The Red Lion, Egham

A pub that should be really good but never quite makes it. The building is quite ancient (claimed as 16th century). The front bar is a cosy place to get a drink – if a little cramped. There used to be a nice side area with dark wood panelling that some numpty who has watched too much Changing Rooms has badly white-washed and now looks appalling. There’s usually two to three ales on the go (GK Abbot and Doombar are a regulars), plus Addlestones cider in average condition. There’s food and occasional live music. There can sometimes be customers you’d rather avoid.

This is a routine town centre pub, no frills but no issues either. I did get a greeting and a goodbye which is always a plus point for me. According to the plaque on the wall, the building, or main part, dates from 1521. There is a centre bar with one large space wrapping around, seemingly with the rear part given over to eating. A side patio area is also available. Mainstream beer selection of Ruddles County, Pride and Brakspears Bitter, the Braks was passable, but to be fair it has been very warm lately. Nothing remarkable about the pub but an ok spot as I'd just missed a train and had a half hour to kill.(NB, review dates from 4th July 2009).