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A Brilliant Day Discovering Stourbridge’s Historic Pubs and Great Beer
Today saw me travelling around Stourbridge, calling into a brilliant mix of pubs and bars with Neil and local CAMRA friends. Each place had its own quiet story, from centuries-old coaching inns to former banks and High Street shops given new life. I enjoyed everything from crisp golden ales and smooth milds to hazy pales and even a dandelion and burdock brew. What really stayed with me though was how welcoming everywhere felt — warm rooms, easy conversation and proper pubs doing what they’ve always done best: giving people a comfortable place to meet, chat and slow down for a while.
Stourbridge is a Black Country town with a long and proud history, best known for its world-famous glassmaking. From the 1600s onwards, skilled craftsmen produced fine crystal that travelled across Britain and far beyond. The River Stour helped power industry, and canals and railways later connected the town to growing markets. Alongside glass, iron and brickmaking also shaped everyday life here. Over time the heavy industry faded, but the town kept its character. Today, you can still see hints of its past in old buildings, pubs and workshops, giving Stourbridge a strong sense of heritage and quiet pride.
Red House Boutique
Saturday took me around Stourbridge, Cradley Heath and Rowley Regis areas visiting 22 venues. Along with Neil’s Real Ale & Pub Page, Tony from Stourbridge & Halesowen CAMRA, Luna from Dudley and South Staffordshire CAMRA and Julian from Wolverhampton CAMRA. Our first call of the day was to Red House Boutique. The Red House pub in Stourbridge has been part of local life for many years. It was once known as The Redhouse & Glass, a name that reflected the town’s strong links to industry and everyday working life. Over time, the pub changed owners and later spent a period as part of the Hogshead chain before becoming independent again. Through all these changes, it remained a familiar place for people to meet and unwind. Its history is a quiet one, shaped by regulars, routines, and conversations.
Inside feels easy and settled. The wooden floors and solid tables look well used, as if they’ve seen years of quiet conversations. Seating is spread out in small, comfortable pockets, with chairs pulled in close and sofas tucked against the walls. Exposed brick, painted wood and soft lighting give the room a gentle warmth. Nothing feels showy or rushed. It’s the kind of place where you come in, find a seat without thinking too much about it, and feel comfortable staying for a while.
On the bar a choice of 3 cask ales alongside a range of keg options. I went for Town Crier by Hobsons Brewery, a 4.5% golden ale that’s crisp, lightly fruity and easy to drink.
The Hop Vault
My next visit in Stourbridge was to The Hop Vault. The Hop Vault in Stourbridge sits in a building with a practical past. It was originally built to house a bank vault, used to store money and valuables safely in the town centre. After banking use ended, the building was reused for other everyday purposes, including a period as a hi-fi and music shop called Music Matters. Like many Stourbridge buildings, it adapted as the town changed around it. In the early 2020s, the site found a new role, continuing its long tradition of serving local people.
Inside feels small, calm, and quietly reassuring. You step in and the space feels settled and cared for, with simple tables, plain chairs, and everything kept close and easy. The room is shaped by the building’s past rather than pushed into something new, with thick walls and a sense that it was built to last. Soft, steady lighting keeps things gentle, encouraging you to slow down and stay a while. Tucked away is the original bank vault itself, its heavy steel door still in place, now opened up into an intimate seating nook. It adds a feeling of solidity and history, reused with care rather than turned into a feature for show. The whole space feels warm without effort, like a room that’s been thoughtfully lived in again rather than redesigned.
A great selection on the bar of 17 keg lines, 3 cask ales, a range of ciders and fridges and shelves packed with bottles and cans. I went for Sauce Code by Arbor Ales, a 5% fruity, sour beer with a bright zing of cranberry and citrusy zest.
Royal Exchange
Walking to the edge of town brought me to Royal Exchange. The Royal Exchange in Stourbridge has been part of the town for well over a century. It was already open by the mid-1800s, serving people who lived and worked nearby. Over the years it passed through different hands, with long-running landlords helping it stay rooted in everyday life. After the Second World War, it became linked with the local Bathams brewery, which later took full ownership in 1960. Through changing times, the Royal Exchange has quietly remained a constant. Its history is made up of ordinary days, familiar faces, and a steady place that has grown alongside Stourbridge itself.
Inside feels settled and quietly welcoming. Deep red leather seating curves around small tables, worn just enough to show it’s been well loved. Rooms are broken into cosy corners rather than one open space, making it easy to sit and stay awhile. Framed prints, soft lighting and muted colours add to the sense of familiarity. Outside, the courtyard opens out into a generous, practical space, with sturdy wooden tables and room to spread out. Nothing is polished or showy — just comfortable, steady, and easy to relax into.
On the bar 2 cask ales – Bitter and Mild, along with a number of keg choices. I went for Mild by Bathams Brewery, a smooth, dark mild with gentle roasted malt sweetness and a soft, easy finish.
