The Red Lion - Parliament Street - Pub Reviews

The Red Lion is a historic pub in the heart of Westminster, London (48 Parliament Street, SW1A 2NH), renowned for its rich political history and traditional British charm. Nestled between 10 Downing Street and the Houses of Parliament, this Grade II-listed Victorian pub – built around 1890 on a site that housed a tavern as early as 1434 – offers an old-world atmosphere with its cosy wood-panelled interiors and period décor. Managed by Fuller’s Brewery, it has served patrons ranging from famous Prime Ministers (Winston Churchill, Clement Attlee, Edward Heath among them) to everyday Londoners and tourists. The Red Lion draws an eclectic crowd of civil servants, political journalists, sightseers fresh from Big Ben, and local professionals unwinding after work – all attracted by the pub’s blend of historic ambiance, well-kept ales, and hearty British fare. It currently enjoys a strong reputation (around ★★★★☆ 4.2/5) in customer ratings, reflecting praise for its warm atmosphere, quality drinks, and friendly service. Opening hours are generous – 10:00 AM to 11:00 PM Monday through Thursday, extending to midnight on Friday and Saturday, and slightly earlier closing on Sundays at 10:30 PM – making it a reliable stop from morning sightseeing through late-night pints.

Facilities & Entertainment

Despite its storied location, The Red Lion offers a cosy, no-frills setting focused on conversation and history rather than modern pub games. You won’t find a dartboard or pool table here, and there are no big-screen sports blasting in the background – an intentional choice that preserves the pub’s traditional character. In fact, the pub eschews live sports and loud entertainment, maintaining an environment where patrons can chat or savour the atmosphere without distraction. Practical considerations align with its central London setting: there’s no on-site parking (visitors typically arrive by foot or public transit), and space inside is at a premium. The building itself is tall and narrow, comprising three floors – a ground-floor bar, a cellar bar, and an upstairs dining room – each packed with historic charm. After a refurbishment, The Red Lion became part of Fuller’s Ale & Pie collection, which means the upstairs dining area doubles as a restaurant space for enjoying meals in a slightly quieter setting. These function rooms upstairs (and a cellar snug below) can also cater to private events, meetings, or parties, offering flexibility despite the pub’s modest size.

Entertainment at The Red Lion comes primarily from its atmosphere and heritage. History buffs will appreciate unique features like the old parliamentary division bell installed in the pub, which in bygone days would ring to alert Members of Parliament of impending votes. (It’s largely ceremonial now – in the age of mobile phones the bell is seldom used – but it remains a talking point, and the occasional ringing has been known to confuse tourists who mistake it for a fire alarm!) Instead of sports or karaoke nights, you’re more likely to find people swapping stories about London or discussing the news of the day under the pub’s historic ceilings. There is free Wi-Fi available if needed, and even a few daily newspapers on hand for those who like to read the headlines with their pint. For a breath of fresh air, the Red Lion provides a bit of outdoor seating – essentially a few narrow benches just outside the front on Parliament Street. It’s not a sprawling beer garden by any means, but it offers a place to perch with your drink and watch the bustle of Whitehall pass by. Notably, the pub is equipped with air conditioning – a welcome amenity on warm days given the often packed interior. Overall, The Red Lion’s “facilities” hew to classic pub tradition: it’s all about good beer, good company, and a unique sense of place, rather than arcade machines or flashy entertainment. And judging by the lively chatter that fills the bar, that formula works just fine here.

Food on Offer

The Red Lion serves up a classic British pub menu, executed well and with a few upscale touches. As a Fuller’s Ale & Pie pub, it’s especially known for its savoury pies and traditional comfort foods. Patrons can expect hearty favourites like beer-battered fish and chips, often lauded in reviews for its flaky fish and perfectly crisp batter (a must-try when paired with a pint of London Pride). Steak and ale pie and other pot pies are a highlight – rich, warming and satisfying, encapsulating that ale-house heritage. Other staples include dishes like bangers and mash, juicy burgers, and a selection of rustic sandwiches for the lunchtime crowd. Lighter options are available too: fresh salads, a soup of the day, and sometimes seasonal specials that incorporate local ingredients. For example, in line with its British theme, the kitchen has been known to offer a delicious haggis Scotch egg as a small plate – a creative nod that appears on the menu alongside more familiar starters.

