The Red Lion, Hitchin

The Red Lion enjoys pride of place overlooking the village green in the village of Preston. We arrived shortly after it had re-opened for its midweek evening session. A couple of other customers were already stood at the bar, along with the landlord. Two real ales were on - Tring Side Pocket For A Today & Abbeydale Fresh Hop Heathen. We'd all opted for the Abbeydale beer, until I noticed a real cider listed on a blackboard to the side of the bar. Offley Cider Tart was soon being fetched from the cellar. Apparently, they are a new local producer. I'm not sure whether or not there were any further rooms, but the sub-divided main bar was quite cosy and unsually had the latest cricket scores listed on a blackboard high up on one wall. A welcoming village local that deserves its CAMRA awards.

Official site of the Red Lion, contains menu, real ale list and event details - www.theredlionpreston.co.uk

Official site of the Red Lion, contains menu, real ale list and event details - www.theredlionpreston.co.uk

Super pub, in good location, nice atmosphere, fine selection of well kept beers (frequent local CAMRA awards), wholesome food, attractive gardens. A fantastic base for a walk - but why is it always the grotty pubs that stay open all afternoon and not gems like this?