The Queens Head
Walking a minute or so along the road brought me onto The Queens Head owned by Black Country Ales. This has a deeper past than it first appears. In the late 1800s it was linked to Edward Rutland Brewery, which operated behind the pub, brewing and bottling beer on site. Edward Rutland later ran the business with his son, supplying pubs across the area. Brewing ended in the early 1930s when the brewery buildings were closed and demolished, but the pub carried on. While Stourbridge has changed over time, the Queen’s Head remains — a familiar place for a pint, conversation, and a quiet link to the town’s working past.
Inside feels comfortable and warming. There are deep leather benches, solid wooden tables, and patterned wallpaper that gives the rooms a classic pub look without feeling heavy. Light comes in through the bay windows, making it an easy place to sit and linger. The layout is open but still cosy, with quieter corners and space to gather. Out back, a spacious beer garden opens things up even more, with plenty of seating, room to spread out, and a relaxed feel that works just as well on a sunny afternoon as a mild evening.
A great line up of 10 cask ales to select from, a cider and a range of keg options. Had a bit of an incident with a dog 🐕 in here 😒. I went for Keeper of Secrets by Fownd Brewing Company, a pale ale with soft citrus and orange notes that’s light and easy to drink.
The Crafty Jar
Back into the town centre brought me to The Crafty Jar. The Crafty Jar in Stourbridge opened in November 2023 in a building with a simple working past. Before becoming a bar, the unit on Lower High Street was used as a decorators’ shop, supplying paint and materials to local people for many years. Like many High Street spaces, it later became empty as shopping habits changed. Rather than being left unused, the building was given a new role as an independent local business. Its short history reflects a familiar Stourbridge story: older premises being reused and quietly woven back into everyday town life as needs and times change.
Inside feels small in a good way — easy to walk into and easy to settle into. The room stretches out gently from the bar, with tables and chairs spaced so you never feel on top of anyone else. Nothing feels overdone; it’s a mix of comfortable seating, worn wood, and small details that make the space feel lived in. The bar sits quietly to one side, with copper taps and bottles lining the shelves behind it. Soft amber lights glow against the grey walls, keeping everything warm even during the day. Big windows let in plenty of light and a glimpse of the High Street, but once you’re inside, the pace slows and the room feels calm and unhurried.
A lovely warm welcome from Steve when I arrived. On the bar a selection of 4 cask ales, alongside a great keg line up to choose from. I went for Maverick by Green Duck Beer Co., a pale session ale with bright orange zest and juicy fruit notes that’s light and easy to enjoy.
Cofton at the Bridge
An extra visit while in Stourbridge to Cofton at the Bridge. Cofton at the Bridge occupies a building believed to date back to the mid-14th century, with a vaulted cellar often cited as medieval. Over the centuries it served a range of purposes, including use as a coaching inn during the 17th and 18th centuries for travellers crossing the nearby river. Following careful restoration, the site opened as Cofton at the Bridge on 6 February 2026, marking its first use as a dedicated bar. The new venue combines contemporary food and drink with preserved historic features, giving renewed life to one of Stourbridge’s oldest surviving structures.
feels relaxed and welcoming. Exposed brick and soft painted walls give the room a lived-in, comfortable feel. Warm lighting hangs low from simple cables, casting a gentle glow over wooden tables and benches. There’s a mix of snug seating and open space, so it works just as well for a quiet coffee as an easy evening drink. Small details — a neon sign, chalkboard specials, natural textures — keep it informal and unpretentious. People sit close, talk easily, and linger.
A range of keg beers are available from Attic Brew Co. on the bar, as well as offering food, pizzas and other drinks. I went for Centro by Attic Brew Co., a hazy pale ale with zesty citrus and a smooth, juicy finish.
The Duke William
A few doors down to The Duke William. The Duke William takes its name from William the Conqueror, a popular choice for pubs across England. In Stourbridge, it grew into a familiar local pub, known for bringing people together over drinks and conversation. While the building itself dates from much later than Norman times, the name keeps a link to England’s medieval past. Over the years, the Duke William has simply done what good pubs do best: serve the community and provide a welcoming place to gather.
Inside it feels easy and comfortable. Deep red walls, dark wood, and worn floors give it a lived-in feel. There are open fires and log burners set into old brick hearths, with snug benches, small tables, and mixed chairs that invite you to sit and stay a while. Soft lighting, framed pictures, chalkboards, and little shelves add quiet character without trying too hard. Outside, the enclosed courtyard has wooden benches, picnic tables, and barrels, partly covered and simple — a pleasant spot for a relaxed drink when the weather’s kind.
On the bar a fantastic line up of 8 cask ales, including 5 from Craddock’s Brewery as well as a number of keg lines. I went for Troll by Craddock’s Brewery, a smooth and easy-drinking pale ale with gentle hop aroma and a clean finish.
Stourbridge Social
Dropped into another extra, this being Stourbridge Social. Stourbridge Social opened in July 2024 in the River Rooms courtyard, an area that’s been part of Stourbridge life for generations. The surrounding buildings date back to the town’s industrial past, when glassmaking, trade and local businesses shaped the area. As the River Rooms were brought back into use, Stourbridge Social became part of that next step, giving new life to old spaces.
