1220 Bar @ Red Lion Hotel, Salisbury

An historic 13th Century coaching inn, one of the best preserved in Britain, now a Best Western franchise. Entry is via a cobbled courtyard with an impressive floral display, while there is a vehicle entrance at the back. The collection of unusual antiques, including a skeleton clock carved by Spanish POWs give it a refined air. Food is good and the accommodation is most acceptable given the age and irregularity of the structure. It's comfy, friendly, annoyingly and unnecessarily corporate thanks to the BW franchise. There were 3 ales on in the annoyingly named 1221 Bar – Ringwood Best and Red Lion Celebration (AKA GK IPA) were both very well kept. A good place to stay and a decent start to a crawl.

1220 Bar page at the Red Lion site - www.the-redlion.co.uk

The Red Lion is a fine old inn, dating back to the 13th century if you believe the blurb, now marketed under the Best Western banner. The 1220 Bar is located in the attractive courtyard, and as you would expect it has confortable furniture but the slightly alarming red stripped wallpaper comes as a bit of a surprise. Three handpumps, offering Pedigree, EPA, and Ringwood BB (£3.40). Overall, not bad for this type of hotel bar.

1220 Bar page at the Red Lion site - www.the-redlion.co.uk