Historic Blackburn pub boasts a very cosy atmosphere

In 2021, we have put the spotlight on local wateringholes in our pub of the week to try to find out what makes them a success and keeps their local punters coming back.

We have travelled to Ribble Valley, Burnley, Hyndburn, Rossendale but this week we are in Blackburn.

Lesley Lomax from the Witton Inn got in touch to tell us more about their establishment.

Name of the pub:

Witton Inn

Address of the pub:

182 Redlam, Blackburn, Lancashire, BB2 1XQ

Landlord/landlady’s name(s):

Lesley Lomax

Bar staff - how many and names:

Joshua Lomax

How long have you been landlady at the pub for:

 It’s a local friendly pub, over 300 years old, it caters for all ages and has been in the family for over 25 years, I am in my 20th year now

Explain the history of the pub:

The Witton Inn is situated on Redlam near the old Witton stocks, it’s been a public house for many years. It’s a traditional local pub, with a very cosy atmosphere.

In the history books, it used to belong to the Feilden family and it was an ale house for the workers only.

Is food served? If yes what’s on the menu?

No food served at the moment

Is there a beer garden?

Yes

Do you have any darts/snooker/pool teams?

We used to have a darts team and a pool team

Most popular drink served is:

Fosters Lager, local cask ale

Most memorable moment for the pub was:

Nick Robinson from BBC came to film the pub during the Scottish referendum

Do you have an entertainment line up?

Not since Covid

Have you faced any challenges within the industry?

Constant price increases and Covid

The best thing about running a pub is…

The social aspect, meeting lots of nice people

The worst thing about running a pub is…

Long hours

The perfect cure for a hangover is...

Hair of the dog

•  Can you think of any local pubs that deserve some recognition for what they do in the community? You should send an email to robert.kelly@nqnw.co.uk with your nomination and we will get in touch with them.