The New Inn - Birmingham - Pub Reviews

The New Inn is a classic Victorian corner pub at 74 Vivian Road in Harborne, Birmingham – a building dating back to 1845. In May 2024 it was taken over by local Joule’s Brewery, and it now proudly serves as part of Joule’s family of taphouses. The pub’s exterior features traditional brickwork and a large corner sign, hinting at its old-fashioned charm. Inside, the layout is long and narrow, with two distinct bar areas: a main bar on one side of the front entrance and a separate room on the left that doubles as a dining area (often with its own second bar). The décor combines cosy pub fittings (dark wood panelling, cushioned bench seating and an open fireplace) with some quirky, vintage touches – design elements like patterned wallpaper and knick-knacks give it a friendly, lived-in feel. In fact, Joule’s notes that patrons will find a “warm, welcoming pub full of character” here. The garden behind the pub is a real highlight – tucked away from the street, it’s a spacious, sun-soaked beer garden (often described as one of Harborne’s “best-kept secrets”) with lots of seating and lawns for lazy afternoons.

The New Inn has earned a generally positive reputation: on TripAdvisor it holds about a 3.9/5 overall rating, reflecting a solid approval among diners and drinkers. Opening hours are typical of a suburban pub: roughly 4pm–11pm Monday–Thursday, 3pm–midnight on Fridays, noon–midnight Saturdays, and noon–10pm on Sundays. In practice, the place is busiest from early evening onwards (and late afternoons at weekends), with locals dropping in after work and regulars gathering on Friday/Saturday nights. The clientele is a mix – families and retirees early on, students and young professionals later, and even the odd Sunday-afternoon parent with children (the pub’s official policy is that children are welcome until 8pm). In short, The New Inn is a traditional Harborne pub that has been given a slight modern polish by its new owners – still very cosy and conversational in vibe, but with some updated comforts (like free Wi-Fi and modern sound equipment for the occasional gig).

Facilities & Entertainment

The New Inn’s interior is fairly open-plan for a Victorian pub. Just inside the door on the right sits a long polished wooden counter, and there’s ample space between tables for conversations and board games. The room feels roomy yet cosy – one reviewer noted “large wooden bar” and “ample seating” with a traditional, homey feel. The décor is vintage-inspired: wood panelling on the walls, cushioned benches, and retro-style floor tiles. In cooler months a real log fire (burning in a rustic fireplace) adds warmth and atmosphere. According to Joule’s Brewery, patrons will find a “relaxed, traditional bar” inside with plenty of space to perch for a quiet pint or gather with friends. The pub also preserves some classic parlour rooms and snug areas – essentially small corners where a few tables are tucked away under original Victorian features – which can feel quite private and peaceful.

Crucially for the atmosphere, the New Inn downplays loud entertainment. There are no fruit machines or video games, and the management makes a point of having no TVs blaring football. Instead, the vibe is geared toward conversation and relaxation. (One of the owners even told local historians: “we have no fruit machines, no TVs and are still a place where people come for a chat.”) You might hear quiet music or see someone playing board games at a table, but you won’t find big screens dominating the walls. If anything, light background music or an acoustic act might fill the air on event nights. This setting makes the bar feel like a friendly living room rather than a sports arena – perfect for after-work drinks or Sunday catch-ups.

Stepping outside the pub, you’ll discover its large beer garden – arguably the star of the show. The outdoor patio has chunky wooden tables and benches, and beyond that a raised lawn area with picnic tables, shrubs and even a patch of grass for lounging. In summer this garden is delightfully secluded and sunlit, offering an “oasis” atmosphere compared to the bustling main road. Blankets are provided on cooler evenings and even heat lamps appear on chilly nights, ensuring year-round use. It’s not a sprawling public park, but relative to most pub yards it feels very spacious (one reviewer described it as a “spacious, sun-soaked haven”). There's no dedicated car park on site (street parking is mainly resident bays), but that just means customers arrive by foot, bike or local buses (the latter stop a short walk away on John Bright Street).

