THIS week I call in at one of the finest examples of an early 20th-century pub, a Grade Two-listed hostelry, with an interior that has remained virtually unchanged since its construction in 1905.
It is a most impressive stone construction externally, and had two attractive floral hanging baskets on either side of the stone-framed entrance.
However, it is the internal set-up that earns this establishment its fine reputation, and the status of a pub of national, historical importance.
A five-roomed hostelry that boasts an L-shaped bar lobby area.
The decor is stunning, with its Art Nouveau, green and cream glazed tiles adorning the walls, floor-to-ceiling, and also in front of the horse-shoe shaped bar that still retains the original, glazed pull-down shutters.
We were met by the owner, Jean Baxter. Jean has been here for 14 years now and has turned her pub into a multi-award winning, wet-led boozer.
A former East Lancs CAMRA Pub of the Year, it is currently Hyndburn's Pub of the Year for 2014. The pub is also known as ‘Butchers Brig’, a name derived from the close-by railway bridge that led from a now-defunct slaughterhouse.
Jean was a most chatty and charming host, who was constantly having banter with her friendly locals.
Eight rotating ales were on offer, and all at £2.60, irrespective of strength. We plumped for the local Accrington brewer, Big Clock. Their Pals brew was in great nick. A smooth, refreshing, pale ale, at four per cent, it went down a treat.
Others included, Bridestones Columbus and the pub’s 'own brew', Butchers Brig, brewed by Moorhouse’s.
The Victoria is a truly superb, traditional watering hole.
A warm, welcoming and relaxed atmosphere awaits discerning beer drinkers of all ages.
Its old-fashioned and retained interior is quite unusual and stunning.
A pub I would describe as having the 'wow factor' — and there's not too many I would put in that category.
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