The Best Pubs in Blackburn
Nestled on the southern edge of the Ribble Valley, Blackburn’s pub scene is as varied as its industrial heritage, offering everything from historic coaching inns with crackling fires to lively sports bars and dog friendly locals. Here, you can enjoy award winning cask ales brewed on site, hearty Sunday roasts, and sweeping countryside views from sun facing beer gardens, all within a town that balances modern craft breweries with centuries old tradition. Whether you’re after a quiet pint, live music, or a family meal, the warmth and variety make every visit feel like part of the local fabric. Come and discover the best pubs in Blackburn.


1. The Black Bull/Three B's Brewery
Broken Stone Rd, Darwen, Blackburn/Darwen BB3 0LL, UK
Head straight to The Black Bull, where the Three B’s Brewery pumps out some of Lancashire’s finest real ales right on site—perfectly paired with a friendly, welcoming vibe. This dog-friendly spot offers affordable pints, a solid selection of wines and cocktails, and outdoor seating with gorgeous views that make it a favourite for locals and groups alike. Whether you’re grabbing a quick pint after work or settling in for a relaxed session, the cheap prices and cracking beer selection ensure you’ll leave already planning your next visit.


2. The Rishton Arms
Station Rd, Rishton, Blackburn BB1 4HF, UK
Step into The Rishton Arms, a family run gem that has been proudly serving the village since 1897, where hearty British classics and award winning cask ales take centre stage. Whether you are sinking into a cosy indoor spot, enjoying the sun facing beer garden, or catching live music and the big match, this dog friendly local has something for every occasion. With generous portions, a brilliant Sunday roast, and a perfectly balanced Aperol Spritz on hand, it is the kind of welcoming spot where both locals and newcomers feel right at home.


3. The Clog & Billycock
Billinge End Rd, Blackburn BB2 6QB, UK
Tucked away in the charming village of Pleasington, The Clog & Billycock is a wonderfully characterful pub that has been serving the community for over 150 years. Inside, you’ll find a warren of cosy rooms with open fires, flagstone floors, and a bar boasting six cask ales, an impressive selection of wines, and a full range of cocktails. The menu is a delight, featuring fresh, modern British dishes that are beautifully prepared, and the sunny terrace is perfect for groups or a quiet drink with your dog by your side.
Photo by JThomas — CC BY-SA 2.0 via Wikimedia Commons


4. The Millstone, Mellor
Church Ln, Mellor, Blackburn BB2 7JR, UK
Nestled in the heart of the Ribble Valley, The Millstone is a charming 17th century coaching inn where crackling log fires and warm hospitality create an irresistible retreat. Their chefs craft AA Rosette worthy dishes from scratch, while the bar pours a fantastic selection of beers, wines, and cocktails for every taste. Bring your dog along to relax in the bar area or soak up the peaceful village views from the outdoor seating, making it an ideal spot for groups and couples alike. With beautifully appointed rooms and a menu that changes with the seasons, this is the perfect base for exploring Lancashire's rolling hills without the crowds.
Photo by JThomas — CC BY-SA 2.0 via Wikimedia Commons


5. Spread Eagle Blackburn
Mellor Ln, Mellor, Blackburn BB2 7EG, UK
Perched on the edge of the Ribble Valley with sweeping countryside views from its beer garden, the Spread Eagle is a proper country pub that nails the balance between relaxed charm and quality fare. The bar pours a cracking selection of beers, wines, and cocktails, while the outdoor seating and dog friendly policy make it a brilliant spot for groups or a leisurely afternoon with your pup. Friendly service and well prepared dishes like steak and ale pie or a lamb shepherd's pie with a dramatic shank ensure every visit feels like a genuine treat.


6. The Stanhill Pub and Kitchen
61 Stanhill Rd, Oswaldtwistle, Accrington BB5 4PS, UK
Right on the outskirts of Oswaldtwistle, The Stanhill Pub and Kitchen is a cracking family run spot where local chef Brian Healy’s kitchen turns out freshly made classics, tapas, and a dedicated vegan menu that’s earned rave reviews. The Taproom keeps things lively with live music, big screen sports, and a bar pouring beers, wines, and cocktails, while the outdoor seating and dog friendly policy make it a brilliant choice for groups. With generous portions, great value offers like Friday fish and chips for two, and a warm, no nonsense welcome, it’s the kind of place you’ll want to return to again and again.


7. The Traders Arms
Mellor Ln, Mellor, Blackburn BB2 7EW, UK
Set in the heart of Mellor with stunning countryside views, The Traders Arms is a traditional pub that combines homemade, locally sourced food with a fantastic range of premium ales, wines, and cocktails. The spacious beer garden is perfect for groups and dog owners, and you can even order and pay from your seat using the handy scan and go app. With a welcoming buzz and consistently excellent service, it’s the ideal spot for a family meal, a quick pint, or a relaxing afternoon in the sun.
Photo by thejackrustles — CC BY-SA 2.0 via Wikimedia Commons


8. The Anchor
317 Blackburn Rd, Darwen BB3 0AB, UK
The Anchor is a fantastic, wallet-friendly local where a warm welcome and a cracking pint of cask ale are always on the menu. With a huge beer garden, multiple screens for live sports, and regular live music, there’s always something going on, whether you’re in a big group or just popping in with your dog. It’s a genuinely good spot to catch a match or simply relax with a beer, wine, or cocktail at a price that feels like a steal.
Photo by robert wade — CC BY-SA 2.0 via Wikimedia Commons


9. Brown Cow Livesey
Livesey Branch Rd, Blackburn BB2 4LU, UK
Just a short stroll from Ewood Park, the Brown Cow Livesey is a brilliantly welcoming local that nails the perfect balance of great value drinks and lively entertainment. The bar keeps everyone happy with a fantastic selection of beers, wines, and cocktails, while the outdoor seating and dog friendly policy make it a cracking spot for groups to gather. With live music, big screen sports, and a genuinely friendly buzz, this is the kind of pub where you’ll quickly feel like a regular.


10. The Wilpshire Hotel
7 Whalley Rd, Wilpshire, Blackburn BB1 9LQ, UK
If you’re looking for a proper community pub where the drinks are cheap and the welcome is warm, The Wilpshire Hotel is the place to be. With a huge beer garden, live music, and every major sport on HD screens, it’s a brilliant spot for groups, dog owners, and anyone who loves a lively, no fuss local. The bar serves up a cracking range of beers, wines, and cocktails, and the friendly team makes sure every visit feels like a catch up with old mates.