Other amenities: The New Inn keeps a modest food-serving area in the left-hand room, and also advertises a small function/meeting space (ideal for private parties or quiz nights). High stools and tables are available, plus some regular tables and cushioned benches. A well-stocked upstairs function room (accessed by stairs) can host larger gatherings. Dogs are usually welcome at tables (it’s a typically dog-friendly pub), and high-chairs are provided for families. In terms of technology, you’ll find free Wi-Fi and a few charging points around the bar, but power sockets are not overly abundant.

For entertainment, The New Inn relies on low-key events rather than constant activity. There’s live music on weekends – typically a band or solo musician on Saturday nights. The CAMRA branch notes “Live Music – Saturdays from 9pm” on their listing, and locals confirm the same. In practice this means you might hear folk, jazz or acoustic covers playing in the evening. The pub also hosts a pub quiz every few weeks, and occasional themed nights (one review teased “Tuesday Wings night” as an upcoming special). On big sporting occasions (e.g. World Cup matches, Six Nations rugby), management will often put on a TV or projector – but these are exceptions rather than the norm. Generally speaking, the focus here is drinks, food and chat. The staff do run promotions (such as beer stamp cards or meal deals), and community events like charity fundraisers or family fun days pop up from time to time.

In summary, The New Inn offers a comfortable, no-frills space with the key pub facilities – a wood-panelled bar, picnic-friendly garden, fireplaces, outdoor seating – and a friendly, conversational atmosphere. It avoids the flashy trappings of a modern bar (no arcade games, no pumping music), which reinforces its appeal as a traditional community pub.

Food on Offer

The food at The New Inn is solid pub fare, but done with a bit of flair. The kitchen prides itself on using quality ingredients for classic British dishes. In fact, the pub advertises “traditional pub and British dishes at their finest, from steaks and grills to fish” with “award-winning ingredients” – and mains on the menu start from only about £9. The regular menu includes staples like burgers (beef or veggie), beer-battered fish & chips, battered sausage, and grills (steaks or mixed grill). One reviewer was impressed by a mustard-cashew crusted lamb and a parma-ham-wrapped cod loin, both of which were said to be “exceptional” and full of flavour. Another compliment came for classic beef lasagne and burgers which were described as “lovely” – indicating the pub doesn’t shy away from the staples. Vegetarian options are usually on offer too (for example a plant-based burger or the occasional nut roast), and the pub actively calls out a veggie cauliflower-cheese tart or nut roast on their Sunday menu. Small plates and starters (like panko prawns or jalapeño poppers) rotate as well.

One thing the New Inn does especially well is the Sunday roast. Multiple sources praise it. Recent menus advertise “proper roasts” served until they sell out, and diners regularly note that the roasts are both generous and well-executed. A large portion of roast beef, chicken or even a nut roast (for vegetarians) with all the trimmings is typically priced around £9.95–£10. As one review put it: “At £9.95 large plate of beef, chicken or cauliflower cheese (veg) with unlimited gravy and well-cooked veg” was very good. In practice these roasts do tend to sell out quickly, suggesting their popularity – so it’s wise to arrive early or book ahead if you want a Sunday dinner. On a good Sunday you’ll see a packed pub enjoying plates piled high with roast spuds, carrots, peas, Yorkshire pudding and gravy.

Apart from roasts, The New Inn’s menu is always changing with specials. There might be a chef’s dish of the week (e.g. a curry or a seafood platter), weekly specials like a pie night or steak night, and desserts such as sticky toffee pudding or cheesecake. The quality is generally described as above average for a pub kitchen. As one local blogger raved, “The New Inn is reserved for gastronomical greatness”, not just ordinary pub grub. Another wrote that the portions are large and made from “only the finest ingredients at more than reasonable prices”. On the flip side, a few diners who caught the pub at a quiet time found their food a little underwhelming – one 2021 complaint mentioned scampi looking meagre for £9.95 – but these seem to be the exception under older management. Today the new owners emphasise “simple pub food” done well, and in practice most patrons appreciate both the flavour and value of the menu.

