The Railway Hotel in Blackburn

Ah, The Railway Hotel – it's one of those pubs that really hits the spot for a casual get-together over drinks. From what I've gathered from the chats online, the staff are absolute gems, always up for a chat and making sure everything runs smoothly, which is just what you want after a long day. The beer selection is spot on too, with plenty of choices to suit different tastes, and that outdoor area by the bowling green? It's a proper hidden gem for soaking up some fresh air and enjoying the view, especially if the weather's playing ball. But, and I say this as a mate who's been around a few pubs, it's not all perfect – parking's a bit of a nightmare if you forget to register your car, and from the sounds of it, the food might not be worth bothering with, or at least it's let a few people down. The atmosphere can swing from lively and packed to a bit lacklustre depending on the day, so it's probably best for a drink-focused visit rather than a full meal out. Overall, it's a solid choice for us lot looking for a good time without the fuss, as long as you go in with your eyes open to the quirks.