retiredmartin

August 2025. Birmingham. Halesowen.

If July was all about Darlington, August is full-on Birmingham.

Two (2) x two (2) day trips to Brum, staying next door to the O2 where I saw Lizzy McAlpine on one of the great nights of my life last October.

Four days to get to the heart of the city of Ozzy, Desi pubs and cult worship of Ian Clarkson.

But first, the Great British Beer Festival (GBBF).

Actually, before that, let’s use the free bus pass the £6 GBBF ticket gives me to visit Halesowen, one of those awkward West Mids towns without a railway station.

The Swift card gives you a week’s free travel, but I only use it the once, to whizz along Hayley Road on the dedicated bus lane to Roberto’s.

A flying visit to Halesowen, just the church opposite the pub, and then a flying pint of Mallinsons, who seem to be back in favour.

A plain suburban micro, you’d say,

but comfy and classy, with the crispest cask of the week (NBSS 4) served by Jacob, who’s great.

My scant notes say “Unsupported Protocol”, which in 2025 could be a beer name or my medical condition.

Whatever did happen to Halton Turner ?

Actually, what happened to Digbeth ?

We’ll find out later.