On Sundays, the pub often features a traditional Sunday roast (with all the trimmings) which can be a real treat if you’re seeking a classic British Sunday lunch. Portions are generally generous – the Sunday roast beef comes with Yorkshire pudding, roast potatoes, veggies, and gravy, providing a homely finish to the week. It’s popular enough that it might sell out by late afternoon, so arriving on the earlier side of Sunday is wise if a roast is on your radar. For those with a sweet tooth, desserts like sticky toffee pudding and fruit crumbles make an appearance, offering a sweet conclusion in proper English fashion.

Importantly, the quality of the food earns positive remarks from visitors. The menu sticks to pub tradition without being overly fancy, but the ingredients are fresh and the execution solid. Vegetarians and vegans will find at least a couple of suitable choices (for instance, a vegetarian pie or a plant-based burger, and hearty salads). The Red Lion’s kitchen also rolls out seasonal dishes or limited-time specials during holidays – think festive turkey pies around Christmas or themed desserts during events in Westminster. While the pub’s main draw might be its history and ales, it doesn’t treat food as an afterthought. On the contrary, many repeat customers note that The Red Lion delivers reliable, hearty meals that complement the overall experience. Whether you’re stopping in for a quick sandwich between museum visits or sitting down to a full dinner upstairs, you can expect well-prepared British comfort food that hits the spot.

Beers on Tap

Beer enthusiasts will be very happy with what’s on tap at The Red Lion. Being a Fuller’s establishment, the pub features a line-up of well-kept cask ales alongside popular lagers and craft offerings. There are typically three regular ales always available, usually Fuller’s flagship brews: the ever-popular London Pride (a smooth, malty bitter that’s a London classic), the stronger and flavourful ESB (Extra Special Bitter), and Fuller’s refreshing golden ale Oliver’s Island. These pints are poured from traditional hand-pulled pumps and are maintained in prime condition – real ale fans frequently praise the care with which the beer is kept here. In addition to the staples, The Red Lion offers rotating guest beers on tap. In fact, it usually has two changing ales on the line-up at any given time. These could include a hoppy craft IPA from a nearby microbrewery or a seasonal ale that’s available for a limited run. For example, recent rotations have featured brews like Dark Star’s hoppy American Pale Ale and the citrusy Salopian Lemon Dream blonde ale. The rotation ensures that even frequent visitors will often find something new to try.

Of course, if ale isn’t your preference, the pub also carries a standard selection of lagers (you can usually find big names as well as some UK craft lagers on draft) and ciders, plus a full bar of spirits and wines. Many visitors, however, stick to the ale because it’s such a quintessential part of The Red Lion experience. The pub’s commitment to quality is evident in every pint: glasses are clean, the beer lines are well-maintained, and the staff are knowledgeable about the products. Don’t hesitate to ask the bartenders for a recommendation – they’re happy to offer a taster or describe a beer’s flavour profile to help you find one you’ll love. Given the pub’s political pedigree, you might even raise a glass knowing that past patrons like Churchill enjoyed their drinks here! Whether you opt for a creamy ale hand-pulled from the cask or a crisp cold lager, rest assured the Red Lion pours a great pint. As one might expect in Britain, pints are the order of the day, but half-pints are available if you just want a smaller taste or to sample multiple brews. In short, the beer selection balances beloved British classics with enough variety to keep beer aficionados engaged – all served in an atmosphere that makes the experience that much more memorable.

Price Range & Value

By central London standards, The Red Lion falls into a mid-range (££) price category, with perhaps a slight premium due to its prime Westminster location. In practical terms, expect most main dishes to be around £12–£20, while pints of beer generally cost about £6–£7 each. For example, a plate of fish and chips might come in at ~£15, and a pint of cask ale is often around £6 (with craft or imported beers on the higher end of that range). These prices are fairly typical for the tourist-heavy Westminster area, and while they’re higher than you’d pay at a suburban local pub, most patrons feel the location and ambiance justify it. You’re not just buying a drink or meal – you’re buying a little time in a historic establishment at the centre of London’s political world, and that experience is hard to put a price on.

