PUB Spy’s day didn’t start so well.

He had initially intended to make a covert inspection of the Feathers, the new incarnation of what used to the Cap and Gown in the Upper Tything.

But after walking there is hot sunshine, he found it was closed; not simply not open, but clearly still in the process of renovation, with whitewashed windows.

Stymied, he headed back down to the city centre and found himself being drawn to the historic environs of New Street, one of Worcester’s mist picturesque thoroughfares, and ended up in the King Charles II, itself steeped in history.

It is said that on September 3, 1651, after losing the Battle of Worcester to Cromwell’s New Model Army, King Charles, now a wanted man with a price of £1,000 on his head, fled Worcester from this building to France.

The interior is in the British black-and-white style, with steps and floorboards that creak in the hallowed tradition.

The pub is also renowned for its selection of real ales, notably from the county-based Craddocks Brewery.

The staff member behind the bar clearly knew her stuff; when asked about the various brews by a couple of customers who were clearly real ale buffs, she was able to knowledgeably guide them through the different styles of each beer.

A good range of ciders is also on hand to those who prefer the apple to the grain.

But Pub Spy, who had to maintain a clear head, had to opt instead for a lager shandy, the only possible drink for such a hot day when you are still at work.

Food-wise, the King Charles is renowned for its selection of gourmet pies, served with a selection of flavoured mashes, as another avatar of Pub Spy has ably described.

But in deference to the Mediterranean weather conditions, he went for the King Charles II Pasta, described on the menu as linguine, chorizo, chicken, pesto, chilli peppers and cream.

Shortly after ordering, he was told: “It may take a little time, the chef is cooking the noodles from scratch.”

Excellent news, that; no flash-frozen microwaved portions here. it would appear.

And when the food arrived it was indeed splendid, a generous serving indeed.

The pasta was exactly al dente, the chicken slightly herby, chorizo characterful without being too chewy, as some chorizo can be, and the small red chillies adding bursts of piquancy. All in all, a thoroughly satisfying and filling dish, and good value at £11.50.

Early on a Saturday lunchtime, the pub was not full, but customers started coming in at a steady pace, some wanting only a drink, but more chasing lunch as well.

One of them sat down at the piano in the pub’s first-floor dining room and gave us a few tunes, which added a nice touch to the visit.

Overall, the King Charles deserves its excellent reputation, and Pub Spy is extremely likely to return when not on duty and make a more thorough assessment of its many and varied charms.

If he were visiting today, King Charles II would probably relish the chance to enjoy the pub that bears his name.

SCORES

Atmosphere 8/10

Decor 8/10

Staff 9/10

Drink 8/10

Food 9/10

Prices 9/10

Overall 9/10