and Golden Malt Vinegar.

2 Bridge St, Birmingham B1 2JZ 0121 643 1234

www.birmingham.regency.hyatt.com

hotel Du vinChurCh st.

One of Birmingham’s most iconic drinking venues situated in the heart of the city, the ‘Bubble Lounge’ located inside Hotel du Vin on Church Street is decorated in the style of Venice’s Café Florin and is the perfect setting for pre-dinner or after-dinner gatherings or just somewhere to meet up with friends, family or colleagues day or night.

It has an extensive and eclectic wine list which is a feature of the Hotel du Vins up and down the country. The array of Champagnes available along with cocktails, rare spirits and liquors has continued to be the feature of the ‘Bubble Lounge’. Having recently had a facelift it has been carefully refurbished to be more practical and comfortable whilst still retaining its very special and unique feel and atmosphere.

25 Church St, Birmingham, B3 2NR 0844 736 4250

www.hotelduvin.com

the briar rosebennetts hill

The Briar Rose is situated in the heart of Birmingham City Centre and is a short walk from the Bull Ring shopping centre and all City Centre Railway Stations and amenities. The bar has a large family seating area at the rear with a menu served from 6am Monday to Friday and 7am Saturday and Sunday. The bar does not close until 1am every day of the week and provides a fantastic range of ales and are Cask Marque accredited.

The hotel has 40 beautiful bedrooms and a conference room – all available at extremely competitive prices.

We are proud to have won the 2013-14 Best Bar None Award for Best City Centre Hotel Bar.

25 Bennetts Hill, Birmingham B2 5RE 0121 634 8100


City Centre Pub hotel bar

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o2 aCaDemybristol st.

O2 Academy Birmingham comprises three production-complete, state of the art venues that can operate independently as well as simultaneously and is an integral part of the City’s live music scene.

The venue opened in September 2009 with a run of four capacity gigs from the Midlands’ finest artists: Editors, The Twang, The Streets and Ocean Colour Scene.

In 2014 so far, O2 Academy Birmingham has hosted some incredible live shows including performances by Example, Blondie, Lily Allen, Disclosure, OneRepublic, Embrace, Lauryn Hill, Katy B & Sam Smith.

16-18 Horsefair, Bristol St, Birmingham B1 1DB

0121 622 8250

www.o2academybirmingham.co.uk

niGhtinGale Clubkent street, southsiDe

The Nightingale Club is Birmingham’s gay superclub in the heart of Southside. Over three floors and with a capacity for over 2000 people. The Nightingale Club boasts four unique rooms catering for every genre and is the home of the legendary POUNDED Thursdays, Infusion and the BIG SATURDAY NIGHT OUT. Each of the floors has its own smoking terrace and the main arena has one of the biggest outdoor spaces, with bar in the whole of the city.

The Nightingale Club is an attitude-free zone providing a safe, sexy and fun space for anyone prepared to leave their attitude at the door and have serious fun!

Essex House, Kent St, Birmingham B5 6RD 0121 622 1718

www.nightingaleclub.co.uk

GateCrasherbroaD st.

Birmingham’s state of the art club, Gatecrasher Birmingham, is recognised as one of the most visited and renowned nightclubs in the world! Since its opening in 2008, over 4.5 million clubbers have attended the club and with a string of awards under its belt, including MixMag’s prestigious ‘Club of the Year’ and ‘Best of Broad Street’ 2008 and 2009, Gatecrasher continues to put Birmingham firmly on the map in terms of world class entertainment.

Described as the best clubs in the UK by Global superstar DJs, Gatecrasher houses one of the most technologically advanced laser and light shows in the world.

182 Broad St, Birmingham B15 1DA 0121 633 1520

www.gatecrasher.com

niGhtClub

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bar risabroaD st.

Located right at the heart of Birmingham, Risa is lavishly designed and known for hosting some of the more ground-breaking events. Risa has done its part in raising the expectations of what people have come to expect from Birmingham’s entertainment industry. We also host “Jongleurs”, the UK’s largest comedy club, where you can eat, drink, laugh and dance all night long.

Boasting 6 rooms and 8 bars, with a layout that directs your attention directly to the action on the dance floor; Risa has been designed to ensure there is an area to suit every mood or occasion.

