From the original telephone call to booking a table with a very cheerful lady, the feeling was very good and on our arrival at the Inn, although busy as usual, the staff were full of energy and cheerful which is always a good sign. On approaching the bar, almost immediately our booking is confirmed and we're directed to our table (inside) by a delightful lady who pointed out that all foods were still available, fantastic as it was later in the evening and there's nothing worse than making your choice then being informed it is unavailable a few minutes later (10/10 for that one) the menus are set out and our drinks order is taken. Shortly afterwards our food order was taken, the menu is extensive so don't be hard on yourself for being indecisive, there's also a specials board too (this can be a jackpot by the way) and vegetarian meals also have plentiful options. There is plentiful outside seating too if you wish and where your dog is more than welcome. The rear door entrance comprises a step and would be unachievable by wheelchair however the front entrance is flat and negotiable, for both pushchairs and prams too. The food is always good here and the staff are very approachable, friendly and super efficient along with very competitive prices and a large variety of foods no wonder the Red Lion Inn is such a success. The lighting inside is ambient, very cozy however if you are poor sighted take a long a torch, mobile phone flashlight etc, or ask the staff, they'll be happy to help. The outside seating is fully enclosed on colder or wetter days with good lighting, and of course the side walls are removed during the lovelier weather. There is no difference to waiting times or service whether you sit inside or out, and if you 4 legged friend(s) is/are with you and you see no water bowl, just ask and one shall appear filled with fresh water. The bench seating in the outer area is comfortable (yes I've sat outside too) and it is just as pleasant an experience. Please book to ensure a table suitable for your requrem to avoid disappointment, it's well worth the effort and saves you from that sinking feeling as the staff genuinely do dislike having to say sorry we don't have availability, and on the subject of booking, larger numbers are welcomed too and the seating can be easily arranged for your...
Read moreMy star ratings are based on my expectations before I visit a place compared to my experience whilst there and I have to say The Red Lion exceeded my expectations, hence the 5 stars! The pub was busy, very busy, and since we didn't have a reservation we had to wait an hour for a table. Not a problem for us, a couple of drinks outside in the covered beer garden and the hour passed in no time. The staff were incredibly nice and worked really hard to ensure everyone was fed and watered, wined or aled. The food was excellent, the steak and haggis pie was a big hit with giant pieces of tender steak and a large slice of haggis under a golden, flaky puff pastry lid. The haddock and chips were also cooked to perfection, with light batter and flakey white haddock. We couldn't get enough of either. For dessert we had the cheese board and a chocolate and raspberry tart. Three decent wedges of cheese, Brie, Cheddar and Stilton, oatcakes, grapes and Chutney all complimented each other perfectly and were a meal in themselves. The tart was incredible, silky smooth chocolate and a base so light you wouldn't even know it was there and two big scoops of vanilla ice-cream. My only one, very small, issue was with the chocolate and raspberry sauces added to the tart, not the best accompaniment to an otherwise perfect end to a meal. To top it all off the dog was made more than welcome which is always worthy of an extra star in my...
Read moreWow what a very interesting little Pub with lots of very quirky and interesting decorative details, a very cosy welcoming feel to this place we absolutely felt at home here. Sadly we didn't get off to the best start with your staff, one of our party had a bottle of water with them that they placed on the table, this seemed to be some sort of problem even though we had ordered drinks and the water wasnt going to be consumed, she abruptly told us that the bottle had to put away, very OTT. We ordered food and insisted it all came out together as one of our party was only having a starter and we were told this wouldn't be a problem however this did not happen. However the meals were of amazing quality and prices were good and the choice of menu was great. Also the bar was absolutely spotless and has very interesting decor.
This bar is highly recommended by us Sadly one staff member let them down. Hopefully if we are back in the area our next visit will be a full 5 star
Thanks for...
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