The Observatory Pub in Blackburn

Old Bank Ln, Blackburn BB2 3HG

About This Pub

Ah, The Observatory – it's one of those local gems in Blackburn that I've heard plenty about from mates, and from what I've gathered, it's got that classic pub charm with three bars packed with drinks to suit everyone, from cask ales to spirits. The staff sound like a friendly bunch, always up for a chat, and it's brilliant for catching the big games on Sky or BT with loads of screens around. Throw in pool and darts for a bit of fun, and you've got a spot that's perfect for a relaxed pint with friends or even a family gathering over a Sunday roast. That beer garden is another plus on a nice day, giving you a bit of outdoor space to enjoy. But, let's be honest, it's not all perfect – some folks have had mixed luck with the food; while there are rave reviews for dishes like the lamb shank that just melts in your mouth, others have been let down by watery hotpots or pies that are a tad burnt or soggy. Prices are moderate, but if you're expecting top-notch meals every time, you might end up a bit disappointed. Overall, I'd say it's a solid choice for a casual night out, especially if you're more about the drinks and atmosphere than a gourmet dinner – just go in with an open mind and you'll likely have a good time.

Pros and Cons

Pros

The staff are really friendly and welcoming, making you feel right at home as soon as you walk in.
They've got a fantastic selection of drinks, from cask ales to lagers and spirits, plus those guest ale specials that always add a nice surprise.
It's a great spot for watching Sky and BT sports, with plenty of screens, and the added fun of pool tables and interactive darts keeps things entertaining.
The atmosphere is spot on for a casual catch-up with mates or a family Sunday lunch, and that beer garden is perfect for a sunny day.
When the food hits the mark, it's brilliant – think melt-in-the-mouth lamb shank or a solid gammon, egg and chips that leaves you satisfied.

Cons

Food quality can be inconsistent; some dishes like the lamb hotpot come out watery or with tough meat, which is a real shame for a simple classic.
A few folks have mentioned odd smells, like cheap bleach, that put a damper on the experience when you first step inside.
Portions might feel a bit skimpy for the price, with complaints about things like only a couple of veg florets or overcooked pies that don't quite deliver.
It's not always reliable – one minute you're raving about it, the next you're left disappointed by soggy pastry or burnt edges.
While it's generally buzzing, it can get mixed reviews on the finer details, so you might want to check what's on offer before heading over.

Contact Information

Old Bank Ln, Blackburn BB2 3HG

+441254694203

Pub

Open Now

Opening Hours

Monday (Today)	12:00 - 23:00
Tuesday	12:00 - 23:00
Wednesday	12:00 - 23:00
Thursday	12:00 - 23:00
Friday	12:00 - 00:30
Saturday	12:00 - 00:30
Sunday	12:00 - 23:00

Location

Recent Reviews

Father's day, absolutely lovely meal. Lamb shank literally melted in mouth and the fondant potatoes was superb. Gammon, egg and chips was fab too. No photos but empty plates n stuffed tums

Emma Proud

I’m rocking backwards and forwards between 3-4. And left at 3 reading other people’s reviews.. now the place inside looks great, the staff seem decent and it does seem to fill up. I ordered sausages mash and peas with gravy and presentation is great. Good! But eating it I was like.. is this smash? And for the price of £13 it definitely was a passing by place at the time of rather going to KFC, or maybe they know this. . . ? Anyways £30-40 spent in no time .. not super bad but not amazing .

Anthony Howard

Lamb hotpot not good. Too watery and the lamb was very tough. Had to leave to one side ! Only 2 florets of cauliflower and broccoli. Cheap cuts of meat used . Overpriced and under delivered, very simple, easy lancashire dish to make but yet they failed miserably. Very disapointing. The pub itself has been renovated but yet the toilets still had the old doors on the toilets with graffiti. Won't be going back.

sharon norse

When we first went in there was a weird smell of cheap bleach that was quite off putting. My sister had the steak pie with chips and peas, the pie was a little burnt around the edges, she could have coped with that but the pie had been nuked, the pastry was quite soggy. I ordered the cheese pie with new potatoes but I forgot to mention that I’d also like peas with mine and gravy, when it was brought to me it had tomato beans, so I politely asked if I could change it for peas with gravy, I was told that it would take too long to do the peas 🤷🏻‍♀️ and that I could have them if I wanted to wait about 20 mins or so 😲 Peas only need heating up. All I had on my plate was the slice of cheese pie and 5 small new potatoes, Unbelievable, bear in mind that this was only around 1 pm on a Wednesday. The pub was very quiet ( not surprised there ) the bill came to £35 with the drinks. Never will we set foot in there again. Atmosphere was very dingy and dark. Not worth the trip.

Pauline Ellis

Super local pub with friendly staff and a good atmosphere. Good selection of beers and lots of screens to watch footie. You can even play darts and pool! Large beer garden outside 🍻

John Warren