The Red Lion, Fareham

Official site of The Red Lion - www.red-lion-southwick.co.uk

Official site of The Red Lion - www.red-lion-southwick.co.uk

A Fullers house, mainly foody, but seemed very popular with diners, so must assume the previous review regarding food is correct Staff were polite & friendly, no gripes there Large car park at rear, plus free on street parking On entering via front door the bar is directly ahead, to left, step down to a dining area [all tables were reserved during my lunchtime visit[, to right is more dining, L shaped and extending to rear patio garden.The furniture is wooden "country style farmhouse" From memory I do not think the interior layout has changed for over 40 years, but given age of pub, probably same for last two centuries plus, which is not a minus in my book Decor is "country pub" style. plates on walls, horse brasses and low beams. Some of the beams may well be original, but I am no expert here Food, Daily specials, plus varied menu, from around £7 up. Good selection of wines, from 125ml around £2.20 Ales, 2 handpulls + guest, as Fullers house it was HSB, Seafarer + ESB, all nice ales if a bit "corporate" HSB was £3.20, ouch In summary, a nice pub, more foody than pubby. There are two pubs in Southwick, both are excellent, and I guess it depends upon your particular foibles as to which you use. The Golden Lion has wider range of ales, Red Lion possibly wider food & wine choices 8 stars it is, food not tried, but judging by reserved tables I bet it is as good as the ales

superb food more of an eatery but still agood pub with friendly staff and a relaxing atmosphere.