Pub · Birmingham
Right beside the canal at Gas Street Basin, this is a big, plant-draped pub where the hanging foliage and slightly bonkers decor do a lot of the entertaining for you — handy when you're waiting on food with a restless four-year-old. It's roomy enough to get a pram through, with high chairs, a kids' menu and outdoor seating by the water, plus free parking nearby. Food arrives hot and quickly: the chicken skewers with seasoned fries, halloumi with pomegranate couscous and the forager's feast vegan burger all get proper praise, and the plant pot pudding is a small event in itself. Weekday evenings are calm; weekends bring live acoustic music, which stays gentle enough to talk over. Worth knowing it's pricey for mains, portions of small plates cool fast, and booking is sensible.
A little something creative for your next meal out. Filled with colouring, simple drawing prompts for cute animals, origami and conversation starters designed to bring more play, laughter and connection to the table. 3 free printable packs for toddlers, preschoolers and primary-aged children.
Budget Birmingham city-centre hotel with canal views, a casual restaurant and on-site parking — a handy base for family trips.
Pub in Birmingham with outdoor seating — 4.0★ (3,537 Google reviews).
A canalside city-centre pub with picnic tables, a kids' menu and hearty, generous food — quiet on weekday afternoons, lively at weekends.