Blackbird Inn

Reading some of the reviews, as a Scot, I’ve suddenly become nervy about my bias on this place — burned down by us lot? Oh dear…
Anyway, as I was staying close to Ponteland, I thought it would be worthwhile checking out the Blackbird, and exploring some of the area near to my place of work. The Blackbird has some beautiful surroundings, and a manager whose love of alcohol and beer shows — there is a very interesting selection, and overhearing conversations, it is clear he has a passion for what he does.
What lets it down is the food. It’s definitely average — heavy greasy scampi and chips. It wasn’t awful, but it wasn’t good. It’s a shame, because everything else about this place is lovely. If the food was brought up to the standards, the Blackbird would be laughing (wait, can birds laugh?)

The place to be when you visit Northumberland! Wonderfull and beautifull Pub with very fine Ales. It’s situated on a nice spot

Visited with my girlfriend for a mid week meal for the first time and found a local gastropub with city centre products and standards, girl who served us was very friendly and efficient, the place is very clean and blends modern and old décor very well, didnt expect such amazing cocktails in a place on the outskirts and the 2 course set menu was great value, we left very satisfied, will be taking my family there next time they visit and look forward to sunny afternoons (hopefully) as it looks like the outside area will be great in the summer months!

The Blackbird Inn is in the centre of Ponteland village opposite the church. It is without a doubt the oldest building in Ponteland, it was burnt down by the Scots on their way back North from Newcastle before the Battle of Otterburn. From the exterior you can see that the building is hundreds of years old. There are two main bar areas, the main loung bar and the Tunnelroom which is much smaller and so callead as the ceilings are a low curve. Its interesting to visit but unfortunately the interior doesnt retain much of its olde worlde charm as it has been messed about with by successive owners. Needs a refurb. Drinks arent badly priced though and there is outside seating for summer drinking at the front.