Rykneld Turnpike, Clay Cross

The exterior is so modest that a carload of enthusiastic drinkers missed it on the first pass. Inside, though, it's a treat. The seating is extensive, comfortable and full of that chunky wooden furniture you see in lots of places now. The bar is slightly small but full of beer pumps, serving several types of good ale, thoughtfully arranged in sample jars in front of the pumps. We were lucky to arrive on a Tuesday when selected beers are on offer for £2; these were tasty- the "Spring Green" went down particularly well. The lady serving on was friendly and the whole place had an atmosphere you wouldn't guess at from how it looks outside.