Address: 70 Northgate, Blackburn, BB2 1AA.

Phone number: 01254 662025.

Lancashire Telegraph review by Kimberley Hall from March 11, 2009

A FORMER tearoom, Hartley's has recently been transformed into a 1950s-style cafe with pictures of music icons on the walls and music from the decade playing in the background.

We found out the tearoom is owned by twin sisters from Darwen, who used to own it and have bought it back.

Thinking of nice, good value places to go for lunch in Blackburn can be hard work, but having passed Hartley's once and noticing it had undergone a facelift, we decided to give it a try.

Only a handful of tables were occupied when we arrived, and by the time we left, the place was empty, but we found the atmosphere to be pleasant and relaxed. It has the feel of one of those lost-in-time seaside cafes you find on a day trip out of season.

The menu was varied, with sandwiches, home-made soups and larger meals like chilli or lasagne, but we mirrored each other's order, both opting for a jacket potato with cheese and beans and a cup of tea.

Service was prompt without being rushed and the staff were attentive and friendly.

We got a large pot of tea, more than enough to fill the huge tea cups we were given, and the platefuls of food took only a few minutes to arrive.

The jackets were served with a small, fresh salad and creamy, chunky coleslaw.

We both got stuck into our lunch, our only small criticism being that the beans could have been a little hotter.

At under £10 for a hearty lunch and more than enough tea for two, it was definitely good value and we will be making a return visit soon.

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