Vegetarian and vegan options are available too; aside from the nut roast or cauliflower tart on Sunday, expect things like bean burgers, veggie curry, or a salad. A small kids’ menu is offered (bangers & mash, chicken nuggets or fish & chips for under-10s). Desserts (typically £5–£6) include ice cream sundaes and British classics (Eton mess, sticky toffee pudding). The overall sense is that the New Inn’s kitchen delivers hearty, comforting meals – done with care and generous portions. It isn’t a gourmet restaurant by any means, but it definitely serves better-than-average pub food.

Beers on Tap

The New Inn’s heart is its beer, and it’s clearly a traditional alehouse at its core. Since the Joule’s takeover, the selection is anchored by Joule’s own brews. In fact, as CAMRA notes, four handpumps dispense mostly Joule’s cask ales. Typically three pumps serve stable Joule’s lines and a fourth is a rotating seasonal guest (often a rare or experimental Joule’s beer). For example, you’ll almost always find Joule’s Pure Blonde (a 3.8% session pale ale), and usually Slumbering Monk (4.5% bitter), and perhaps Joule’s IPA or another pale ale. One tap will switch out each week/month for whatever’s in season – it might be a special IPA, a new stout, or even an imported guest beer by arrangement. The casks are generally well-kept; reviewers consistently note that the real ales taste fresh and properly conditioned. For instance, one visitor enthused that if you want “a decent pint… in a good atmosphere”, this is the place. Another mentioned that local bitter (like Banks’s) and Joule’s own beers go down easily with the food.

Apart from cask ale, the bar has a modest selection of other drinks: several bottled or keg lagers, a couple of ciders (sometimes including local Scrumpy or Aspall on tap), and standard pubs brands of larger. Notably, one regular is thrilled that Aspall Blush cider is even on draft here – it’s a rare treat. The wine list is basic (house red/white/rose by the glass or bottle) and there’s a range of spirits for mixed drinks. If you want fancy cocktails you might be disappointed (they don’t advertise mixology), but they do pour the classics (gin & tonic, rum & coke, etc) well. During music nights, the cocktails and wine options appear to be more prominent.

Crucially, the bartenders know their beers. Staff will happily talk you through what’s on, recommend a cider vs ale, and even pour half-and-half samples if you’re unsure. This attentive service adds to the impression of quality – one reviewer noted that “service from Conor [the barman] was great” and you can trust the pour to be correct and the lines clean. In short, beer lovers will be content: the ales are the focus, kept in good nick, and there’s always a couple of Joule’s specials to try.

Price Range & Value

By Birmingham suburban standards, The New Inn sits in the mid-price (moderate) range. Patrons tend to describe it as good value for what it offers. For context, the pub is rated “££” on TripAdvisor, meaning a typical bill is neither dirt-cheap nor premium. A pint of beer or cider runs around £4.50–£5.00. Spirits, wine by the glass, and soft drinks are priced similarly to most city pubs (around £4–£6 per drink). On the food side, most main courses range from about £9 to £14. For example, a regular burger and chips or fish & chips will come in around £11–£12, while a steak or chef’s special might hit the mid-teens. The Sunday roast gets special mention: the large plates with meat, potatoes, veggies and gravy are going for about £9.95, which is considered quite a bargain given the generous portion. (By comparison, a fancy Sunday lunch in central Birmingham might cost £15–£20, so under £10 with free gravy feels like a steal.) DesignMyNight even highlights that “main meals [start] from as little as £9”, underscoring the budget-friendly end of the menu.

Customers often comment that “you get what you pay for” here – in a good sense. The ingredients are fresh and the dishes filling, so the mid-range prices seem fair. Portion sizes are generally generous. One group noted that the £9.95 roast had unlimited gravy and plenty of veg, making it a filling meal. Other diners say things like “meals are really filling and prices fair for the quality”. Desserts and sides are similarly priced in the modest range (£3–£5 for sides, £5–£6 for desserts). There’s no trickery: drinks are ringed up at bar prices, and food is paid as ordered (no hidden service charges).

In terms of value, many visitors feel The New Inn punches above its weight. Compared to chain pubs or city-centre competitors, you’re getting a more personal, hearty meal here for about the same price. The only quibble some mention is that at weekend peak times, service can slow down slightly – but that’s not a price issue so much as a popularity issue. Overall though, the consensus is positive: “fresh ingredients at reasonable prices” and “a hearty, satisfying meal + quality ale for mid-range prices.” One enthusiastic guest even said after a large meal and drinks, “we will definitely be visiting again soon!” – strong evidence of perceived value.

