The Duke Inn sits almost hidden on a side street in Sutton Coldfield, away from the traffic and crowds of Gracechurch and the parade. At over 140 years old, it is one of the only traditional, non chain pubs left in the town. New landlords Kelly and Mike are bringing fresh energy to the pub, and a new coat of paint or two that is sorely needed to keep it up to modern standards. This includes switching out the previous cider (Strongbow) to Symonds, and rotating about five cask ales (cask marque awarded). Currently, a number of these include ales from Greene King. You can debate Greene King's beers all day, but it's none the less refreshing to walk into a traditional pub and not be immediately faced with a requisite Carling tap handle.
The Duke Inn is split between a bar up front and a lounge in the back. The bar has two tellies, a darts board, fireplace, and walls covered in historical photos of the area. The lounge is cosier, and can be hired out for gatherings. They also feature the only pub garden in the center of Sutton Coldfield, currently a grassy yard with benches that will be further developed by the new owners in the spring. The Duke Inn is rolling out activities to get more people in the door, including their quiz night, held on Tuesdays at 8PM with a £2 per person entry fee. You'll find a lot of regulars that frequent the pub, but the atmosphere is still welcoming and homely. One of the few downsides is that the inn has no kitchen, which means no hot food! There are the standard bag of crisps and scratchings if needed, however.
In keeping with an independent pub, the pint prices are generally more expensive than a Wetherspoons but cheaper than what you'll find on Broad Street. A pint of Abbot Ale and a pint of Cider will run you seven quid. If beer is not to your liking, there are other drink options behind the bar available. I am very much looking forward to seeing what 2016 has in store for the Duke Inn. The local community seems excited about the new changes, so hopefully their support will mean that the pub stays a relevant piece of Sutton history. read more