Review on The Holly Bush Inn
Reckoned to be the 'second oldest licensed pub in the country', the white-painted Holly Bush Inn puts on a good show with its deep-thatched roof, wooden plank ceiling, hefty beams and quaint curios. Dating from the fourteenth century, it has been immaculately preserved, with lots of cosy areas and old-fashioned touches such as a salt cupboard set into the huge inglenook.
The kitchen makes admirable use of local produce, including cheeses from Fowlers of Earlswood (the oldest cheese-making family in England) for a hearty menu that steers clear of gastro-posturing in favour of honest, carefully crafted dishes. Floppy Staffordshire oatcakes are stuffed with black pudding, Cannock Chase venison is casseroled, free-range pork chops are given a mustard glaze, and there's steak and kidney pud to warm the cockles.
The pub keeps an excellent stock of real ales, and there are plenty of quaffable wines on the short list - including a special 'mini bottle' selection for drivers. In summer, an eighteenth-century style wood oven is called into service for pizzas in the garden.
The Holly Bush Inn is also featured in: Good Food Guide, AA Guide
Rate this RestaurantCuisine
Gastro pub
Chef
Paul Hillman
Restaurant Opening Times
Lunch: 12.00 through until
Dinner: 9.30pm (9.00pm Sun)
Accepted credit cards
Visa, Master Card