Customer Service

The New Inn’s staff earn consistently high marks from customers. Under the current management, friendliness and attentiveness are the norm rather than the exception. Groups frequently remark on the warm welcome: in one TripAdvisor review, a party of 16 said they were greeted by name, and the team was “super helpful” in organising menus in advance. Another night-time review praised the barmaids for being “smiley” and attentive, even writing a hand-written thank-you note on the bill to add a personal touch. In fact, the September 2022 review noted that “the amazing chef got our order cooked to perfection” and the staff kept on top of everything – summing up “nothing was too much bother”. Such tales appear often in guest comments: servers introducing themselves by name, filling water pitchers unprompted, and generally taking care of customers with a smile.

Staff knowledge is also a highlight. Bartenders and waiters can explain the beer list or the day’s specials, recommend what to try, and handle dietary queries (gluten-free or vegetarian requests) confidently. One diner specifically mentioned how a barmaid named Shannon helped accommodate a guest’s anxiety by finding a quieter table out of the way – a thoughtful touch that eased their evening. The kitchen is reported to respond politely to customisations as well. Even in busy periods, staff remain polite and relatively quick: another guest noted the pace was “second to none” despite a busy Friday night, and that plates were cleared promptly so new orders could come in.

Of course, like any pub, there are occasional hiccups – a slow round or a misplaced order – especially when the place is packed. A few reviewers (particularly from the pre-Joule’s era) complained of waits or mix-ups, but management has since addressed many of these by hiring more staff and training rigorously. In recent reviews from 2022–2025, praise for the team far outweighs any criticism. The general impression is that The New Inn’s crew is friendly, down-to-earth and genuinely glad to see you. Many comments conclude with lines like “thanks for a great afternoon/evening” or “we will definitely be back soon”. In summary, service at The New Inn leans very positive: helpful bartenders, welcoming hosts, and a few thoughtful gestures make customers feel at home.

Events & Special Nights

While The New Inn isn’t a club or theatre, it still buzzes with occasional special events that give it extra character. The biggest draw is its live music nights. On Saturday evenings the pub often hosts local bands or solo performers who play covers, folk tunes or light jazz. Patrons will see a small stage area set up by the bar and speakers tuned accordingly. These gigs tend to be informal – people chat through them rather than a hush concert hall vibe – but they add a pleasant soundtrack to the night. One regular couple noted they often spend an hour relaxing in the beer garden and then move inside to catch the live music. Indeed, Joule’s lists “regular music/entertainment” as a feature, and reviews confirm that many enjoy the convivial atmosphere the gigs bring.

Other regular events include weekly pub quizzes and sports promotions. The pub advertises a quiz night (usually midweek) on a noticeboard and occasionally on social media. Teams of locals gather for general-knowledge trivia, and winners get a prize (often drink vouchers). Likewise, there is sometimes a “Wings & Beer” night on Tuesdays – a special deal on chicken wings with pints – which one blog review noted is poised to be a crowd-pleaser. (This isn’t currently on the official website, but appears on flyers and has been tried in the past.) These nights ensure there’s something extra on for those who want more than just drinking – a game, a chat, a theme.

On truly special occasions, The New Inn will fully embrace the occasion. For example, during major football tournaments or rugby championships, they’ll haul in a projector or big-screen TV so fans can watch the game together. Indeed, one management note mentioned that the pub does celebrate big sporting events, even though it’s not normally a sports bar. They also pull out the stops for Christmas: the beer garden gets lights, and the pub sometimes hosts festive lock-ins or charity Christmas lunches. Halloween and New Year’s parties have been known too (in fact, multiple reviews mention spending New Year’s Eve locked-in with everyone at the New Inn).

Finally, the pub occasionally hosts private bookings: a local business might reserve the function room for a party, or a family might hire it for a birthday. The New Inn’s open-door atmosphere (with plenty of space and an upstairs private room) makes it a convenient spot for such events. If you’re planning a large gathering or want to hold a quiz for charity, the staff are receptive.