In terms of value for money, the consensus is positive. Portions of food are satisfying and the quality is good, so you do get what you pay for. The ales are kept in great condition, which seasoned pub-goers know isn’t always the case in cheaper venues – here you’re paying for a top-notch pint. Service is included only for sit-down dining (and even then, typically no automatic service charge for small groups), so if you order at the bar there’s no additional fee; tipping remains optional, at your discretion, for good service. A few reviews point out that drinks can feel expensive or that a pint here costs a pound or two more than elsewhere. Indeed, some Westminster regulars playfully grumble about the pricing – it’s been noted that the drinks aren’t the cheapest, and the pub’s popularity means you’re not paying for peaceful spacious seating either. However, even those voices often acknowledge that the Red Lion is indispensable given its unique setting. In other words, you might find cheaper beer in a different part of town, but when you’re so close to Big Ben and craving a pint, this pub is the place to be.

For tourists and day-trippers, the prices align with expectations of central London. A meal and a pint at The Red Lion won’t break the bank, but it will be a tad more than in a quieter neighbourhood. Many feel it’s worth every penny for the chance to soak up the history and atmosphere here. It’s also worth noting that being a Fuller’s pub, they accept common payment methods (cash or card) and the service is generally efficient, so you’re not left feeling short-changed. In summary, while not a budget pub, The Red Lion offers fair value considering its location and the overall quality of food and drink. A visit here feels like money well spent – you leave with a satisfied palate and a sense of having experienced a slice of living London history, which is priceless in itself.

Customer Service

Walk into The Red Lion and you’ll likely be greeted by a buzz of conversation and a warm welcome from behind the bar. Despite often being extremely busy, the staff here have a reputation for being friendly, efficient, and good-humoured. Many patrons have noted the team’s ability to maintain composure and politeness even during hectic rushes when the pub is full of tourists or officials on lunch break. The bar staff work quickly to take orders in turn, pour pints with care, and keep things moving. If you snag a table and order food, the servers will bring it out with a smile and are happy to help with any requests. There’s a genuine sense that the team takes pride in this historic pub and wants visitors to enjoy it as much as they do.

One aspect of service that stands out is the knowledgeability of the staff. Given The Red Lion’s rich backstory, it’s not uncommon for curious customers to ask a bartender about the pub’s history or the portraits on the wall – and the staff usually can share a fun fact or two (for instance, pointing out a photo of Churchill or explaining the division bell to the uninitiated). This adds a personal touch, almost like having a mini tour guide along with your drink. Regular local visitors – yes, despite the tourist trade, there are regulars – are often recognised by the bartenders, creating a friendly “local pub” vibe in what could easily be a very impersonal setting. During quieter moments, staff might chat about the ales on tap or offer recommendations for nearby sights, which makes newcomers feel welcome.

That said, it’s worth remembering that this pub gets packed at peak times. Around midday when Parliament staffers and sightseers flood in, or early evening after work, the bar can be several people deep. During those periods, service, while still diligent, might be a bit rushed or less personalised simply due to the volume of customers. A few reviews note that when it’s jammed, you might wait a little longer for a pint or have to be proactive about getting a bartender’s attention – understandable when dozens of orders are flying in. However, even those instances are handled with as much speed as the team can muster, and usually with an apology for any delay. The overall impression is that customer service is a strength at The Red Lion. It’s a pub that could easily rest on its laurels and constant foot traffic, but instead the staff put in effort to uphold a high standard of hospitality. From keeping tables tidy and clearing glasses promptly, to accommodating special requests (like finding you a chair when someone in your party needs to sit), the crew here make an effort to enhance your visit. This mix of efficiency, knowledge, and genuine London friendliness often leaves a mark on visitors. It’s the kind of service that turns first-time tourists into fans – many people come away not only remembering the pub’s decor, but also the cheerful conversation they had with the bartender who poured their pint. In a place as historic and busy as The Red Lion, that personal touch in service truly shines.

Events & Special Nights

Unlike some neighbourhood. pubs that rely on weekly quiz nights or live music to draw a crowd, The Red Lion doesn’t need much gimmickry – its location and legacy are the main attractions. As such, there aren’t regular recurring events like trivia quizzes, karaoke, or dedicated sports nights here. In fact, the pub’s identity leans more toward being a perennial meeting place and watering hole than an event venue. That said, The Red Lion does participate in the occasional seasonal celebration and offers special promotions during holidays. For example, around Christmas time, you might find a festive ale on tap or a limited-time menu of holiday drinks and dishes (Fuller’s often rolls out a Christmas ale, and the pub is usually decked in garlands and lights for a cosy winter atmosphere). During events of national importance – say a Royal wedding or a big state occasion – the pub might unofficially host patrons who gather to watch or discuss it, even if there’s no formal program. The management sometimes puts up themed decor or offers a toast in honour of such events, making the pub feel very much part of the national mood.

