Red Lion, Hexham

The landlord of this pub was the head chef at Langley Castle and it shows in the food which is of a far higher quality than the price would suggest. Prices are on par with most pubs but the food is so much more. The pub is warm and welcoming and the locals are friendly. We travel across from Newcastle at least twice a year.

A stone-built village pub with sleeping lions above the door and one by the fireplace. It was very quiet at the time of my visit, which was after lunchtime on a Tuesday, so not surprising. There were three hand pumps with two beers available at the time of my visit (see photo). My half of the locally brewed Firebrick Blaydon Brick was in good nick. This is a pleasant pub which is well worth a visit if you're staying in the area - it's not far from Chesters on the Roman wall. Date of visit: 2nd May 2017