Overall, The New Inn’s calendar is active but not over-the-top. The emphasis is on community-style entertainment: quiz nights, folk bands, and seasonal parties that complement the pub’s friendly vibe. As one long-time visitor put it, weekends at the New Inn are often spent soaking up the beautiful garden area and then watching the live music inside – a simple recipe for a fun evening. It’s not a late-night club scene, but there’s enough going on that any night could be a bit special if you choose.

Atmosphere & Accessibility

Inside The New Inn, the atmosphere is warm and relaxed. The Victorian-era design cues (dark wood-panelled walls, stained-glass accents, and an ornate fireplace) give it a traditional pub feel, yet friendly chatter and modern flair prevent it from feeling like a stuffy museum. The space strikes a pleasing balance: in one corner you might overhear regulars discussing weekend plans or sports, while in another a group might be debating the new star on the rota or simply catching up. The music is kept at a low level (often just background tunes or the live band from earlier), so conversations are easy. The crowd tends to be diverse: younger locals and professionals share tables with older long-timers and families (during early hours). This mix gives the place a community feel – people come for a proper pint and stay for the company.

The seating is mixed: wooden tables and chairs in the main area, some padded bench seats against the walls, and a few high-top tables near the bar. On a busy Friday or Saturday night you might see a pleasant hustle: bartenders darting behind the counter, glassware clinking, but still smiles and friendly service. (One review of a busy Friday noted that even with many students around, the place remained incredibly friendly and well-managed.) Despite the cosy size, the layout is practical: the main bar is right by the entrance, and the back room (with its own bar) offers a quieter alternative for diners. The upstairs function room adds a splash of extra space when needed.

For families, the pub is accommodating – high chairs are provided, and children remain welcome until 8pm. After that, the mood shifts slightly to all-ages-minus-kids (the garden continues to fill with adults over lager). Dogs are allowed inside and out – it’s not uncommon to see a friendly spaniel under a table.

Accessibility is reasonable given the building’s vintage. The main floor is level (no steps at the entrance) and generally all on one level, so wheelchair access into the pub is possible. In fact, TripAdvisor lists the New Inn as “wheelchair accessible”. However, like many old pubs, some doorways and aisles are a bit narrow and there is a step up to the fire area. The upstairs room is only reachable by stairs, of course. Restrooms are on the ground floor; one is standard, one is fully accessible (though space is a bit tight). If access is a concern, it’s best to ask staff for guidance – they’re usually happy to help with carrying drinks or clearing a path.

Outdoor seating is a joy in nice weather. The beer garden patio is level with a couple of steps down to the lawn, so not ideal for wheelchairs on the grass but fine on the paved section. Umbrellas and seasonal heating allow the garden to be used in most weather (apart from heavy rain). Patrons often comment on how the sunlit garden and comfortable patio add to the ambience – it feels like an extension of the living space.

The pub’s ambience has a certain “authentic pub” quality. There’s no neon sign, no piped music, and no forced themes. Instead you get friendly banter, a welcoming fireplace glow, and perhaps the sound of a folksy acoustic guitar drifting from a back corner on music nights. Cleanliness is generally good – patrons usually note that the toilets are kept tidy and the floors are swept even when it’s busy. Lighting is warm (lamps and wall fixtures rather than harsh fluorescents), which keeps the mood cosy. All in all, stepping into the New Inn feels like entering someone’s nice, well-loved parlour rather than a cookie-cutter chain pub.

Location & Nearby Attractions

The New Inn is situated on a quiet side street (Vivian Road) just off Harborne High Street. Harborne is a leafy suburban neighbourhood about 2–3 miles west of Birmingham city centre. It has a village-like atmosphere with a mix of shops, cafés, and restaurants along its high street. From the pub, it’s a short stroll to Harborne’s centre: a couple of boutique bookshops, delis and dessert parlours await along Northgate Street. Coffee lovers might visit Jimmy Spices, and there are various casual eateries (Italian, Thai, fish & chips) all within a few minutes’ walk. Notably, the St. Mary’s Church and Harborne Walkway (a scenic footpath along a former railway line) are nearby green spaces for a pre-pub stroll. If you fancy some pub-hopping, the famous Bear (Harborne branch of the Real Ale House) and the Old Thorney are just around the corner on Harborne Road, as is the Alice in Wonderland-themed café for brunch.

