The Red Lion, Thames Ditton

Official site of The Red Lion - www.redlionthamesditton.co.uk

Official site of The Red Lion - www.redlionthamesditton.co.uk

As mentioned before me, obviously an old pub, but given a modern shabby chic makeover and not particularly successfully in my view, it just doesn't feel right. Two pumps on the bar with just the choice of Portobello Westway Pale which was in rather average condition. Didn't really do it for me.

This is clearly an old pub which has experienced a designer refurbishment, an old boarded floor remains as does a fireplace but that's about it. The island bar is located towards the front but the counter for some reason is constructed from cut up old doors, there are hit and miss panels of wallpaper with a flamingo pattern, seating is mixed with much of it being at various reclaimed dining tables including some that look like old café versions with all kinds of seating. Shelves have a selection of games, books and kids' toys. The rear area is bright and airy with a large rooflight, many tables here being set for eating, placemats were old 33rpm vinyl albums. Beyond an outdoor decked area on two levels was popular on a sunny afternoon. Food served but I didn't see a menu. Two handpumps, Hogs Back T.E.A and Twickenham Mosaic Pale, expensive at £3.85 for a 3.2% beer. Despite this worth a look, I understand the beer range varies so a bit of a lucky dip I guess.

Review below is still pretty accurate. It does seem a shame to have rather wrecked a classic pub interior, however having random decor and furniture is possible an acceptable price to pay to retain the pub and keep a couple of very local ales available in very fine form.

Rather a quirky refurb has happened to what used to be a pretty grubby establishment. The exterior is now gastro grey, and the interior is probably best described as 1960/70s kitchen effect. The furniture is a random looking selection of table and chairs, mainly wooden but with some of the blue formica-topped metal frame tables which might once have occupied one’s mother or grandmother’s kitchen, depending on one’s age. The walls are finished in light blue wallpaper with a swan pattern, the sides of the central bar are covered with distressed parts of old doors, and the floor is bare boarded. There is a bright conservatory to the rear, and a large walled beer garden. I was slightly surprised to find myself liking this place: it has a comfortable, wholesome feel to it. Drinks offerings include changing LocAle ales from two hand pulls - Brightwater Little Nipper and Twickenham Sundancer on my most recent visit. I always find the ale here spot on here, and the service very welcoming. Tap offerings include Meantime, Freedom and Brooklyn brands – no Fosters or Wifebeater here, it is evidently trying to be different, and whilst I haven’t yet eaten here, the menu certainly looks individualistic if on the pricey side. There has been a good balance of drinkers and diners when I’ve been in, and whilst both child and dog friendly neither seems to cause a problem. I will continue to drop in here from time to time when in the area.

Has reopened.