The Abbey, Accrington

Don’t believe what WhatPub says the opening hours shown appear to be for “T’Owd Stables Restaurant” behind the pub but are linked to it. The Stables has a horseshoe of national tosh. The pub opens at 4pm but I wasn’t going to hang about from 2:30 for that.

Like the Arden nearby this is an edge of town centre local that was quite busy at the time of our pre-match visit, with Burnley on the telly. There are five hand pumps, with a house beer (Tetleys Bitter by another name), Greene King Old Golden Hen, John Smiths Cask, Hydes Bitter and Moorhouses Pride of Pendle. I didn't fancy any of those, and went for Theakstons Mild on the keg smooth font for a change, which was drinkable. The proximity of this, Grants Bar and the Arden Inn means that if you're heading for one you're likely to go into the other two as well. It'd be rude not to, wouldn't it? Date of visit: 8th August 2015

A good local tucked away. 5 real ales including their own Abbey Cask brewed by someone I've forgotten. 2 roomed pub with a beer garden to the rear. The back room has pictures of music 'legends'. Though none of em are of Sonic Youth or Half Man Half Biscuit which is a shame.