The Golden Lion, Newton Abbot

Peter Forster left this review about The Golden Lion

Self proclaimed oldest pub in Newton Abbot this may indeed be the case as The Golden Lion sits in the heart of the town. It is clearly an old coaching Inn and as such the entrance feels like it is at the back of the building but makes sense when you imagine the stagecoaches drawing up and assembling in the courtyard. Inside it is effectively one large bar with various nooks and crannies, again typical of the type. Quite dimly lit with low ceilings, unfortunately any attempt to make it seem period has failed and it feels more like a sports bar with very loud music and equally loud families with young children given the run of the place. However the barman was friendly and the Dartmoor Jail was surprisingly okay (NBSS 3). Overall a local families place and otherwise probably to be avoided.

On 15^th June 2026 - rating: 4
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