A hearty pub lunch in a beautiful country pub is a staple of British culture and, luckily for us, something that The Red Lion specialises in. Located in the idyllic village of Charing Heath, this Kentish pub has been around since the 1500s and has centuries of history to tell.
Authentic oak-beamed ceilings and wooden panelling are just some of the historic features of this charming pub, originally built as a thatched farmhouse in 1562. The red brick exterior and large chimneys give the place a welcoming feel, while inside you’ll find all the staples of classic British pub décor: large wood-burning fireplaces, rustic wooden chairs and tables, exposed brick and framed nature-themed prints all feature. The relaxed, homey atmosphere is palpable, and the urge to curl up in front of the fire with a pint and good company is unavoidable.
This family-friendly menu comes in hearty portions sure to leave you feeling plump and satisfied. Start off with some pub classics like a pulled pork sausage roll, beef brisket croquettes or soup of the day, before moving on to mains. Choose from the likes of classic fish and chips, steak burger, bubble and squeak with bacon, or rotisserie chicken, alongside a decent range of vegetarian options. Dessert features British classics like burnt butterscotch rice pudding and local cheeses, as well as the likes of peach tea junket and affogato. The pub also hosts a residency from The Thai Kitchen, offering fresh Thai food to eat in or takeaway every second Monday.
Don’t want to leave? Well, after a refurbishment project transforming a disused barn into four guest rooms, you don’t have to. All the rooms come equipped with en suites and flat screen TVs, and if that’s not convincing enough, all guests can enjoy a complimentary breakfast during their stay.