The Red Lion, Leytonstone, E11

Impressive Victorian corner pub exterior and the usual shabby chic Antic interior but perhaps not as shabby as some of the others of their chain I visited, and it was good to find it still in rude health some eight years since Antic took it over. Open plan internal space mainly for drinking but with a smaller dining area separated behind a half wall partition, and then a large enclosed courtyard garden area out back with bench seating. It was being well utilised on my mid week visit and I would say comfortably full compared to moby’s recent visit below and I had no trouble bagging a small table off to the side. Eight of the Ale pumps were on the go for my visit and alongside Sharps Atlantic and the house Volden Session I noted Twickenham Four Grains, Slaters Premium, Great Heck Treasure IPA , Burning Sky Plateau Pale Ale and a very pleasant Wild Beer Co. Millionaire Mild Stout. And alongside these were modern craft keg offerings from Sirencraft, Five Points, Arbor and Franklins Brewing Co.

Large corner pub, opened out inside with a bit of a gastro feel. Ten handpumps on the go and my Five points Pale was decent enough. The pub itself was ,on my visit far to rammed to enjoy.

Liked this this pub a lot.Usual wacky mix of Antic furnishings.Loud music ,a young crowd and a 20 beer festival.Amazing and massive outside space that was mobbed.Tried six beers and all were excellent.Fast service as well.