Pub-goers could be forgiven for failing to notice The Starting Gate on Birches Barn Road in Wolverhampton.
The micro pub sits away from the main town drag on the site of the old HSBC bank and could easily be missed if you didn’t know it was there- but rest assured that this hidden gem is an absolute must visit for all cask ale lovers.
The family run pub was launched three years ago by brothers Mark and Steve Wright and boasts some of the best kept local ales in the area from Sarah Hughes, to Three Tuns and Wye Valley. Visiting ales also include Yorkshire brewed Theakstons, Elland and Thornbridge.
“We probably sell around 30 different ales over a month in total,” explains Mark “our focus is very much around providing our customers with great choice and quality. We use the Real Ale finder app to update our customers about the current selection.”
For those looking for something a little different, The Starting Gate also offer Bavarian lagers, Cornish Rattler Ciders and a carefully chosen selection of gins, wines and spirits.
The brothers have worked hard to create the perfect ambiance for the pub – tables are nestled into comfy areas, perfect for a catch-up drink with friends and family. “When we were looking at setting up a micro pub, we really wanted to create a very chilled out and relaxed vibe,” Mark tells us, “for that reason we don’t have any televisions or fruit machines and we run a strict over 18s policy.” Following the various restrictions posed by last years Covid outbreak, the pair have also turned what was waste land at the back of the premises, into a beautiful garden area for warmer days.
Whilst pub meals aren’t served, Mark’s partner Mandy has introduced a range of hot and cold bar snacks including cobs, hot pastries and her award-winning home-cooked Scotch Eggs, which are always in high demand.
Discover The Starting Gate for yourself today- we can guarantee that you won’t be disappointed!
Open times:
Tuesday and Wednesday 4-10:30pm
Thursday and Friday- 3-11pm
Saturdays 2-11pm
Sundays 2-7pm