Tap & Spile Birmingham

You'll find yourself down on Gas Street Basin where the canal runs through the city centre, and Tap & Spile is exactly the sort of place that makes you forget you're in the middle of Birmingham. It's a real drinker's pub—the kind where people actually care about what's on tap and the staff can talk you through the differences between ales like they mean it. The vibe is relaxed without being pretentious, and whether you're after a pint after work or settling in for an afternoon, there's room for everyone. The location matters too; it's brilliant for people-watching whilst nursing a proper drink, and Gas Street's got that slightly villagey feel despite being slap bang in the city.