A famous Grade II*-listed pub, featured on CAMRA's list of historic pub interiors. Designed by architects James & Lister Lea for Mitchell & Butlers and opened in 1900. The pub is now an oasis in an area otherwise lacking in pubs.

On the ground floor, drinkers are greeted by an impressive bar running almost the length of the pub and featuring original snob screens. What was clearly several separate drinking areas has been opened up into a single room with plenty of light through leaded windows. At the rear is a large dining area. At the top of the grand staircase is a live music venue "The Palace of Varieties". On Friday nights there is live music, and on Saturdays a wider of variety of acts including comedians and singers.

The pub gets very busy before and after Villa home games, with away fans welcome.