The Strafford Arms

You'll find this Craft Union pub right in the heart of the city centre, where Bull Ring meets the main shopping drag. It's the sort of place where you pop in for one and somehow end up staying for three, watching whatever match is on the telly while nursing a pint that won't break the bank. The Strafford does exactly what it says on the tin – no fancy food menu or craft cocktails, just solid pub fundamentals done properly. The beer's cold, the atmosphere's relaxed, and there's always something on one of the multiple screens. It attracts a proper mix of office workers, shoppers taking a break, and regulars who've been propping up the bar since Tony Blair was in Number 10. Not trying to be anything other than a decent local boozer.