Private events are a notable part of The Red Lion’s offerings. Thanks to its upstairs dining room and historic ambiance, the pub can accommodate private functions – everything from small corporate gatherings to birthday parties. Fuller’s even advertises the venue for business meetings or private dining, given its proximity to government offices (one can imagine a team of civil servants having a retirement do in the upstairs room, or journalists hosting a book launch in the pub after hours). These events aren’t public, of course, but it’s good to know that if you have a reason to celebrate or gather a group in Westminster, The Red Lion could be an option. It’s wise to book well in advance for such occasions, as the pub’s spaces are in demand and the calendar fills up.

While live sports aren’t a staple, on very big games or tournaments the pub has been known to make exceptions. England in a World Cup match, for instance, might see a pull-down screen or TV brought out so patrons and staff can cheer it on together – but this is relatively rare. The absence of regular sports broadcasts is intentional; the pub chooses to maintain its usual character instead of becoming a sports bar. For daily visitors, the “event” they seek is often simply the experience of being there: soaking up centuries of history and perhaps spotting a known political figure nursing a pint in the corner. If you’re looking for nightly entertainment like pub quizzes, you might be better off at another venue. But if you consider the parliamentary drama and history as part of the Red Lion’s entertainment (and many do), then this pub provides that in spades. As one journalist quipped about Westminster pubs, a lot of politics happens not in the chambers of Parliament but in pubs like this one – so in a sense, every night at The Red Lion has a bit of unscripted political theatre to it. For most visitors, that unique atmosphere is more than enough to make each visit special, even without a formal “Pub Quiz Night” sign on the door.

Atmosphere & Accessibility

Inside The Red Lion, the atmosphere is that of a living museum of London pub culture combined with a lively local haunt. The interior retains beautiful Victorian features: there’s a carved mahogany bar-back and wood-panelled walls that give the front room a rich, old-world warmth. Overhead, you might notice a patterned ceiling and antique light fixtures, recalling the gin-palace grandeur of the late 19th century when the current building was constructed. Toward the rear, etched glass partitions add to the historic charm, subtly separating snug corners. The walls are famously adorned with political memorabilia – look for the portraits of former Prime Ministers hanging in the main bar area, as well as vintage photographs of Westminster. Every corner seems to whisper tales of political intrigue and social history. Despite these heritage touches, the pub doesn’t feel like a dusty relic; it’s very much alive with the hum of conversation. During off-peak hours, a gentle murmur fills the rooms as visitors chat or lone patrons read the paper. At busier times, the sound builds to a convivial din – pints clinking, laughter, debates over the day’s headlines – that never quite overwhelms, thanks to the relatively small size of the rooms.

The vibe at The Red Lion manages to be both cosy and buzzing. It’s cosy in the sense that spaces are intimate; you might be shoulder-to-shoulder at the bar or sharing a small table by the window. This closeness tends to make strangers exchange the occasional nod or polite comment (“Busy today, isn’t it?”), fostering a communal feel. It’s buzzing because there’s often a diverse mix of people energised by where they are. On a given afternoon you might see a group of MPs or policy aides in suits, unwinding over ales and speaking in hushed tones about parliamentary matters, while at the next table a cluster of backpack-toting tourists excitedly plan their next sightseeing stop. There might be a few long-time local regulars perched at the bar as well – perhaps retired civil servants or neighbourhood. residents who’ve been coming here for decades – adding colour with their banter. This blend of clientele gives the pub a unique dynamic: it feels sophisticated yet unpretentious. Everyone is there to enjoy the pub, whether they’re discussing politics or just resting their feet. The staff’s friendly approach helps newcomers feel included in this mix. It’s not uncommon to end up in a random conversation with someone at the next table about the historical item on the wall or to toast together when something celebratory comes on the news. There’s a palpable sense of tradition; one almost feels part of a continuum, carrying on the centuries-old custom of socialising at the Red Lion.

