Digbeth, Birmingham. Formerly The Anchor Inn, this is one of the oldest public houses in the Digbeth area of Birmingham, dating back to 1797. The current building was constructed in 1901 for Ansells' Brewery to the design of Birmingham architects James and Lister Lea, who also designed The White Swan located just down the road. The terracotta on the facade outside is believed to have come from the Hathren Station Brick and Terracotta Company in Loughborough. The pub won the CAMRA Regional Pub of the Year award in 1996/1997, 1998/1999, 2003/2004, and 2007/2008.

Currently there a two rooms surrounding the quasi horseshoe shaped bar, separated by a wood and stained glass snug wall. Back in the day this separated the men from the women. But at one time there were even more walls to divide the space into separate areas for the lower class and off sales from the street. And of course there is a small room on the other side of the bar with a hatch, baffles, and bell pushes for the rich. They all had separate doors with etched glass names so you knew where you belonged! There is also a small outdoor seating area with its own drinking booth. A really fascinating pub. And one other interesting thing. I tasted two local beers. North Star Hopped Porter from Silhill Brewery, a very interested twist on a traditional porter. And The Anchor High Seas Seasonal Ale, which was a nice light ale which due to a NDA I was unable to know where it was brewed! Thanks to owner/bartender Jules for all the great information and history.