The Golden Lion, Newport

Large modern and rambling place over a number of rooms/areas, presumed opened-out or much-extended over the years. Neutral but tasteful décor; exposed stone walls combined with some F&B shades along with the gently dimmed lighting adding to a relaxed atmosphere despite the busyness. Food is uppermost here (and it is very good, having sampled some) but nonetheless three cask beers were on; Doom Bar, Tenby Lollipop (NBSS 3.5) and Bluestone Bedrock (4), the latter two pints justifying its GBG21 status. Staff were efficient and friendly. Noticed they were turning people away on a Monday evening, so they certainly are on top of their game. Overnighted here and the refurbished rooms are of excellent quality, with the added highlight of a comedy slanging match happening in the kitchen during the following morning’s breakfast session. So yes, come here for an excellent beer but be aware that you might find yourself bereft at busy times.

A pleasant pub/hotel/restaurant in the centre of this very nice village, it consists of a long bar running along the front of the pub along with a small snug to one side and a restaurant at the rear. Staff seemed friendly enough and there was a pool table at one end. Décor wise, it’s quite traditional with black beams on the ceiling, sanded wooden boards on the floor, exposed stone walling and a wooden bar counter with some intricate carving. A small brick fire-place was at one end with, appropriately enough, a golden lion above it, as well as various other bits and pieces such as an old flat iron, some bellows, an old suitcase and even a miner’s lamp. A small snug/lobby at one end had a couple of low leather sofas. We did not go in to the restaurant, but as far as I could see this looked to be much more contemporary. The menu was perhaps a step or two up from your usual “pub grub” dishes with most of the main courses being in the £10 - £15 range, although they still consisted of options such as pie of the day, scampi & chips, Thai green chicken curry, burger, fish & chips, etc. On top of this there were a few steaks and a specials board, although these mostly came in at £15+. My haddock in a light coriander and chilli tempura batter was a decent and tasty dish which I very much enjoyed. Maple syrup and black pepper chicken was similarly well received on the other side of the table. The white wine was unfortunately rather warm though, with no evidence of any chilling. Beers on tap were Bluestone Rockhopper and Doom Bar, whilst a third pump appeared to have sold out. Ciders meanwhile were a rather disappointing Carling and Magners Golden Draught.

Official site of Golden Lion Hotel - www.goldenlionpembrokeshire.co.uk

Official site of Golden Lion Hotel - www.goldenlionpembrokeshire.co.uk