According to the book "Victorian Shrewsbury", this pub was built about 1860 as Ashley House and has unusually long narrow upper windows. And it has a beer connection in that it was once owned by one of the Southam brothers, of the former Southam Brewery in the town. The stables and other outbuildings still survive. It's a large place inside but a comprehensive refurbishment in December 2014, has led to a comfortable and calm ambience. Although open plan in theory, the design is such that there are eight (at least!) different areas where one can linger. While there's plenty of dining space, drinkers need not feel left out and they can indulge themselves comfortably here. The landlord is an ale enthusiast so various promotions are organized, such as Meet the Brewer events Mondays are currently advertised as Cask Ale Club days, meaning all cask ales are £2.50/pint (Mar 2017). Choice is aplenty too, with a fine array of 10 handpumps, offering up to 8 guest ales over the main-stays.