Quayside Tower, 259-263 Broad St, Birmingham B1 2HF

0121 632 4936

www.risa-birmingham.co.uk

reflex arCaDian Centre, southsiDe

Located in The Arcadian Centre in Birmingham, Reflex prides itself on providing a fun, party night out in an unpretentious environment. The club takes you back to the 80’s with pure nostalgia, dress up weekends and staff party dances and is famous for selling giant cocktails and crazy memorabilia such as glitter hats and giant sunglasses.

Whether you are celebrating your hen party, stag party, leaving party, 18th birthday, 60th birthday or just Saturday night, Reflex Arcadian aims to create a safe party for all ages! Get into the groove at the house of fun and party like its 1989!

Arcadian Centre, 70 Hurst St, Birmingham B5 4TD

0845 123 4169

www.reflexbirminghamarcadian.co.uk

niGhtClub

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the CraneshelDon

The Crane offers unrivalled value with a menu and drinks range bursting with choice and flavour for you to enjoy.

Be sure to get to know The Crane inside out as we offer a range of facilities to suit our guests. Have fun and fill up on good times!

77 Cranes Park Rd, Birmingham B26 3SN 0121 742 3256

www.hungryhorse.co.uk

the CambriDGelonGbriDGe

After only just being opened a year The Cambridge has been a massive success, with much competition.

This new build has a crisp interior which integrates the local history yet still brings a vibrant modern feel to Longbridge. A very popular venue proven by the many returning faces, the staff are seen by many as friends due to the welcoming nature. The staff are happy to dress up for many occasions Christmas, Halloween and even beach party theme, offering a fun and entertaining family environment. Not only for entertainment but for charity events such as Macmillan coffee mornings. All of which proves we are a popular, exciting venue that is always offering something different.

6 College St, Rednal, Birmingham B31 2US 0121 475 0126


the beeChesPerry barr

The Beeches is a family-friendly pub located in Birmingham. Famous for big value pub food and a well-stocked bar with a great choice of drinks, beers and wine, The Hungry Horse – Beeches is a friendly local pub that goes out to impress everyone with its quality family food offer, sense of fun, and affordable prices.

The Beeches run charity events in aid of Macmillan Cancer Support every couple of Months raising £1500 in one week alone in October 2014.

116 Thornbridge Ave, Perry Barr, Birmingham B42 2AE

0121 358 6652


restaurant bar

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toby Carverysutton ColDfielD

Located within the idyllic setting of Sutton Park in Sutton Coldfield, the pub/restaurant offers a warm and friendly atmosphere and is the perfect place to sit and refuel after a long walk through the historic park.

Offering two food menus, one with light pub snacks and the other a delicious freshly roasted Carvery, there is a good selection to choose from that will please any hungry guest. To complement the great menus, there’s a healthy choice on the drinks menu, whether it’s a glass of red to complement the succulent Carvery beef or a fresh orange juice to quench your thirst, again there’s a choice for everyone!

Sutton Park, Sutton Coldfield B74 2YT 0121 354 2458

www.tobycarvery.co.uk

the loft lounGebromsGrove street, southsiDe

One of Birminghams hidden gems, The Loft Lounge, in the heart of Southside, offers a contemporary space in the centre of town delivering stylish surroundings, high quality, locally sourced produce and affordable dining to suit all tastes.

The Loft Lounge passion is fantastic, personalised customer service. Renowned locally for its unique house cocktails, specialist beers, top end spirits and champagnes. Providing a platform for up and coming DJ’s and supporting live, local music weekly.

143 Bromsgrove St, Digbeth, Birmingham B5 6RG

0121 622 2444

www.theloftlounge.co.uk

le truCarCaDian Centre, southsiDe

Le Truc is an independent French bistro tucked away in Birmingham’s vibrant Southside area. It was created with the simple idea of creating a relaxing space with friendly knowledgeable service with absolutely no pretence. The bistro serves everything from French classics to contemporary French food (including the Royal with Cheese).The venue oozes quirkiness; with the vintage posters and in vogue graffiti on the wall. A DJ booth entirely made of 80’s cassette tapes, mix match furniture & chandeliers finishes of the hip interior. Wherever you go in Le Truc you cannot escape the sense of fun, even the aptly named “liquid education” drinks list will have you giggling as you sup yet another delicious creation.