When it comes to accessibility, the pub does its best given the constraints of a 19th-century building. The entrance is essentially step-free (just a very small lip), meaning wheelchair users can roll into the ground floor bar without too much trouble – and indeed the pub is listed as having disabled access for the main bar. Once inside, however, the narrow Victorian layout can be a bit challenging to navigate during crowded periods. There’s limited space between tables, and when people are standing with drinks it can become a tight squeeze. Still, during quieter hours, a wheelchair or stroller could manoeuvrer with some care on the ground level. Unfortunately, the upper and lower floors are only reachable by stairs (no lift), which means the cellar bar and upstairs dining room are not accessible to those who can’t do stairs. If you have mobility issues, plan to stay on the ground floor – which, luckily, is the most atmospheric part of the pub anyway. The staff are very helpful and will gladly assist by bringing drinks to your table or helping to carry things if needed.

Other aspects of accessibility and comfort: families are welcome; children are allowed in the pub (accompanied by adults) up to the early evening hours. In fact, the pub is listed as family-friendly with a guideline that children are permitted until around 5 PM on the ground floor (and slightly later if dining upstairs). This means daytime visitors can feel comfortable bringing kids for a meal (and you’ll occasionally see a tourist family grabbing lunch, with a cola for the kids and pints for the parents). For those with service dogs or pets, only assistance dogs are typically allowed inside due to space, but dogs are welcome in the outdoor seating area. You might find a couple of patrons outside on the benches with their pups, especially in nice weather. Speaking of which, on a sunny day the outside bench area is wonderful, though limited – it gives you a view of Parliament Street’s iconic architecture and a prime people-watching spot. As noted earlier, the pub offers free Wi-Fi, which is handy as mobile signal can sometimes be spotty inside these old stone buildings. Smokers will have to step outside (the front pavement doubles as the smoking area, since there’s no dedicated beer garden). The interior is air-conditioned, a modern comfort that complements the historic setting – crucial when the place is packed in summer or a warm evening. In summary, The Red Lion’s atmosphere is warm, historic, and inclusive, making you feel like you’ve stepped back in time without sacrificing comfort. While the building’s age poses a few accessibility limitations, the pub compensates with accommodating service and thoughtful touches. Whether you’re a veteran London pub-goer or it’s your first time in one, it’s easy to feel at home here amidst the portraits and panelling, pint in hand, soaking up the very particular ambiance that is The Red Lion.

Location & Nearby Attractions

One of The Red Lion’s greatest strengths is its unbeatable location. Situated at 48 Parliament Street, it sits literally a stone’s throw from some of London’s most famous landmarks. In fact, it’s the closest pub to the Houses of Parliament – step outside and you’re seconds away from Parliament Square. The iconic Big Ben clock tower looms just down the street, and the grandeur of the Palace of Westminster is right around the corner. This means you can easily combine a visit to The Red Lion with sightseeing: many visitors pop in for a pint or lunch after touring Westminster Abbey (which is only a 3-4 minute walk away) or before heading to see the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace (about a 15-minute walk through St. James’s Park from the pub). The pub is also practically adjacent to Whitehall, the broad avenue lined with government buildings and monuments. Along Whitehall you’ll find the Cenotaph war memorial and, just a short walk north, Trafalgar Square with Nelson’s Column and the National Gallery. Strolling from the pub up Whitehall takes you past Horse Guards Parade (where the Household Cavalry have their ceremonial post) and toward central London’s theatre district. In other words, The Red Lion is smack in the middle of historic London scenery.

For those interested in political history, visiting The Red Lion is a two-for-one: you get the pub itself (with its political patrons and decor) and you’re right next door to 10 Downing Street, the Prime Minister’s residence – although Downing Street is gated off, you can see the entrance from the corner by the pub. The Churchill War Rooms museum is also just around the block, tucked away near St. James’s Park. And if you cross Westminster Bridge (located at the end of Parliament Street by Big Ben), you’ll find yourself by the London Eye and the South Bank – so even the modern attractions are within easy reach. Given this proximity, the pub naturally attracts tourists who are exploring these sights, but it’s also incredibly convenient for locals and workers: the area is a hub of buses and tube lines. Westminster Underground station (Jubilee, District, and Circle lines) is only about a 2-minute walk from the pub, making it simple to get here from other parts of the city. Numerous bus routes run along Whitehall and Parliament Square as well, connecting to Trafalgar Square, Waterloo, Victoria, and beyond. Even Charing Cross rail station is only about 10 minutes walk (or a quick bus) away, so regional commuters can meet up here easily after work.

