Blue Moon Inn OSRS – Your Guide to Varrock’s Iconic Tavern
Old School RuneScape (OSRS) is packed with memorable locations, and the Blue Moon Inn in Varrock stands out as one of its most nostalgic and quest-heavy hubs. This tavern and inn, located in south-central Varrock, is more than just a place to grab a cheap beer—it’s a cornerstone of the game’s lore, quests, and community history. Whether you’re a new player or a seasoned adventurer, this guide dives into everything you need to know about the Blue Moon Inn, from its role in quests to its quirky NPCs and hidden gems. Let’s explore why this spot remains a fan favorite!
Nestled just northeast of Varrock’s southern gate, the Blue Moon Inn is a lively tavern marked by signs at its front and back entrances. It’s a free-to-play (F2P) location, making it accessible to all players, and it’s packed with personality. From its role in iconic quests to its quirky bartender who breaks the fourth wall, the inn offers a mix of gameplay and charm. The Blue Moon Inn is also featured in the Alfred Grimhand’s Barcrawl miniquest, where players can purchase the infamous “Uncle Humphry’s Gutrot” for 50 coins.
Location and Accessibility
The Blue Moon Inn is conveniently located south of Varrock’s General Store and a short walk from the Varrock lodestone. To reach it, teleport to the Varrock lodestone and head north, or walk northeast from the southern gate. Its central position makes it an easy stop for players exploring the city or tackling Varrock-based quests.
Atmosphere and Design
The inn’s interior is quintessentially OSRS—wooden floors, sturdy tables, and a cozy, medieval vibe. A range in the kitchen (not visible on the minimap) allows players to cook, and an empty pot spawns on a table for convenience. The Blue Moon Inn received a graphical update on December 15, 2009, enhancing its textures and lighting, making it visually appealing while retaining its retro charm.
Quests and NPCs at the Blue Moon Inn
The Blue Moon Inn is a hotspot for several quests, with its NPCs playing pivotal roles. Here’s a breakdown of the key characters and their associated quests:
Jonny the Beard – Shield of Arrav
Jonny the Beard is a key figure in the Shield of Arrav quest. Found lounging in the inn, he’s tied to the Black Arm Gang’s storyline. Players must interact with him to progress, making the inn a critical stop for this F2P quest.
Dr Harlow – Vampyre Slayer
Dr Harlow, a drunken ex-vampire slayer, is another notable NPC. He’s essential for the Vampyre Slayer quest, where players seek his advice to defeat Count Draynor. His disheveled demeanor adds a humorous touch to the inn’s atmosphere.
Treasure Chest – Pirate’s Treasure
Upstairs, a treasure chest plays a role in the Pirate’s Treasure quest. This chest is part of a puzzle that sends players on a swashbuckling adventure, adding to the inn’s quest diversity.
Other Notable NPCs
- Bartender: Sells beer for 2 coins and “Uncle Humphry’s Gutrot” during the Barcrawl miniquest. He’s infamous for breaking the fourth wall, claiming RuneScape is a “computer game.”
- Cook: Found in the kitchen, sells cabbages for 1 coin each.
- Gypsy Aris: Claims to be 224 years old, based on a riddle about the stools’ legs in the inn.
Lore and Cultural Significance
The Blue Moon Inn isn’t just a gameplay hub—it’s steeped in RuneScape’s lore and community history. Its name may be inspired by the rare “blue moon” phenomenon (two full moons in a month) or even the Blue Moon beer brand. Some speculate it nods to the Blue Boar Inn from Robin Hood or a real-world Blue Moon Pub in Cambridge, where Jagex is based.
Lore Connections
The inn features in the lore story Worth Comes in Battle, where Signature Heroes Ariane, Ozan, and the Raptor stop by for drinks. This tale, witnessed by Balek (the barkeeper’s son), adds depth to the inn’s role in Gielinor’s narrative. The inn is also the meeting spot for “Ex-Adventurers Anonymous,” a humorous nod to retired adventurers.
Community Nostalgia
In RuneScape Classic, the Blue Moon Inn was a bustling party hub, especially its basement, where players hosted events. While this tradition faded after the Party Room update, the inn remains a nostalgic spot. Reddit posts, like one from u/TheRealDurza, highlight its sentimental value, with players recalling childhood games like hide-and-seek or roleplaying as innkeepers.
Gameplay Features and Tips
Beyond quests, the Blue Moon Inn offers practical gameplay features. Here’s what players can do and some tips to maximize their experience:
Available Activities
| Activity | Description | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Buy Beer | Purchase beer from the Bartender | 2 coins |
| Buy Uncle Humphry’s Gutrot | Part of Barcrawl miniquest | 50 coins |
| Buy Cabbage | Purchase from the Cook | 1 coin |
| Cooking | Use the range in the kitchen | Free |
| Empty Pot | Grab from kitchen table | Free |
Pro Tips for Players
- Quest Efficiency: Combine visits for Shield of Arrav, Vampyre Slayer, and Pirate’s Treasure to save time in Varrock.
- Barcrawl Strategy: Bring antipoison for “Uncle Humphry’s Gutrot” to avoid its negative effects.
- Cooking Hack: Use the hidden range for early-game cooking training, as it’s less crowded than Lumbridge’s.
- Treasure Trails: The Bartender may be a clue giver for level 1 Treasure Trails, so keep an eye out.
Why the Blue Moon Inn Stands Out
The Blue Moon Inn’s blend of accessibility, quest importance, and quirky charm makes it a standout location in OSRS. Its F2P status ensures every player can experience its offerings, while its ties to multiple quests keep it relevant. The inn’s nostalgic pull, fueled by community stories and its party-hub past, adds an emotional layer that resonates with veterans.
Modern Relevance
While the inn’s party days are over, it remains a key stop for questing and lore enthusiasts. Recent updates, like fixing a stretching issue with a barbarian NPC or tweaking dialogue for gender accuracy, show Jagex’s commitment to keeping the inn polished. Fan creations, like the “Blue Moon Inn OSRS” T-shirt on Redbubble by nahht, highlight its enduring popularity.
Fun Facts
- Fourth Wall Break: The Bartender’s “computer game” dialogue is a rare meta moment in OSRS, baffling players’ in-game characters.
- Music Track: The inn plays “Honkytonky Newbie Melody,” added in the December 2009 update.
- Reddit Love: A 2021 post by u/ScreteMonge, “Tales From The Blue Moon Inn,” gained 1K upvotes, showing the inn’s community appeal.
The Blue Moon Inn is more than a tavern—it’s a slice of OSRS history, a quest hub, and a nostalgic gem. Whether you’re sipping a beer, chasing quest clues, or reminiscing about RuneScape Classic parties, this Varrock landmark has something for everyone. Next time you’re in Varrock, swing by the Blue Moon Inn and soak in its unique vibe!