The Duke William in Stourbridge

Ah, The Duke William – it's one of those pubs that really captures the heart of what makes a great British local, isn't it? From what I've gathered, it's CAMRA's pub of the year and the original home of Craddock's Brewery, so you're in for a proper treat with their eight taps of real ale, along with a solid range of lagers, ciders, and IPAs. The atmosphere is just spot on – imagine sinking into a chair by a warm wood fire or heading out to the heated beer garden for a laugh with mates. They've got all sorts going on too, like quizzes every couple of weeks, music nights, and even showings of the big sports matches, which adds a fun buzz without it feeling too crowded. The food's a highlight as well, with those delicious pies available on weekends; pair that with a pint and you're set. But, to be fair, it's not all perfect – I've heard a tale or two about the staff being a bit off on occasion, like one instance where they were outright rude, which is a real shame and could sour an otherwise lovely evening. Still, with such high praise overall, I'd say it's worth popping in if you're nearby, especially if you're keen on a good ale and a chatty crowd – just go in with an open mind and enjoy the best bits!