About This Pub
Ah, the Cat & Lion – it's one of those pubs that just warms your heart the moment you step inside. Tucked away in the village of Stretton, this place has been around since the 1600s, originally a coaching inn, and they've done a smashing job of blending that old-school charm with a fresh refurb. I love how they've kept the wooden beams and that hay hatch door, making it feel like a step back in time, yet it's all clean and inviting with cosy nooks, a spacious dining area, and even a dog-friendly zone for those who bring their furry friends along. The food's a real highlight; you've got everything from hearty starters and sharers to classic pub grub and delicious pizzas straight from their on-site oven – and it's all available seven days a week, which is brilliant for a spontaneous lunch or dinner. Wash it down with their excellent range of North West brews, or opt for a gin or rum if that's more your thing; it's all served up behind this ornate wooden bar that adds to the ambiance. Sports fans will be chuffed with the Sky and BT coverage on the tellys, and there's even darts for a bit of fun. Plus, if you're staying over, the rooms are comfy with all the essentials like free WiFi and parking, making it ideal for a cheeky weekend escape. On the flip side, while the recent feedback's been glowing, that 3.9 rating hints at the odd off day, maybe with service not quite hitting the mark during peak hours or the odd quirky feature from its age. All in all, it's a solid choice for us pub enthusiasts – go for the atmosphere, stay for the grub, and you'll likely leave with a smile.
Pros and Cons
Pros
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The atmosphere is absolutely charming, with its rich history from the 1600s, original features like wooden beams, and a cosy, welcoming vibe that makes you feel right at home.
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They've got a fantastic selection of food on offer – think pub classics, fresh stonebaked pizzas, and even teas and coffees all day, which is just spot on for a relaxed meal.
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Being a Joseph Holt pub, the beers are top-notch, with award-winning cask ales and local brews that really hit the spot, alongside gins, rums, and wines to suit all tastes.
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It's brilliant for watching live sports on the big screens or having a game of darts, and the heated beer garden is a lovely spot for a summer pint or a bite outdoors.
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The accommodation is a real gem – comfy rooms with free parking and WiFi, perfect for a weekend getaway or a quick stopover, and it's even dog-friendly, which is always a plus.
Cons
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The overall rating sits at 3.9, which suggests that while it's generally well-liked, it might not wow everyone, perhaps due to occasional inconsistencies in service or busier times.
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The operating hours seem a tad confusing from the info available, with multiple listings that could make it tricky to pop in without checking first, potentially putting off spontaneous visits.
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As it's an older building, some areas might feel a bit dated or cosy to the point of being snug for larger groups, so it may not suit those after a more modern, spacious setup.
Contact Information
Tarporley Rd, Stretton, Warrington WA4 4NB
+441925947111
Pub
Closed
Opening Hours
| Monday | 07:00 - 10:00 |
| Tuesday | 07:00 - 10:00 |
| Wednesday | 07:00 - 10:00 |
| Thursday | 07:00 - 10:00 |
| Friday | 07:00 - 10:00 |
| Saturday (Today) | 09:00 - 11:00 |
| Sunday | 09:00 - 11:00 |
Recent Reviews
A great local pub that serves food and offers accommodation. Run by a landlord that truly understands his craft. This establishment sets the standard for what a proper welcoming local pub should be. The Cat and Lion is a real contender for the title of best pub in south Warrington.
We stopped here overnight to meet an old friend. The room was large, clean and modern, had plenty of sockets to plug in everyone's electronics and beauty products. The beds were comfy we all had a great nights sleep. Breakfast was included in the price and even our dog got a sausage cut up in a bowl for him. We booked a table in the pub and the food was very tasty and well priced as were the drinks. What really makes this place though are the friendly staff who are attentive and cannot do enough to make you and your furry friends feel welcome. When the family and I come back through to visit friends we will certainly be back to this nice cosy establishment. Thanks to the team from all of us and Charlie the dog.
Lauren and her team are very accommodating and friendly... I have booked several group bookings over the last couple of months and I have never been disappointed with the quality of food or service. Atmosphere inviting and friendly.
I would definitely recommend a visit
Amazing place, lovely setting the pub is decorated to a superb standard and the food was delicious!!
The staff serving us were lovely and friendly this definitely has to be visited! We will definitely be back, breakfast was excellent.
Great location walked down to it from the Park Royal hotel, fancied a change of scenery and a different menu! (Park Royal hotel is crap for food)
I have passed the Cat & Lipn many times and never thought to try it for a change! This is clearly now changing!
Great team who met me with a smile and warm welcome, let me try a couple of samples then I settled on the larger.
Great pint and perfect place for food good beer and the football that was showing.
Food was prompt and quick, Mushrooms are amazing and delicious the cheese and onion pie is an old time family favourite and the one served here didn’t disappoint!
Service was quick and friendly, price fair and reasonable (starter, main and two pints for less than £30) perfect!
Would highly recommend if in the area or even if wanting to get off the motorway and have a break and some good food.
Looking forward to visiting again.
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