Arcadian Centre, Ladywell Walk, Birmingham B5 4ST

0121 622 7050

www.letruc.co.uk

restaurant bar

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the fiGhtinG CoCksmoseley

Beloved of Moseley’s colourful community, The Fighting Cocks has become somewhat of an icon in this trend-setting Birmingham suburb. Original 1800 period features are set against a contemporary design, providing a perfectly offbeat backdrop to the friendly banter drifting over from the bar.

Linger over a pub lunch or relax with your favourite pint (there are a fair few to sample), soaking up the warm, bohemian vibe of the local residents.

1 Saint Mary’s Row, Moseley, Birmingham B13 8HW

0121 449 0811

www.thefightingcocksmoseley.co.uk

the Crownfour oaks, sutton ColDfielD

Visit The Crown in Sutton Coldfield for authentic British cooking and real ales in a genuine local pub warmed by a cosy fire.

The venue’s pub-food menu features classic meals made with award-winning ingredients. Included are seasonal specials and buffet food for all occasions. You’ll also find a hand-picked range of perfectly conditioned cask ales on tap, and a selection of fine wines from around the world. A true Sutton Coldfield local, it’s a great place to meet up with friends and swap stories. Take part in the weekly quiz, or just go to eat and relax in the stylish pub surroundings.

Walsall Rd, Four Oaks, Sutton Coldfield B74 4RA

0121 323 2715

www.emberinns.co.uk

the bottle of saCksutton ColDfielD

The Bottle of Sack is situated in the heart of Sutton Coldfield and is a popular venue for shoppers, workers and locals. Offering a wide selection of ales, coffees, food and cocktails there is something for everyone at this venue. The pub has a large beer garden, currently undergoing a huge transformation. This will be completed by Christmas and will include a large non-smoking area.

Recently scoring the top 5 hygiene rating from Environmental Health, this pub is always striving for perfection. The pub was shortlisted last year in the Best Bar None awards and won awards in 2010 and 2012.

2 Birmingham Rd, Sutton Coldfield B72 1QG

0121 362 8870


suburban bar

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the mare Poolmere Green, sutton ColDfielD

Since opening in November 2011, The Mare Pool has quickly gone on to form close ties with the local community in Mere Green, Sutton Coldfield and established a reputation as a stylish and welcoming venue for every occasion.

Whether you’re after award winning local ales, fine wines, great food for the whole family or just a quick coffee to keep you going, The Mare Pool offers a warm and friendly environment for everyone to enjoy.

The Mare Pool certainly isn’t your average J D Wetherspoons at first glance, and this venue goes the extra mile with its service too.

297 Lichfield Rd, Mere Green, Sutton Coldfield B74 2UG

0121 323 1070


suburban bar

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CovereD waGonmoseley

What makes The Covered Wagon such a favourite amongst pubs in Moseley?

Maybe it’s the satisfying sizzle of our famous skillets, or our unbeatable value for money on food. Or it could be the infectious buzz of our friendly bar, where you’ll find all your favourite drinks at fantastic prices.

With the whole sizzling package, it’s no wonder the people of Springfield, Wake Green and Kings Heath can’t get enough of this venue. Go and see for yourself!

298 Yardley Wood Rd, Moseley, Birmingham B13 9JW

0121 449 9167

www.sizzlingpubs.co.uk

the CamPkinGs norton

The Camp is an old traditional pub. It has open fires and original beams. Serves real ales and the more premium lagers. We are situated in Camp Lane in Kings Norton at the rear of Kings Norton Park. Catch all the latest sport here or whether you just want a quiet drink with your pals or come along at weekends and sing till your hearts content at karaoke. We also have live bands on a regular basis.

It was built in the 1930’s and was originally called The Station due to its close proximity to rail networks.

It is the kind of pub that welcomes you even if you come in alone.

1 Camp Lane, Kings Norton, Birmingham B38 8SP

0121 458 3621

the balDwin hall Green

After being closed for years, The Baldwin re-opened in March 2012 thanks to a £1.2 million refurbishment. The Baldwin is a family friendly local and has great food and drink offers throughout the week, not to mention the fantastic entertainment like its AMAZING pub quiz, Poker night and live band nights!

