A journey into the unknown countryside on a dark, miserable and wet Friday didn’t seem the most appealing of nights out – but the warm welcome and fine food at the Red Lion made it a trip well worth making.
Despite this being our first visit to this part of the world, the pub proved very easy to find as we entered Longden Common, with plenty of space to park on the main gravelled forecourt.
We had been advised to book in advance – but due to major darts and dominoes fixtures being played elsewhere we found the pub almost deserted as we stepped through the door. This seemed if anything to add to the cosy ambience, with lit candles on the dining tables, views across surrounding countryside and a pleasant welcome from landlord Greg. After ordering drinks, we were shown to a waiting sofa while we chose from the menu and our table was prepared. As well as the menu there was plenty of useful literature to read about country life and current.
For starters Sherree chose chicken goujons, served on a bed of salad. This is one of her favourite starters, and she said they were well presented and well cooked.
I went for the butternut soup squash – a first for me. The soup was quite thick but consistent and well-flavoured, while the accompanying bread roll was hot to touch, allowing the butter to melt inside.
Pleased with our starters, we settled down to the main course. Sherree’s chicken breast in a cheese and bacon sauce went down very well with the chicken tender, although she was unable to finish her sizeable portion.A lot of effort went into the presentation of my 8oz sirloin steak, which arrived at the table covered with flat mushrooms and onion rings with chips and peas on the side. The steak was cooked perfectly and again the meal proved value for money.
For dessert, Sherree chose the treacle tart with cream while I tried a fresh fruit pavlova. Again both were presented well.
The Red Lion serves food from its regular menu on Friday and Saturday evenings, with buffet meals on offer from Monday to Thursday. The pub also offers a senior citizens’ lunchtime menu.
It’s advisable to book tables in advance on Friday and Saturday evenings, and the pub has also started running once-a-month music nights on a Friday, when no food is served.
We had a thoroughly enjoyable evening and would happily recommend it to others.