Transport links are good: several bus routes run along nearby John Bright Street, connecting Harborne to the city centre, Edgbaston and beyond. There’s no train station in Harborne itself (the nearest rail access is Five Ways or University stations, about 10–15 minutes’ drive away), but direct buses make it easy to get to Birmingham centre or to the University of Birmingham (which is only a few stops further down the road). By car, Harborne is easily reached via the A4040 ring road. Street parking is mostly permit-holder bays during the day, with some pay-and-display spots further up Vivian Road. In practice, many locals just walk or bike – the pub has a couple of outside bike racks. There is no dedicated car park for The New Inn itself, so plan to park slightly farther away or come by other means.

Nearby attractions worth mentioning: Edgbaston Stadium (cricket and sometimes concerts) is about a mile north, so The New Inn can be a good meeting point before or after a match. Birmingham Botanical Gardens and Cannon Hill Park (with a small boating lake and theatre) are a short drive away for daytime visitors. The laid-back Harborne High Street itself is the main draw – after a meal at The New Inn, you might wander over for an ice cream or a cocktail at one of the local bars.

In summary, The New Inn’s location offers a pleasant suburban setting with easy access to Harborne’s local amenities, while still being only a short trip from central Birmingham. It’s a hidden gem off the high street – quiet enough to be neighbourhood-friendly, yet close to shops and transport – making it a convenient spot to stop whether you’re a Harborne local, a Birmingham resident heading out-of-town, or a visitor exploring this corner of the city.

Overall Impression

The New Inn, Harborne, delivers a thoroughly enjoyable pub experience that combines old-school charm with modern attention to detail. It stands out as a genuine local pub with character – the kind of place where you can get a properly pulled pint, relax by the fire, and enjoy a homemade meal. The setting feels authentic: the original Victorian snugs and wooden bar remind you of pub history, yet the vibe is far from stuffy. It’s exactly the friendly, characterful atmosphere that Joule’s Brewery aims to preserve. In fact, the brewery itself proclaims that “The New Inn has always been a special place” and that they want to honour its past while securing its future. You see this in practice every day – regulars who have been coming for decades, mingling with newcomers who quickly feel at home.

The positives are many: excellent ales and well-kept beers, hearty and flavourful food, and staff who seem genuinely glad to see you. The beer garden is a standout feature that adds greatly to the pub’s appeal, especially in summer. For those seeking entertainment, the live music and quiz nights add a fun dimension without overshadowing the pub’s core as a relaxed social hub. Value is another plus – given the quality, the prices feel fair and leaving patrons generally satisfied. The long guest reviews speak volumes: people often leave saying they’ll “definitely be back” or that they had a “lovely” experience here.

No place is perfect, and The New Inn does have a few minor quirks. Its popularity and compact size mean it can get a bit cramped on a Saturday night or busy Sunday afternoon. Snagging a table sometimes requires a bit of timing or patience. Also, the policy of no kids past 8pm might surprise families (though it does keep later evenings a bit more grown-up). If you’re someone who prefers big-screen sports or pub games like darts and pool, you might wish for those, but the pub has chosen to prioritise conversation and community instead. These are small trade-offs for the kind of environment The New Inn cultivates.

All things considered, The New Inn is a standout spot in Harborne and a genuine pleasure for pub-goers. It may be just one of many pubs in the Birmingham area, but it offers a combination of history, quality and heart that sets it apart. It’s the sort of place where locals gather as much as visitors linger — a pub where the staff remember your name, the Sunday roast feels like a home-cooked meal, and the beer glass is always filled just right. With its upcoming refurbishment plans and loyal following, The New Inn looks set to remain a beloved Harborne institution. In the words of a recent reviewer: it’s “well worth a trip out of the city centre to try something a little different in Birmingham”. Indeed, whether you’re a Brummie native or just passing through, this hidden gem promises a genuine slice of English pub life – complete with pints, laughs, and the warmest of welcomes.