Red Lion, Whitehall

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(5 reviews)

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FancyaPint?'s review...

Often cited as the most popular pub name in the UK, the most famous Red Lion of them all is probably this one in Westminster. This isn't for its attractive turn-of-the-century features, etched glass or surfeit of mahogany, but because its the nearest pub to Downing Street. So often is it frequented by MPs and various politicos that its televisions show the BBC Parliament channel, instead of the usual sport. Apparently, it even rings a division bell to alert the more right honourable customers of an upcoming vote. In usual media attention-grabbing style, it was also the place where Culture Secretary Tessa Jowell happily announced an end to UK's antiquated licensing laws (even if ironically the Red Lion was refused a late licence itself). The pub's small size and quantity of besuited regulars means its often very busy, even if a cellar bar and upstairs dining room help alleviate the pressure. Still, its worth a look out of peak times and you never know when some tidbit of political gossip might be overheard.

Reviewed by redcat 05 Mar 2011 Helpful? yes/no

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pubbaron
Reviews (1)

14 Dec 2010

Why is it when anyone is told that they cannot do something they blame the messenger rather than the rule makers ?

I use the Red Lion a lot and their staff have to keep constant vigil for customers who blatently break the rules made by Westminster Council ( eg no cycles!) as if they don't up hold these rules ALL outside drinking at the Red Lion would be jepordised. I have always found their freindliness and tolerance to be be the best in the area. Great Place!

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09 Oct 2010

I can add to the above. Having turned up on my bike, I could not (of course) find anywhere to park it in Whitehall or surrounding area. When I decided to stand outside with lots of other people to drink my pink, along with my bike, I was told by some petty and officious employee that it wasn't allowed and pointed to signs to prove it.

Great way to lose custom guys. My recommendation? Go elsewhere - there's plenty of nice pubs out there. This one deserves to close.

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prrp69
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sof2210
Reviews (1)

29 Apr 2010

Dreadful place. Sour-faced and unpleasant staff. I had to apologise to my mother for this unrepresentative slice of London. No wonder politicians and journalists use it.

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02 Jan 2009

Having waited in a queue in excess of 30 minutes on a stairway and landing ( also being used for people waiting for the toilets ) We arrived at the doorway to the restaurant. We had been asked previously "how many" and 3 couples ourelves included said "two" We waited again watching a table for 4 which had not been accupied for a very long time however we were not asked if we would like to share it. The couple behind us gave up and walked off. Then the couple in front of us were seated. Along came 4 people who stood behind us and were immediately told to come in as they had a table for 4 avalable. When I asked why we had been there and not been allocated a table was told " its not our policy !". This seems very unfair what about the single diners sitting at tables for two there then! I would like to add that a better attitude and a little courtesy go a long way

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boat_owner
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