GET OUT MORE……………………PUB CRAWL

THE STIRRER'S WOLVO PUB CRAWL

24-02-2007

Finding a clutch of pubs in Wolverhampton that aren't designed exclusively for students and/or chavs ain't easy. But The Stirrer's been checking out a few quality hostelries for you to enjoy.

The Posada on Lichfield Street (pretty much a straight line walk from the railway station) is always a good place to start; the old Holt, Plant and Deakin pumps have gone but there's still a decent collection of real ale (sadly, none of it local) and a friendly atmosphere. Big screens which temporarily threatened to spoil the atmosphere have now been taken down, and this fine Victorian tiled establishment with a mixed clientele is well worth a pint.

From here, continue along Lichfield Street until you come to the main Queens Square; turn left into Victoria Street and head for the Goths n rockers hangout The Giffard Arms. Although wusses might be put off by all the tattoos and mascara, this is actually a great place, full of character(s) and a giant ornate wooden throne.

This seat is always empty, as if the landlord were just waiting for Lucifer to come and claim his usual pint pot from behind the bar. Nick Cave and a fully-fanged Christopher Lee could cheerfully hold a conversation with Lemmy here. My mates Jackie and Nicky Smith once filmed a section of their film “Chains, Whips and Rubber Tips” in this delciously dark establishment. Go on, you know you want to.

From, here retrace your steps as if heading back towards the train station, but dip right into Princess Street for the Tap And Spile - a real spit and sawdust throwback, but again, very friendly and a decent beer selection. Was a bit disconcerted by the giant screen which dominated our section of this rather small and cosy traditional pub, but as the sound was turned down, the chat dominated. Another winner.

We saved the best until last though - everyone's favourite Wolvo pub The Great Western; head to the main railway station, and to the left, you'll see a bright walkway taking you to the old low level station, currently being redeveloped as flats.

At the end of the walkway, light suddenly turns to darkness as you turn right to negotiate a pitch black path - stick with it, because at the end paradise awaits.

The Great Western is simply one of the West Midlands' finest pubs. Filled with railway memorabilia, stocking a range of great beers (including local favourite Holdens) it's got a great crowd and never lets you down.

A great way to end a good crawl.

Been to any of these pubs? How do you rate them? And other crawls you'd like to recommend? Leave a comment in the miscellaneous section of our messageboard.