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The Red Lion
2 Duke of York Street, St. James's, London SW1Y 6JP (map)
Tel :020 7321 0782
Red Lion
Opening Times
Monday11:30 - 23:00
Tuesday11:30 - 23:00
Wednesday11:30 - 23:00
Thursday11:30 - 23:00
Friday11:30 - 23:00
Saturday11:30 - 23:00
Sunday-
Note : Restricted Opening Hours
Food Times
Monday12:00 - 16:00
Tuesday12:00 - 16:00
Wednesday12:00 - 16:00
Thursday12:00 - 18:00
Friday12:00 - 18:00
Saturday12:00 - 18:00
Sunday-
Beers
Fullers Chiswick, Fullers London Pride, Fullers ESB, Gales Seafarers Ale, Timothy Taylor Landlord (Guest), and Guest Ales, and seasonal ales,
Map
One of London's most magnificent pubs, a realmust on any visitor's list. From the outside it looks pleasant enough, plain brick with some ornate ironwork, typical of many in town; inside there's a wonderful and surprising contrast.
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Dazzling 'brilliant-cut' mirrors cover the walls, their intricate patterns sparkle as they catch the light, giving the impression of a much bigger space. This pub is really quite small and it seems remarkable it was once divided into several smaller bars. The island counter made from rich polished mahogany adds to the glare. Glass and mirrors were very fashionable in the late 1800's and as the technology improved, the designs became more ornate and intricate. To modern tastes it may seem almost too garish.

Built in 1821 on the site of a previous pub, the Red Lion was redesigned in the 1870's. It is often described as a 'gin palace' but was refitted long after the 'mother's ruin' gin era. This pub was designed to impress and create an aura of opulent respectability. It served the staff of the surrounding grand houses and, in its own way, provided some of the sumptuous 'above stairs' living for those 'below stairs'.

Taken over by independent London brewer, Fullers, in 2009, it now stocks most of their regular and seasonal ales, plus guests; all in tip-top condition. The food is 'home made' and freshly cooked, with classics such as steak and ale pie, fish and chips and bangers and mash, all at a reasonable £8'ish. Good, knowledgeable staff add to a friendly atmosphere.

The Red Lion - Paulk
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User reviews for The Red Lion, St. James's
This gem of a pub is all what it alleges. The interior is truly stunning and expertly restored, partaking in drinks in an old gin palace, is a believable experience. Though quite small, it's not an uncomfortable experience. The food is good - the homemade pies in particular and reasonably priced. But just as important, is the exceptional quality of fullers full range ales, with guest appearances from Gales (under Fullers ownership). The management should be applauded on keeping these revered ales in tiptop condition. Staff are attentive, friendly and knowledgeable - A classic pub that ticks all my boxes!
The Red Lionrcbrett,
The interior pics are slighlty deceiving because whenever I've been there it was absolutely packed. Which is good of course - use it or lose it.
The Red Lionmoondog,
This pub is a real 'jewel'. Lovely cut glass mirrors and cosy atmosphere with good beer and baguettes for lunch. Reasonable prices. Very friendly staff. It does a booming business at lunch, so if you want to enjoy the beautiful interior and have some peace before the onslaught, be there around noon. The crowd arrives around 12:30 pm. Don't miss this one - it's a gem!
The Red Lionbeernut,
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