IRONBRIDGE.

The Golden Ball Inn is perfectly positioned to enjoy historic Ironbridge and the beautiful Shropshire countryside. It is also ideally situated for local industries. It is half way down the Madeley Road into Ironbridge Gorge, turn left into Jockey Bank and follow the signs to the large car park. This is Ironbridge's oldest hostelry combining genuine traditional charm and character with the most modern comforts and amenities. This early 18th century free house commands excellent views over the Ironbridge Gorge. It's attractive whitewashed exterior and traditional character have been preserved throughout the pub.  The pub has a good selection of well kept traditional ales, including Taylor's Landlord and three guest ales. The Golden Ball also serves a selection of European beers. The pub has appeared in the CAMRA good beer guide. The menu has some interesting dishes on it and all food is prepared using fresh local and market produce on the premises. Menus change regularly, though some dishes are standards throughout. Food is available in the informal bar areas Monday to Friday 12-2.30 and 6-9pm; Saturday/Sunday 12-8.30pm. Food is also available in the restaurant Monday-Saturday 12-2.30 and 6-9pm; Sunday 12-8.30pm (traditional Sunday roast is £7.50). There is also a dining room with smoking and non-smoking areas. Vegetarians tastes are catered for also. There is accommodation here and bedrooms have en-suite bathrooms, TV and tea/coffee making facilities. They are spacious and have large beds to match. Prices are £58 or £65 depending on choice of suite.  Every Thursday the Ironbridge Rock and Blues Club meets in the pub. Children welcome lunchtimes and early evenings, though there is no children's room or certificate. Children are only allowed in the beer garden, courtyard and restaurant. There is a beer garden for summer and a picturesque courtyard. Dogs welcome.

This ex-freehouse is now part of the holden's group. It still serves guest ales though along with the Holden's range. The pub is full of olde worlde charm as you would expect from it being situated in this birthplace of the industrial revolution. There is seating outside overlooking the new bridge across the Severn. Food is served here 12-6 every day from the newly refurbished kitchen. Choice is traditional, but there are a couple of choices for vegetarians. A large car park means that if you are supping ales, you do not have to fight in the scrum for somewhere to park in the summer - pity those who don't like real ale. They even welcome bikers, but that has something to do with the present landlord, so get it while you can as landlords inevitably move. If you like quizzes try the one here on Wednesdays. If you cant face the drive back, there is en-suite accommodation here. Ironbridge gets very busy in the summer, if you don't know why, you probably wouldn't come here anyway, but then you'd be missing out on some great visitor attractions and the All Nations which is now a brewpub again.