There’s something for everyone at The Baldwin. You can relax in the beer garden overlooking the bowling green, there’s also a children’s play park, an over 18’s sports bar and of course, The Baldwin’s fun and friendly mascot ‘Super Horse’ – all of which are accompanied by ultra-friendly staff, great food and drinks and lively atmosphere.

Baldwins Lane, Hall Green, Birmingham B28 0PZ

0121 733 7944


suburban Pub

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Great stone inn northfielD

The Great Stone Inn prides itself on having a warm and welcoming team who care about each and every customer.

The pub offers a great choice of food, drinks and cask ales which can be enjoyed in a friendly and safe environment. Being at the very heart of the local community, The Great Stone Inn is very much a ‘locals’ pub and all are most welcome.

The pub provides regular entertainment and has many charity events to raise funds for local charities.

158 Church Rd, Northfield, Birmingham B31 2LU

0121 478 1254

www.thegreatstoneinnorthfield.co.uk

the Goose at the ovtselly oak

The Goose is a friendly and welcoming pub, in the heart of Selly Oak, catering for all requirements. With fantastic offers on food and drink, all day every day!

561 Bristol Rd, Selly Oak, Birmingham B29 6AF

0121 472 3186

www.gooseovt.co.uk

the elizabeth of yorkmoseley

JDW’s The Elizabeth of York has established itself in the heart of a proud community in Moseley. Ever popular with its loyal, local customers and those who are drawn to the thriving area, The Elizabeth of York welcomes a diverse clientele with an equally diverse food and beverage menu. With it well recognised and regular ale and cider festivals catering for an increasingly discerning clientele, it is able to provide a wide choice, delivered in a friendly manner and environment. The pub is also committed to supporting charity, organising regular events, contributing to the strong community spirit of the area.

12a St. Mary’s Row, Moseley, Birmingham B13 8JG

0121 442 5250


suburban Pub

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the hillyfielDsharborne

Hillyfields offers a plush (but easy-going) atmosphere, with a vibrant lunchtime trade – an easy venue to chill, meet, eat and drink, with SKY Sports, BT Sports and ESPN. By night, we become one of the best pubs in the area. We have something for everyone across the week.

156 Quinton Rd, Harborne, Birmingham B17 0RP

0121 428 3318

www.thehillyfieldsharborne.co.uk

the hare & hounDserDinGton

The Hare and Hounds is a safe family pub and being part of the local community is very important to us. The friendly staff go out to impress everyone with its quality family food offer, sense of fun, and affordable prices. We offer an unrivalled value with a menu and drinks range bursting with choice and flavour for you to enjoy.

We host live music and entertainment every weekend with a wide range of events from children’s frozen parties, charity nights, 80’s Disco’s and quiz nights and much more throughout the year. We want our customers to have fun and fill up on good times!

We are all very proud of the reputation that we have built in the last year.

Marsh Hill, Erdington, Birmingham B23 7HG 0121 382 0392


harborne storesharborne

Harborne Stores is a cosy bar situated in the middle of Harborne. During the week, it’s very much a locals’ pub, with two rooms where everyone knows everyone! You will find quiz nights on a Monday and Thursday at 8pm and on Friday and Saturday the pub has a DJ from 8pm to midnight, attracting those from 18 to 80!

109 High St, Harborne, Birmingham B17 9NP

0121 428 3121

www.harbornestores-birmingham.co.uk

suburban Pub

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the Proverbialharborne

The Proverbial’s gorgeous and spacious beer garden is the perfect place to relax and unwind on those long summer afternoons. Take your friends and catch up with a drink from one of our extensive Wine or Cocktail menus as you watch the world go by.

The Proverbial has a DJ every Thursday, Friday and Saturday.

186-196 High St, Harborne, Birmingham B17 9PP

0121 426 4256

www.proverbialharborne.co.uk

man on the moonkinGs norton

Here at The Man on the Moon you’ll find everything you’d expect from a traditional local pub in West Heath – but with a bit of added sizzle.