If you’re in the Westminster area to sightsee, The Red Lion is an ideal “pit stop” or meeting point. It offers a bit of respite and refreshment in between touring Westminster Abbey and trekking over to the Tower of London (which is a short tube ride on the District line). For those staying in hotels around Westminster or Victoria, it might even become your local pub for the trip. And for Londoners, the central locale makes it a convenient rendezvous spot – roughly equidistant from the West End and the South Bank, for example. Do note that driving in this part of London is not recommended unless absolutely necessary; traffic is heavy, and public parking is scarce (plus security measures around Parliament make curbside parking impossible). If you do drive, the nearest public car parks are some distance away, so public transport is definitely the way to go. Alternatively, you can cycle – there are bike hire (Santander Cycles) docking stations near Westminster station and by Horse Guards, and dedicated bike lanes on some nearby roads. Once you’re at The Red Lion, you’ll find plenty of other pubs and restaurants in the vicinity too. For instance, the St. Stephen’s Tavern (another historic pub) is just across from Big Ben, and the Westminster Arms is around the corner on Storey’s Gate – both are also frequented by political folks. But many will agree that The Red Lion, with its prime Parliament Street position, is the quintessential choice. Whether you’re a tourist mapping out London’s highlights or a local looking for a central hangout, The Red Lion’s location is second to none. It places you amid a wealth of attractions and ensures that getting there (and onward) is simple and quick.

Overall Impression

The Red Lion in Westminster delivers a truly quintessential London pub experience, one that seamlessly blends historical significance with everyday conviviality. After spending time here, it’s easy to see why this pub has endured through the centuries and remains so beloved. It’s more than just the convenient address or the photogenic Victorian interior – it’s the feeling of walking into a place where history has been made over pints, and yet it’s also a down-to-earth spot to grab lunch and a beer. Few pubs can claim to have hosted the likes of Churchill or to have been present for political whispers about Britain’s fate, all while pouring pints to regular city folk day in and day out. The Red Lion wears this legacy proudly, but not pretentiously. As a visitor, you’re not treated like a museum-goer, but rather as the latest participant in a long-running social tradition. You can appreciate the carved wood and portraits, but also laugh with friends or chat up a stranger at the bar about the rain – the pub welcomes both perspectives.

In terms of the overall package – atmosphere, food, drink, service, and location – The Red Lion scores highly across the board. The ambiance is warm and richly atmospheric, giving you that snug pub comfort even as you sit in the epicentre of a bustling capital city. The food and ales are reliably good, meaning it’s not just a pretty face; you’ll leave with your hunger and thirst satisfied. Service is friendly and keeps the place feeling human, preventing it from becoming a tourist trap. And of course, the location can’t be beat for anyone exploring London. There are a couple of minor caveats: at peak times the pub’s popularity means it can be very crowded and cramped inside, which might not suit those seeking a leisurely quiet pint. If you’re someone who prefers a spacious beer hall or a modern lounge, you may find The Red Lion’s traditional cosy quarters a bit tight. Also, prices reflect the area, so a budget traveller might consider it a splurge versus pubs in less central districts. However, these downsides are easily outweighed by the uniqueness of the place. Many visitors find that any wait for a seat or extra pound or two spent is more than compensated by the experience of drinking in such a storied venue.

The Red Lion is more than just a pub – it’s a cultural landmark in its own right. It offers the chance to enjoy a pint of excellent ale and a plate of fish and chips literally steps from Big Ben, in an establishment that has witnessed centuries of London life. Whether you’re a history buff eager to soak up the atmosphere of a political haunt, a beer enthusiast looking for a well-kept pint in central London, or simply a traveller in need of a rest in between monuments, The Red Lion will not disappoint. I would recommend The Red Lion to virtually anyone visiting London – it’s the kind of place that leaves an imprint on your memory. Locals already know it as a steadfast institution, and for visitors it often becomes one of those unexpected highlights of the trip. Just be prepared for the possibility of a standing-room-only crowd during rush hour, and perhaps a bit of a queue at the bar. Embrace that as part of the authentic London pub adventure. Raise a glass, take in the portraits of prime ministers around you, and enjoy the fact that you’re experiencing a living piece of London’s pub heritage. In a city with thousands of pubs, The Red Lion manages to stand out as something truly special – a pub that captures London’s past and present in one convivial, wood-panelled package. It’s a Westminster gem that’s well worth a visit (or two) for anyone who appreciates history, a good pint, and the incomparable atmosphere of a real British pub.