Inside feels relaxed and welcoming, with plenty of space to settle in. There’s a mix of long tables and cosy wooden booths tucked under curved arches, perfect for small groups or a quieter chat. Soft lighting, hanging plants and warm wood give the room an easygoing feel, while murals and old photos nod to the town’s past. The smell of street food drifts through the space, adding to the comfort and tempting you to stay longer. At one end, a small stage hosts live music and events without taking over.
A single cask ales on the bar alongside a variety of keg options to choose from. I went for Quencher by Theakston, a pale ale with floral and fruity hop character that’s refreshing and easy to drink.
The Waggon & Horses
Another walk to The Waggon & Horses. The Waggon & Horses in Stourbridge has been part of the town for a long time. It was already established by the early 1900s, and records from 1921 show it was run by the local brewers Smith & Williams of Brierley Hill. Over the years, it changed hands as Stourbridge itself changed around it. Through all of this, it stayed a familiar name in everyday town life. Today, the Waggon & Horses is independently owned, carrying on quietly as a place shaped by routine, regulars, and the simple rhythm of the town.
Inside everything feels easy and familiar. The rooms flow naturally, with well-used tables, comfortable chairs, and soft lighting that keeps things warm without trying too hard. Nothing feels polished or put on; it’s a place that’s settled into itself over time. You get the sense that people come here to sit, talk, and stay a while. Outside, the enclosed yard is much the same. Covered and quietly inviting, with benches, small tables, and gentle lighting, it feels like an extension of the pub rather than something separate. Altogether, it’s a place that feels ready for whoever walks in next.
A selection of 5 cask ales available on the bar, with a separate keg bar and a further cider bar. I went for Melt Me Down by Pentrich Brewing Co., a smooth and hoppy pale ale with bright citrus and a soft, easy finish.
Weavers of Stourbridge
My final call in Stourbridge before heading on the train to Stourbridge Junction was to Weavers of Stourbridge. Weavers of Stourbridge occupies a building with a familiar pub history in Stourbridge. It first traded as the Vauxhall Tavern, and for a time also used the name Rock Station, reflecting changing styles and uses. It later became The Dog House, which remained open until 2025, when it closed its doors. After a short pause, the building reopened later in 2025 as Weavers, run independently as part of a small local group.
Inside feels easy and welcoming. The room is filled with small tables, wooden chairs, and soft rugs that make it feel comfortable rather than formal. Everything is close enough to feel friendly, but never crowded. The walls are a calm, muted colour, with posters and a chalkboard explaining how beer is made, adding character without trying too hard. The lighting is low and warm, giving the space a relaxed feel throughout the day.
On the bar a line up of 6 cask ales, along with a selection of keg options. I went for Blonde by Ludlow Brewing Company, a light blonde ale that’s crisp and easy to drink.
The Seven Stars
I jumped on the train from Stourbridge Town to Stourbridge Junction. Here I visited The Seven Stars. The Seven Stars in Stourbridge has been part of the town’s story for well over a century. It was built in 1907 for the Mitchells & Butlers brewery, close to Stourbridge Junction station, serving people passing through and those living nearby. Over the years it remained a steady presence rather than a changing one. The building is now Grade II listed, recognising its place in local history. In 2019, the pub was bought by Black Country Ales, who continue to run it today, keeping it firmly rooted in everyday town life.
Inside feels easy and familiar. Dark wood, tiled details and stained glass give the rooms a settled, well-kept feel, with spaces that lead naturally towards the bar. The bar itself sits comfortably in the room, solid and traditional, part of the place rather than something added later. Lighting is soft and warm, picking up the colour of the wood and glass without ever feeling bright or harsh. There’s a mix of snug seating and small tables, so it’s easy to find a spot and stay awhile. Outside, two beer gardens offer a change of pace — simple, relaxed spaces for warmer days — but inside is where the pub really comes into its own. It’s the sort of place where you slow down without noticing, settle in, and feel quietly at home.
A huge selection on the bar of 12 cask ales, alongside ciders and keg options to explore. I went for Chain Ale by Black Country Ales, a classic amber ale that’s smooth, balanced and easy to drink.
Green Duck Beer Co
A short walk away was Green Duck Beer Co. Green Duck Brewery began in 2012, started by a small group of local people with a shared idea. In 2013, it moved into a permanent base on Rufford Road in Stourbridge, allowing the brewery to settle and grow at a comfortable pace. In 2019, the team opened the Badelynge Bar taproom on site, giving the public a closer link to the brewery itself. A year later, in 2020, a canning line was added.
Inside feels welcoming and easy to settle into. Long shared tables fill the room, with enough space to move around comfortably, even when it’s busy. The high ceiling is held up by painted metal columns and steelwork, giving the space an open, practical feel. Soft lighting and strings of bunting add warmth without making it feel fussy. The bar runs along one side, relaxed and unshowy, with the brewery visible just beyond the glass. Nothing feels overworked or polished for effect. It’s the sort of place where people come in for one drink and stay for another.
A huge selection on the bar with 7 cask lines and 11 keg lines, with more choice in cans. I went for Duck Dastardly by Green Duck Beer Co, a dandelion & burdock beer with sweet, herbal notes and a refreshing finish.
Micropub Adventures 