Just a stone’s throw from Redhill Road, The Crest and West Heath, we’re the perfect place to watch the footy with friends or enjoy a bit of banter over your favourite beers. We serve up a fantastic range of drinks with prices to match, together with our famous sizzling skillets or flame-grilled burgers if you fancy a bite with your pint.

Redditch Rd, Kings Norton, Birmingham B38 8LR

0121 486 3631


the junCtionharborne

The Junction’s familiar Victorian exterior is one of the grandest in Birmingham and stands proud at the end of Harborne High Street. Inside you’ll find cosy, colourful surroundings, friendly welcoming staff and a real open fire.

The Junction’s home-cooked, seasonal pub food is served from its open kitchen, with regularly changing specials.

Choose from six real ales, including local and seasonal guests, over 20 world beers, lagers and ciders on tap, 28 wines, a wide range of popular and hand-made soft drinks or try the mulled wine, hot rum and spiced cider as the dark nights draw in.

212 High St, Harborne, Birmingham B17 9PT

0121 428 2635

www.thejunctionharborne.co.uk

suburban Pub

22

sutton Park hotelsutton ColDfielD

At the Sutton Park Hotel you’ll find everything you’d expect from a traditional local pub in Sutton Coldfield – but with a bit of added sizzle.

Just a stone’s throw from New Oscott, Wylde Green and Erdington, the Sutton Park Hotel is the perfect place to watch the footy with friends or enjoy a bit of banter over your favourite beers. The pub serves up a fantastic range of drinks with prices to match, together with its famous sizzling skillets or flame-grilled burgers if you fancy a bite with your pint.

1 Boldmere Rd, Sutton Coldfield B73 5UY 0121 362 4951


sPreaD eaGleaCoCks Green

This Wetherspoon pub takes its name from one of the oldest pubs in Warwickshire, which stood close by, until it was demolished in 1929.

The gift refers to ‘an area on the Warwick Road near the old Spread Eagle and Dolphin Inns’. The Spread Eagle, said to have been one of the oldest pubs in Warwickshire, stood nearby – at the corner of Victoria Road. It was pulled down in 1929 when the road was widened. The Green, far from being an age-old local landmark, was created in the early 1930s.

1146a Warwick Rd, Acocks Green, Birmingham B27 6BL

0121 708 0194


the reD lionkinGs heath

The Old Red Lion is a historical building in the heart of Kings Heath which boasts excellence in all areas. With its appealing beer gardens and relaxing atmosphere this is the perfect place to enjoy food and drink – including a wide range of wines and cask ales.

The enjoyable and friendly team serve alongside Shivaun to guarantee excellent service. Quiz nights, country and western and Salsa dancing, as well as a renowned folk club, are among its weekly events and its function room is available for hire. The Red Lion also supports local charity, ‘Danny Ryan’, with proceeds going towards Birmingham Children’s Hospital Cancer Ward.

Vicarage Rd, Kings Heath, Birmingham B14 7LY

0121 444 2803

www.emberinns.co.uk

suburban Pub

23

wylDe Green sutton ColDfielD

A friendly destination pub serving food all day. Cask Marque accredited ales are served and there is a bowling green at the side of the pub. There is also a children’s playzone at the rear of the building with live bands on the 2nd and 4th Saturday of every month.

Birmingham Rd, Wylde Green, Sutton Coldfield B72 1DH

0121 373 1340


the towers innGreat barr

What makes The Towers Inn such a favourite amongst pubs in Great Barr?

Maybe it’s the satisfying sizzle of its famous skillets, or their unbeatable value for money on food. Or it could be the infectious buzz of the friendly bar, where you’ll find all your favourite drinks at fantastic prices.

With the whole sizzling package, it’s no wonder the people of Perry Barr, Kingstanding and Handsworth can’t get enough of this venue.

636 Walsall Rd, Great Barr, Birmingham B42 1EY

0121 358 4627


suburban Pub

24

joe’s bareDGbaston

By day, Joe’s bar (situated in the University of Birmingham campus) is the place for students to catch up with friends with a drink and bite to eat; by night it transforms into the definitive venue playing host to some of the University of Birmingham Guild of Students’ most popular events.

