The Red Lion Inn, Exeter — Restaurant in East Devon

We were 3 couples meeting at The Red Lion as we have done on occasion, as coming from all directions far a field it’s a central meeting pub. A nice pub. We have never had any issues before. This visit left a very bitter taste!! This was due to an absolute pet hate of mine, being asked to leave your table as it’s needed for other dinners. No prior warning given when booking the reservation, so that one can make the choice whether to book or not. When I go out and meet people I like to spend a leisurely time eating, drinking and chatting, especially when I haven’t seen them for a while. To me it’s an overall social experience, not just popping in to grab a quick bite. The staff were very attentive and extremely quick regarding our ordering and drinks etc. I , at that point did not have any suspicion as to why, until we were given the bill and asked to leave!!!! THE PROPRIETOR BASICALLY WAS SAYING WE HAVE GOT YOUR MONEY, SO YOU CAN ALL “SOD OFF “ NOW. For the sake of prior warning, the pub has now lost 6 customers. Maybe it can afford to? Because we will not be returning to an establishment that implies “ WE WANT YOUR MONEY...

What can I say other than absolutely fantastic. Stayed at the Red Lion for one night on 3rd October, on the basis of an online search for somewhere near Exeter, and from start to finish everything was faultless. A friendly welcome; a beautiful, clean, cosy family room (great value too); fabulous evening meal; great beer; and a lovely ambience. Most striking, though, were the engaging, polite and happy staff who made us feel genuinely welcome throughout our stay; and, indeed, the local customers who gave the place such a buzzy, safe, and homely vibe. (Must also say by way of observation, the behaviour of the younger clientele was impeccable and respectful, which was refreshing to see in a pub environment in this day and age). Finally, special thanks to Jack for looking after us so well at breakfast (which was spot on by the way) - best of luck in the army young man! Will definitely revisit, and certainly for a longer stay! Can't...

We booked a table for nine for New Year’s Day and unfortunately two of the party couldn’t turn up for obvious reasons developed from the New Year’s Eve celebrations. We did not know this until the time of our reservation unfortunately. When I asked the landlord for the location of our table, and at the same time informed him that we were now a party of seven and not nine I was berated for not informing him earlier of this as he had already apparently rejected a party of ten, and he could have given them our table! We had only just received information that the other couple would not join us so he knew at the same time as we did. Obviously profit and bums on seats are very important to this chap. We go to this pub on a regular basis as we have family living in Poltimore but we won’t be going there anymore! So well done, you have just lost in the region of 13 customers from one family through your aggressive attitude. Happy new...