From family-friendly pubs to great live music venues, we’re sharing our favourite places to grab a pint in this locals guide to the best pubs in Blackpool.
The oldest pub – The Saddle Inn
Built in 1776, The Saddle Inn claims to be one of the oldest pubs in Blackpool. Loved by locals and visitors alike, it may be small in size, but it more than makes up for it with its vibrant atmosphere. A great allrounder, this pub is known for its good selection of beers, live sports offerings and exceptional value-for-money food.
The pub is open every day of the week, with food served from 12pm to 9pm.
Best for real ale – Rhythm & Brew Room
If you’re looking for the best pubs in Blackpool for real ale, you won’t be disappointed at Rhythm & Brew Room. As Blackpool’s first full-sized brewery pub it offers a great selection of ales from the Pool Brewing Co. Favourites include Wonky Donkey and Blackpool Blondie, but they also produce seasonal ales, so be sure to ask about specials.
The pub is also a thriving music venue hosting great bands and live musicians throughout the year.
Open daily from 12pm until late, it’s a must-visit for anyone serious about beer.
Best location – The Albert & The Lion
When it comes to finding the best-located pub in Blackpool, it doesn’t get better than right next to the iconic Blackpool Tower. The Albert & The Lion pub is perfectly placed for a refreshing pint or two after enjoying the dizzying heights of the tower ballrooms.
This stylish art-deco-inspired pub is part of the Wetherspoons chain so you can expect great value-for-money food and drinks. Plus, it offers impressive outdoor seating with views out across the sea.
It’s open from 8am until 12am daily and offers step-free access, so it’s accessible for wheelchairs and pushchairs.
Most unique pub – The Red Lion
Technically part of the Blackpool Tower Dungeon Tour, no list of the best pubs in Blackpool would be complete without mentioning it. As the last ‘stop’ on the tour, it offers you a unique chance to grab an actual pint and ‘hang out’ with characters from the dungeons. They’ll transport you back to the decadent but dodgy ‘Red Lion’ pub where gossip and scandal unravel some of Blackpool’s deepest secrets. Plus, you’ll also learn some historical truths about taverns and how mead has been used over the years for medicinal purposes.
You’ll need to buy a ticket from the dungeon tour to access this venue and they have a strict Challenge 25 policy in place, so we recommend taking ID.
Best for food – Vintro Lounge
In the heart of Blackpool town centre, Vintro Lounge is a quirky vintage circus-themed pub serving great food. As well as pub classics, like burgers there are more unusual offerings like a prawn and chorizo orzo pasta or buddha bowl. What’s more, they offer great special offers from lunchtime deals to Tapas Tuesdays, so check what’s on offer for even better value for money.
Best family entertainment – Pirate’s Bay Bar
For a truly family-friendly pub, we recommend heading to Pirate’s Bay Bar. Parents can sit back and enjoy tucking into delicious food and drinks while the little ones run wild. The pub offers an eclectic mix of traditional onsite entertainers, arcade games, and fun competitions that the whole family can enjoy, so it’s no wonder it made our list of best pubs in Blackpool.
Located on the central pier, this pirate-themed pub is open seven days a week until late. It can get busy in summer, but with plenty of seating, it’s never too hard to find a spot to relax and soak up the traditional seaside entertainment.
Best live music – Little Black Pug
Set in a former catholic school, the Little Black Pug is one of our favourite live music pubs in Blackpool. As well as serving over 200 malts, 60 gins and 40 vodkas it offers live music day and night that caters to a wide range of musical tastes. From DJ sets to band and solo musicians, there is something for everyone.
It’s dog and family-friendly too, making it the ideal spot to pop in after a day exploring.
Extend your stay
If you’re keen to discover more than just the best pubs in Blackpool, then why not consider extending your stay? Boasting modern rooms overlooking the beach and promenade, Forshaws prides itself on being one of the best family-friendly hotels in Blackpool. Book direct on our website for the best prices or give us a call on 01253 752378 to speak to us about your trip.