For the past 5 years, Joe’s Bar has actively taken part in the Best Bar None scheme and won an award. The scheme is used as a benchmark for quality customer service, to ensure that current procedures are continually improved and the needs of its students are met, whilst operating the bar through the promotion of safe drinking.

Edgbaston Park Rd, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TU

0121 251 2300

www.guildofstudents.com

Gosta Greenaston

The Gosta Green has become a focal point, meeting place, and entertainment hub for the wider student community in the area. After winning Best City Centre Bar last year, we have continued to improve ourselves, implementing many policies and procedures to look after our number one, the students of Birmingham. Alongside this we have become the most popular lunchtime venue in the area, feeding the local office workers and quenching their thirst. We have also hosted a number of multicultural, charitable and fun focussed events here with great success and strive to continue to do so.

Holt St, Aston, Birmingham B7 4BG 0121 359 0044

www.screampubs.co.uk

the bristol Pearselly oak

Selly Oak’s finest. Good food, good drink, good atmosphere, all the best sport and a function room available for hire or where you can watch the best in local spoken word, comedy, music and theatre.

676 Bristol Rd, Selly Oak, Birmingham B29 6BJ

0121 414 9980

www.screampubs.co.uk

university / stuDent bar

25

the s oakselly oak

The S Oak is a bar close to the University of Birmingham’s main entrance. We show all the live sporting events, have great value food on offer and a friendly vibrant team.

Enjoy the atmosphere, the drinks and the music.

563-569 Bristol Rd, Selly Oak, Birmingham B29 6AF

0121 471 4011

www.gkmeetandeat.co.uk

saCks of Potatoes aston

Sacks of Potatoes is a traditional pub, with leaded light windows, wooden floors and is complemented by pictures which show the history of Birmingham. Based on the University campus, the Sacks offers a warm welcome to all who frequent it. Whether it be an aspiring student or a local resident/business person in the area, the pub has something to offer everyone.

From watching a game of football/rugby; good value food and a range of drinks which include 6 cask ales, Sacks offers a great place to eat, drink and enjoy.

10 Gosta Green, Aston, Birmingham B4 7ER 0121 503 5811

www.sacksofpotatoes.co.uk

university / stuDent bar

26

aCCreDiteD venues 2014 – 2015

Casinos

Broadway Casino – Broadway Plaza, Birmingham

Genting Casino (Chinatown) – Hurst Street, Southside

Genting Casino (Edgbaston) – Norfolk Road, Edgbaston

Genting Club (Star City) – Watson Road, Star City

Grosvenor G Casino – Broad Street, Birmingham

City Centre bars

All Bar One Newhall Street – Newhall Street, Birmingham

The Soloman Cutler – Broad Street, Birmingham

Wetherspoons Paradise Place – Paradise Forum, Birmingham

City Centre Pubs

The Brasshouse – Broad Street, Birmingham

The Dragon Inn – Hurst Street, Southside

Figure of Eight – Broad Street, Birmingham

The Square Peg – Corporation Street, Birmingham

Village Inn – Hurst Street, Southside

hotel bars

The Briar Rose – Bennetts Hill, Birmingham

Hotel du Vin (Bubble Lounge) – Church Street, Birmingham

Hyatt Regency (The Gentleman & Scholar Pub) – Bridge Street, Birmingham

Accredited venues are those which meet ALL of the essential criteria. Some examples are included below, where licensed premises must provide evidence of:

– regular security reviews;

– clear and effective policies on drunkenness;

– clear and effective policy on the prevention of drug use and supply within the premises;

– a written accident recording system;

– a clear anti-theft strategy;

– an effective glass collection policy;

– an adequate fire detection warning system;

– a robust proof-of-age policy; and

– regular staff training

If you think your Birmingham-based venue meets the criteria and you’d like to submit an expression of interest, visit www.birminghambestbarnone.co.uk

The following is a list of Birmingham Best Bar None accredited venues 2014-2015:

PurPle flaG

Birmingham has successfully retained its Purple Flag status.

Birmingham’s nightlife is recognised as having ‘Purple Flag status’ which means Birmingham City Centre is seen as a place to go for a better night out.

Achieving purple flag status means that as a city, we are doing extremely well in managing our night time economy and providing safe, vibrant and diverse entertainment areas, catering for a mixture of different people.

