As boaters, we know the satisfaction of finding a really good canal side pub, as they are few and far between these days. The Vine in Kinver is an excellent example of a pub boaters will feel comfortable in. It is a place where everyone is welcomed, whether you are popping in for a quick drink or expecting a three course meal. And the staff are amongst the most courteous we have come across.

Background

The Vine was opened in 1863 in competition with the Lock Inn that once stood opposite. Originally two converted cottages, it extended into adjacent cottages over the years and most internal walls were removed in 1980. It is now a one-roomed pub, it retains distinct areas on different levels, with the restaurant overlooking Kinver lock on the Staffs & Worcs canal.

The Vine is very proud to receive the prestigious cask marque award for serving the perfect pint of cask ale. We also received a 5 star award for Beer and Cellar Hygiene.

Situated on Kinver Lock, the Vine boasts a wonderful outdoor terrace where you can sit and watch the boats come and go through the lock. You can eat out on the terrace when the weather is favourable, and there is also a very large garden where tasty Pizzas cooked in the Vine's outdoor Pizza oven are served.

Venture indoors, and you will find a spacious bar with a separate large and comfortable dining area. If you are eating, you have the choice of the dining room or the bar areas - drinkers and eaters mix very easily together. In the colder weather there is a welcoming open fire at one end of the bar with people like us naturally homing in for a warm!

You will find the staff at the Vine generous in service and friendliness, with nothing being too much trouble. The pub is managed by John Sullivan, ably assisted by Ben Baker and the rest of the team. John's wife, Sam, is head chef - and what a chef she is, always prepared to try out new ideas, and producing some truly wonderful dishes. Her Sunday roasts are visual as well as palatable feasts.

Since John and Sam have taken over, with their loyal team behind them, they have brought new life to the Vine. John and Sam are full of ideas: apart from the regular festive events, they have introduced highly successful Themed weekends (Thursdays to Saturdays). In February this year they held an American weekend with hot-dogs and burgers being served alongside the main menu, and more recently, Sam became proficient at Greek cuisine!

What's On

The Vine now has regular live music, with a local band 'The Vibe' appearing in April. And dare we mention our own Gerry Goode (the Bridgnorth Balladeer) who is also a frequent performer?

George Robbins, who was a regular behind the bar and in the kitchen, has now moved on, but comes back every other Tuesday to perform as Quiz Master for a fun quiz night which is growing steadily in popularity. A bargain at only £1 per player...

A new dart board has been installed, which is attracting a deal of attention. Apart from this, there are no televisions blaring, and while there is sometimes background music, it sits comfortably in the background.

Summary

Local enthusiasm for the pub has increased dramatically, and visitors come and leave with only compliments for the food, the drink, the friendliness, and the service.

The Vine is well worth the short walk from the visitor moorings which extend a good way beneath the lock, and also above the lock after the stretch of permanent moorings.

Sam & John welcome everyone to The Vine in Kinver: boaters, cyclists, locals, walkers - even dogs and children. The food is excellent, as is the range of beers, lagers, ciders and spirits. They also take care to have some zero alcohol beverages available. It's the friendliness of the staff and their commitment to good service which hits you. We can't recommend it enough.

You can see what is happening at the Vine by following them on Facebook or you could contact a member of the team by phoning 01384 936919.