The Red Lion

Well what can I say? This really is a lovely big pub, full of little rooms here and there with a single large space in front of the bar. The staff were very friendly and happy to share a laugh. Out the back is quite a respectably sized beer garden with plenty of space to enjoy the late summer sunshine. As per usual, the fish & chips was excellent and totally NOT greasy as you seem to get a a lot of spoons. If you have difficulty walking or are in a wheel chair, take note that there are a couple of steps throughout, but you can probably get where your going by just choosing the best door. The Guinness was also excellent.

Well, it's a weatherspoons pub, so it does what it says 'on the tin'. A wide menu selection, with a soft drink or beer for £10 or less. Curry, pizzas, burgers, fish, and chips. Ice cream, etc. The place is huge, with lots of smaller areas that all flow into one another. There is a pay and display car park at the side, but be careful parking here as I got a parking ticket. The festival car park is only 1 minute walk away and free after 6 pm. You order and pay at the bar for food. You need to tell them your table number, or you can download the app and order from your phone while sitting at the table. There is free WiFi that you have to sign in to use. It's never too busy in the evenings. You can usually get a table. There are tvs always on and fruit machines if you don't value your money..

I was fortunate to have the Manager's Special 4.99 for fish, chips, and garden peas. I also had a portion of onion rings and a side order of roasted vegetables. The main meal was good, but the sides weren't the best. The Shipyard craftbeer was very good, too. Just over £11.00 for the filling feast. Sunday night is quiz night.

Normally love a spoons meal but sadly this was not one to write home about. Firstly the app would not take my kids order, whatever I tried to chose it told me it wasn't available but when I then ordered at the bar they were all available??? Then although the food was served quick, my beans were only warm? Service at the bar was quite slow and I only saw three staff doing orders and plates to table so maybe they had a staff shortage that day. On the flip side, my wife said her fish and chips was fantastic. Anyway Wetherspoons, your prices and tasty food (when hot) will always be too good to totally say no, so don't worry!

I have visited the pub on more than one occasion and always opt to sit outside as I was on my bicycle and wanted to keep an eye on it. Having used the Wetherspoons app to order food and drinks it is very convenient although the drinks and food always arrive separately. I also have to remind the staff member the food is missing. A small problem but the fact that this issue frequently occurs I think the process needs looking at to ensure it works more smoothly. Having said all this the food is tasty and drinks are good value for money.