For more information on Purple Flag, visit www.purpleflag.org.uk

27

aCCreDiteD venues 2014 – 2015

niGhtClubs

Bar Risa – Broad Street, Birmingham

Gatecrasher – Broad Street, Birmingham

The Nightingale Club – Kent Street, Southside

O2 Academy – Bristol Street, Birmingham

Reflex (Arcadian) – Hurst Street, Southside

restaurant bars

The Beeches – Thornbridge Avenue, Great Barr

The Cambridge – College Street, Longbridge

The Crane – Crane Park Road, Sheldon

Le Truc – Ladywell Walk, Southside

The Loft Lounge – Bromsgrove Street, Southside

Pure Bar & Kitchen – Waterloo Street, Birmingham

Toby Carvery – Sutton Park, Sutton Coldfield

suburban bars

The Bottle of Sack – Birmingham Road, Sutton Coldfield

The Crown – Walsall Road, Sutton Coldfield

The Fighting Cocks – St. Mary’s Row, Moseley

The Mare Pool – Lichfield Road, Sutton Coldfield

suburban Pubs

The Baldwin Hungry Horse – Baldwins Lane, Hall Green

The Camp – Camp Lane, Kings Norton

Covered Wagon – Yardley Wood Road, Moseley

The Elizabeth of York – St. Mary’s Row, Moseley

The Goose at the OVT – Bristol Road, Selly Oak

Goose & Granite – High Street, Kings Heath

Great Stone Inn – Church Road, Northfield

Harborne Stores – High Street, Harborne

The Hare & Hounds – Marsh Hill, Erdington

The Hillyfields – Quinton Road, Harborne

The Junction – High Street, Harborne

Man on the Moon – Redditch Road, Kings Norton

The Proverbial – High Street, Harborne

The Red Lion – Vicarage Road, Kings Heath

Spread Eagle – Warwick Road, Acocks Green

Sutton Park Hotel – Boldmere Road, Sutton Coldfield

The Towers Inn – Walsall Road, Great Barr

Wylde Green Hungry Horse – Birmingham Road, Sutton Coldfield

university / stuDent bars

The Bristol Pear – Bristol Road, Selly Oak

Gosta Green – Holt Street, Aston

Guild of Students (Joe’s Bar) – University of Birmingham, Edgbaston

Sacks of Potatoes – Gosta Green, Aston

The S Oak – Bristol Road, Selly Oak

28

Partners

birminGham Community safety PartnershiP

The Birmingham Community Safety Partnership is a joint partnership between West Midlands Police, Birmingham City Council, West Midlands Fire Service and many different agencies that work together to tackle crime and anti-social behaviour that affect communities. The Partnership listens to residents’ concerns and does its best to respond to them.

www.birminghamcsp.co.uk

birminGham City CounCil

Birmingham City Council is the body responsible for the governance of the City of Birmingham in England, which has been a metropolitan district since 1974. It is the most populated local authority in the United Kingdom (excluding counties), following a reorganisation of boundaries in June 2004, with 120 Birmingham City councillors representing over one million people, in 40 wards.

www.birmingham.gov.uk

west miDlanDs PoliCe

West Midlands Police is the second largest police force in the country, covering an area of 348 square miles and serving a population of almost 2.6 million. The region sits at the very heart of the country and covers the three major centres of Birmingham, Coventry and Wolverhampton. It also includes the busy and thriving districts of Sandwell, Walsall, Solihull and Dudley.

www.west-midlands.police.uk

29

Partners

west miDlanDs fire serviCe

West Midlands Fire Service (WMFS) is the statutory fire and rescue service responsible for fire protection, prevention, intervention and emergency rescue in the county of the West Midlands in England. The West Midlands Fire Service functions under the control of the “West Midlands Fire and Rescue Authority”, which is a joint-authority, made up of councillors from the seven local authorities in the West Midlands.

www.wmfs.net

free raDio

Free Radio (formerly BRMB) is a local radio station based in Birmingham, UK, owned and operated by Orion Media. The station broadcasts on 96.4 FM and DAB Digital Radio in Birmingham and surrounding areas and online. Free Radio broadcasts a mix of chart, contemporary and classic hits alongside live football commentary, talk programming and news bulletins.

