Pub of the Week: The Black Bull Inn and Restaurant, Old Langho

This week we have chosen an Old Langho pub, where staff say they have the 'best roast in the Ribble Valley' with 'famous Roast Sharing Boards'.

Name of the pub:

The Black Bull Inn

Address of the pub:

Old Langho Road, Blackburn, BB6 8AW 

Give us some history about the pub:

First registered as a coaching inn in 1555, the wonky old walls have many stories to tell, and give their own warm welcome to travellers from far and wide.

An ongoing renovation has lovingly brought the atmospheric building gently into the 21st century and is once again the heart and soul of the local community.

After four refurbishments, the Black Bull has been pulled from the decline it was suffering, in danger of losing its original character and features that people love so much.

Renovation work occurred to restore originality and keep the warmth and personality that The Bull evokes.

The pub was taken over five years ago in a “dilapidated” state, but has been transformed into a thriving business once again having been bought from Marston’s PLC last year.

This has instigated a planning application to change the use of three rooms in the pub into guest accommodation.

Currently, you enter a softly lit bar, with candles twinkling and open fires burning on chilly Lancashire days.

A vaulted, beamed ceiling in the 300-year-old cow shed is complete with tie rings still in the wall, original stonework.

Being located close to Brockhall Village and directly next door to Ribble Valley View Lodge Park, the Black Bull has become the continuous buzzing hub of Old Langho.

Describe the food:

A crisp, local beer or wine from the extensive range, and move through to our Fire Barn Restaurant to be greeted by our sumptuous A la Carte.

Opening seven days a week, and serving a both classic and contemporary British menu all through the day, we are able to focus on using the best quality seasonal produce from locally sourced suppliers.

Ethos is good, honest, hearty fayre, and a warm welcome to all.

Describe the beer garden:

On the warmer days, the extensive garden boasts panoramic views across the Ribble Valley and towards Pendle Hill.

Watch the sun set, whilst sipping on a cocktail, sheltered in “The Pavilion” (a tipi style stretch tent) or catching the last of those tranquil summer rays on our suntrap of a paved terrace.

What is the most memorable moment at the pub?

Our latest transformation took place post-Covid lockdown number two, where hospitality venues were only permitted to open external areas of their properties.

We chose to make the most of this opportunity and created our magical outdoor space.

With a large stretch tent, known as The Pavilion, a new paved Terrace, outdoor heating, blankets, luxury rattan furniture – all illuminated with fairy lights and pontoon lighting – not to mention table service throughout, this is the premiere Ribble Valley alfresco dining experience.

Add to that an extensive all-weather lawn, covered in picnic benches, each with its own oversized parasol, superb views over the surrounding meadows, a carefully chosen wine and champagne list put together by our in-house sommelier, and an “all day-every day” seasonal menu to choose from – we ensure our guests have an unforgettable experience.

Do you have an entertainment line-up?:

A range of exciting events are available at The Black Bull throughout the year.

Special occasions, be it Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, the Festive period, or a sunny (or rainy!) bank holiday, are all marked with fabulous menus, special dishes, and live music & entertainment.

Explain bonus things offered at the pub:

As the Black Bull is a dog friendly venue, the outdoor area wouldn’t be complete without our own doggy watering hole – a traditional beer barrel with water tap so your fury friend can also enjoy a drink.

We also offer a full Doggy Menu which is available throughout the garden and bar area, just in case your furry friend decides they fancy a bite to eat with you.

The Black Bull Inn received TripAdvisor's Travellers' Choice Award, with an average rating of 4.5 stars.

One user wrote: "We came here for a set menu on Mother's Day and everything was perfect.

"The food quality was excellent, the service the same and the restaurant decor was perfect.

"The staff were hardworking and customer orientated. We will definitely be back."

Howard S wrote: "I recently dined here with friends and I must write about it.

"From the moment we entered we were greeted with open arms and the whole service, start to finish was impeccable.

"The food was out of this world and can only be described as one of the best Sunday dinners ever.

"I would say this is has to be put on your list of places to try. Well worth travelling to."