Jolly Crispin 25 Clarence Street, Upper Gornal, Dudley DY3 1UL

"What a fab find. Proper Black Country boozer with a fine choice of ales. We had a lovely welcome and the bar is dog friendly. Will definitely be going back. Have just been back on a midweek evening, quiz night so was busy, ales were bostin'"

"New owners do not understand what made it a good pub before. They have taken a old traditional ‘Black Country’ pub with original features that attracted civilised drinkers and tried to modernise it. They have installed large TV screens so they can broadcast sky sports, put out modern decking, put in a new PVC doors and seats, all of which are not aligned to the traditional character of the building. There was a reason why they never sold larger before and that’s because civilised people drink ale and it used to keep the larger drinkers away. Before, it was common to see a couple of dogs inside and dog biscuits at the bar, but it doesn’t seem the right atmosphere to bring your dog anymore. The new owners have even managed to squeeze a games machine behind the doors to the lounge at the cost of the door only opening half way. The result of these poor decisions have created a poor, rowdy atmosphere, attracting the wrong crowd of people. It used to be a nice place where everyone knew everyone and everyone used to be happy. The new owners didn’t seem to have much experience pulling pints - having beer splashed back on them and taking ages to serve. We miss the community connection we once had, such as the monthly newsletter that was on each table, or the events which Rob put on, such as the brass band at Christmas. I have also heard there have been a couple of incidents where glasses were thrown across the room. This weekend was meant to be a cider festival, but they couldn’t even staff that this evening and had to shut that down. I’m advised the ladies toilets were an absolute disgrace. It really is a shame, it used to be a nice safe atmosphere, where I’d recommend go for a drink. I recommend go somewhere else for a good pint including, the Old Swan, Netherton; The Bull’s Head, Gornal; The Brit, Gornal."

"Me and my fiancé visited for their winter beer festival with our dog. The landlady was very friendly and knowledgeable about the beers and I was even offered chocolate sprinkles with my beer which really was a game changer and improved the bitterness of some beers"

"A great, honest 'Black Country' pub. I loved every minute I spent in there. Maybe it's just me but this type of traditional pub to me is what a real "Boozer" should be. Real Ale & Real people. Thank you Jolly Crispin for a lovely evening."