Golden Lion — Restaurant in England

It's clear that this business is suffering so it's hard to stick the boot in but even in a downturn, some things are non-negotiable... like cleanliness. Sticky tables, empty used glasses stacked on tables, boxes of Christmas decorations stashed in a corner, random boxes stored around the pub, a mountain of filthy and worn garden furniture cushions under the pool table and cleaning supplies sat on a table. It's not a good look and a terrible first impression. With various excuses about why most of the taps were empty, it was disappointing not to be able to sample some of the local brews and had to stick to the standard drink options that could have been consumed anywhere in Britain. Such a great location and interesting space, could be so much more than it is. Moving onto the accommodation, we paid for bed, breakfast and evening meal but due to no chef being available, there was no evening meal. Turned out to be a blessing in disguise as our schedule changed last minute so we were able to change our plans without being tied to dinner (the cost for which was reimbursed). Rooms were well appointed, with a spacious bathroom and unexpected USB sockets on the plugs. Only complaint was ill fitting windows and a loud noise from the water pipes all night that sounded like there was someone in my bathroom on a faulty CPAP machine. I did consider that someone could have been in the next room struggling to catch his breath while snoring his head off but we were the only ones staying there. Breakfast was the one glimmer of light. A delicious full English was just what we needed to kickstart the day and that's precisely what we got. Would have preferred brewed coffee than instant and fresh orange juice to the concentrated stuff... and the occasional microwave bing as host Pete prepared the feast for us was a little concerning. We were graciously provided with a visitors parking pass that saved us a few quid so that was nice. Overall it was cheap and adequate, well appointed and located but with so many other great options in town, it wouldn't be my first choice next...

Whilst returning to the area to visit friends, we felt in need of a decent meal after a busy day. Quick search on Google and we liked the sound of The Golden Lion. We didn't book and, although it was almost full, we were given a warm welcome and found a table. Decor was lovely, comfortable clean and well suited to the old building. The staff were very friendly and attentive: service was timed well to give us a good opportunity to decide. Although forewarned of a delay due to the number of diners, we felt the wait time to be in keeping with fresh, home-cooked food, which is exactly what it was. Everything was nicely presented on the plate and tasted superb. The fish and chips was a generous size with flaky white fish, crisp batter and lovely hand cut chunky chips. My butternut squash risotto was a fantastic balance of flavours, colour and texture - again nicely presented. Desserts were also home-made and my husband was delighted to see trifle on the menu. A very good range of wines were available as well as a very good local beer - Corbridge Lion. If you are looking for excellent food and great service with a personal touch, then look no further. This a genuine, family-run establishment with a high standards of customer care and quality. But you might wish to book! Thank you to all at The...

We live locally and have popped in a couple of times for a drink, but this was our first time dining here. Booked online same day (left a note that it was our first outing with our newborn, just to forewarn we’d need space for a pram) and headed down for a Sunday roast. We arrived and were given options as to where we’d prefer to sit (they’d noted the pram situation and left it for us to decide which was really thoughtful). Between us we ordered a starter (crab - excellent), roast pork and roast beef. Both mains were genuinely perfect - piping hot and beautifully presented. The meat was melt in the mouth, with a great selection of veg and top notch gravy/yorkshire/everything else. I couldn’t recommend more - we don’t eat out often and I generally avoid a Sunday lunch as I think homemade always beats it…but if it’s another roast here, I’ll go again any time. The golden lion is immaculately clean and cosy, with a relaxed atmosphere - somewhere you could stay all day (especially as our little one slept through the whole visit!) As always, Adrian, Pam and their front of house staff were the perfect blend of friendly, welcoming and professional (something that’s lacking in so many places). 10/10 - can’t...