Red Lion Hotel, Portsmouth

Primarily an hotel and buffet restaurant, this large mock Tudor roadside inn feels more like a chain pub than a local. It's run by Mitchell and Butler, and it's one of their budget establishments. Food is served all day from either the open buffet or at the table from a laminated menu. There is a single U-shaped bar formed from rooms with different floor levels conjoined during the recent refurbishment, with huge TV screens showing live sports. There are noisy gaming machines. Everything feels cheap, apart from the drinks which are overpriced for the area. No real ale, so the Punk IPA is the best choice. Other keg offerings were Madri, Peroni, Carling, Coors, Asahi, Strongbow, Guinness and John Smiths. Not a destination of choice.

http://www.portsmouth.co.uk/news/campaigns/love-your-local-the-red-lion-1-6143789 "The Red Lion Hotel is roaring to success after experiencing a huge boost in takings. The imposing Cosham pub is up 40 per cent from this time last year thanks to a major £300,000 makeover in February. It was given a complete facelift inside and now prides itself on serving freshly-made pizza from a kitchen that diners can see." Not been in personally, but may help some if in the area

We recently had our Wedding reception here. The manageress Rachel Advised us throughout the planning of our sit down meal for 50 guests. And She & her team surpassed all our expectations. The room was beautifully Decorated, And Our guests were eating within 15 mins,from the start of service.(They chose their own meal from a pre arranged menu) Everyone Of our guests commented on the excellent quality of the food. Rachel and her team certainly made us feel like VIPs Throughout the weekend we spent with them. And we would recommend anyone considering a special occasion to take a look at The Red Lion. You wont be disappointed. Thankyou, Rachel & Her Team From Mr & Mrs M Cormican (Portsmouth Hants)