The Blackburne Arms is an impressive building in the historic Georgian area of the city, just to the east of the Anglican cathedral. It has recently had a makeover, and apparently now also does accommodation, though we didn't stay here.
The bar area is a single large room, with a raised eating area, and tables as well as a spacious standing area by the bar. It's decorated in that modern style of minimalism with dark wood and dark, muted colours. It serves a wide selection of real ales, and is very popular for its food - very traditional pub grub - all at very reasonable prices (mains for around £5, and £2.50 a pint).
It attracts a mixed crowd with lots of locals - some of whom were a little worse for wear when we visited, and a bit noisy in a laddish sort of way, which was a pity, as it made the ambience a bit less friendly (and hence dropped to 4 stars). The area outside can also attract the odd red-light custom, which single women may find intimidating, though that's not the pub's fault. read more