For more information, visit www.freeradio.co.uk

www.freeradio.co.uk

30

sPonsors

CarlsberG

Carlsberg UK is one of the country’s largest beer and beverage companies. We operate a landmark brewery in Northampton, 12 Cask Marque accredited distribution depots across the UK and employ around 1,700 people.

We produce many of the leading beer brands in the UK including Carlsberg, San Miguel, Tetley’s, Tuborg and Somersby Cider. We also offer premium world beers including Staropramen and Mahou. But we are more than just a beer company. Through our Crown Cellars division, we source a variety of specialist wines and spirits from across the globe.

Our customers include national pub companies and independent free houses. You will also find our products at major sports venues including Northampton Saints’ Franklin’s Gardens, a host of Premier League grounds including the Emirates, Villa Park and Anfield, plus music arenas like the Brixton Academy and O2 Apollo Manchester.

Importantly, we are engaged with society, which is our way of saying that we place our responsibilities to the community, industry and environment at the core of everything we do. Visit www.engagedwithsociety.co.uk for more.

www.carlsberg.co.uk

ASTON MANOR CIDER

From Orchard to Glass, Aston Manor Cider is the UK’s largest independent cider maker. We are 100% family owned with an ethos to deliver only the finest products. Aston Manor Cider has a production and packaging facility in Birmingham, orchards in Worcestershire and Herefordshire and a further production and packaging facility at Tiverton in Devon. Our product range spans from mainstream Kingstone Press to premium ciders such as Malvern Oak and Malvern Gold through to organic cider produced for Duchy Originals. For more information visit www.astonmanor.co.uk

www.astonmanor.co.uk

31

suPPorters

kinGs heath nursery – floral DeCoratinG unit

The Kings Heath Nursery – Floral Decorating Unit provides floral arrangements for the Council House, Lord Mayor’s Parlour and all of their civic functions, special visits and VIP dinners and providing the entire city centre floral enhancement for which it has won Gold for the Britain in Bloom Large City Category 2012. The unit supplies anniversary tribute flowers for the city’s cemeteries and crematoria including flowers for all occasions delivered throughout the Birmingham area to the public, all of which are of a very high standard and exceptionally good value.

For more information call Andrew Jennings on 0121 464 0422.

toye & Co.

Toye & Co is a family-run manufacturer based in Birmingham’s historic Jewellery Quarter, making exceptional products – state insignia, medals, cufflinks and bespoke awards. The creativity of its designers inspires its craftsmen – experts in weaving, gold and silversmithing, enamelling and embroidery.

Imaginative design, traditional skills and computerised technology combine to create a superlative range of items to promote an organisation’s identity. Toye & Co are also proud to supply the Birmingham Best Bar None Awards since 2008.

www.toye.com

Grosvenor Casinos

Part of Rank Gaming, Grosvenor Casinos is Britain’s leading casino entertainment brand operating 37 casinos which in total entertain well over one million customers per year. Grosvenor Casino’s aims are to provide exciting live and electronic gaming in safe, fun and friendly environments delivered by professional well-trained staff.

Grosvenor Casino goes beyond ‘business as usual’ in an effort to make a broad contribution to life within local communities. Grosvenor Casinos is proud of its GamCare accreditation which it achieved in 2007 and of its support of Marie Curie Cancer Care for which it has already raised over £300,000 through the generosity of its customers and staff.

www.grosvenorcasinos.com

Aston Manor Cider is the UK’s largest independent cider maker and is a business solely dedicated to growing the cider category. We produce the broadest range of ciders to delight consumers whilst creating innovative opportunities for retailers.

We are planting 1,000 acres of new orchards in Herefordshire, adding to the orchards we have in Worcestershire. This ensures we have the quality of fruit we will need to support our growth and to produce a wide range of ciders suitable for every drinking occasion.

For further information about stocking our products please contact us on 0121 328 4336.

From Orchard to Glass, a cider for every occasion

Aston Manor Cider, 173 Thimble Mill Lane, Birmingham, West Midlands B7 5HS

34492 Birmingham Prog Ad 230x230.indd 1 21/11/2014 16:23

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