We all know what a beer desert Burnley town centre is, so it's good to report that The Cross Keys has returned to the real ale fold.
For too long this pub was either closed, or open late at weekends,
attracting a bottle-drinking clientele - and I don't mean Chimay or
Liefmann's Frambozen! If that didn't deter you from entering, then the
bouncers probably would.
You will find the pub at the bottom end of St James's Street, near
to the roundabout at the inner ring road. It's also a stone's throw
from The Garden Bar, so at least there are two pubs worth visiting in
this part of town.
For anyone who has not been to The Cross Keys, it really is a fine building. Its imposing exterior surely means it was a popular upmarket hotel in the past. There is wood panelling, and a large circular bar to the right as you enter. Yes, there has been some modernisation, but many traditional aspects remain, not least the ornate coving.
There is a real fire (a plus point, I always think), a pool table, and a raised area which is used for live music at weekends. The pool table is reached via steps at the back of the pub, where there is a second bar, although this is currently unused.
There are two beers available. Theakston's best bitter at £1.30 a pint - uninspiring, but cheap and in very good form each time I've tried it. A recent addition is Moorhouse's Premier - it sells at £1.65, and again is in top form.
I understand the new owners have invested time and money in this venture.
I wish them every success, and remember: drink the real ale while it's
available, as for years it wasn't.
