About This Pub
You know, chatting about The Red Lion feels like recommending a favourite local haunt to mates – it's got that timeless charm of a proper English pub, with a beer garden that's just perfect for a sunny afternoon pint or a bite to eat. I love how they've nailed the food side of things; their BBQ smokehouse dishes are an absolute treat, full of flavour and made with simple, locally sourced ingredients that leave you wanting more. The team behind the bar are so personable and cheerful, always up for a chat, which really adds to the homely feel, especially if you're popping in with the dog. Events like live music nights bring a lively buzz, and if you're staying over, the rooms offer a cosy rural escape with a bit of history thrown in. That said, it's not without its quirks – being out in the sticks means it's a bit of a trek if you're not nearby, and some of the seasonal offerings might leave you wishing they were around all year. All in all, it's a gem for anyone after good grub, great drinks, and a relaxed vibe, but do check the timings to make the most of it.
Pros and Cons
Pros
-
The food is absolutely spot on, with their BBQ smokehouse offerings like burgers and ribs stealing the show – proper tasty and made with local ingredients.
-
The staff and owners are incredibly welcoming and friendly, making you feel right at home from the moment you walk in.
-
It's a dog-friendly spot with a brilliant beer garden and even a Bedouin-style tent, ideal for soaking up the sun with a refreshing pint.
-
They've got a great selection of beers, wines, and spirits, plus fun events like live music that really bring the place to life.
-
The accommodation is cosy and full of character, perfect if you're after a rural getaway with a dash of history.
Cons
-
It's tucked away in the countryside, which is charming but might not suit those who prefer something more central or easy to reach.
-
Some of the best bits, like the BBQ pop-up, are only available seasonally from May to September, so you have to plan your visit accordingly.
-
The operating hours can vary a bit, which might catch you out if you're hoping for a late one on certain days.
Contact Information
Chapel Ln, Blewbury, Didcot OX11 9PQ
+441235850403
Pub
Open Now
Opening Hours
| Monday (Today) | 12:00 - 22:00 |
| Tuesday | 12:00 - 22:00 |
| Wednesday | 12:00 - 23:00 |
| Thursday | 12:00 - 23:00 |
| Friday | 12:00 - 23:30 |
| Saturday | 12:00 - 23:00 |
| Sunday | 12:00 - 20:00 |
Recent Reviews
Called in today for a cheeky pint to be treated by a friendly, cheerful host. There was an event going on but Annabelle had time to explain what was going on. I explained that we weren’t hungry , never the less we were made very welcome. Food looked great, great atmosphere in the large outdoor seating area. Staff attentive and cheerful. Will definitely revisit asap even though we were not locals. A gem of a pub hidden down a delightful country lane.
Had the pleasure of staying here for 3 nights whilst working in the area. What a fabulous place!
Owners and staff were all brilliant, very personable and helpful.
My stay coincided with one of their Paddock Nights, in this case a Jaguar owners club gathering. There was a lovely atmosphere, people chatting over a pint and enjoying the fabulous food on offer.
My room was cool and quiet (perfect for me), very well appointed and perfectly clean.
I spent time in the bar nattering to locals over a beautiful pint of Marlow Brewery Rebellion or in a small nook with a book.
The pub itself is off the main road at the end of a small lane with beautiful thatched properties dotted around, there's ample car parking, a lovely garden, plenty of seating and a large marquee.
All in all a fab little place!
I aslo did some cycling whilst staying here, lots of quiet roads to be found with epic views!
We had a late lunch at the pub and it was a great experience! The BBQ smokehouse food was delicious and the team serving in the pub and outside were very knowledgeable and friendly. The shawarma, sausage in a roll and ribs were particularly good but everything was fresh, very tasty and well cooked. The desert selection of Ukrainian cakes was also delicious. We would definitely like to come back at some point as anything we didn’t order on our last visit, we’d love to try next time!
The BBQ smoke house is amazing. If I was Spinal Tap, I'd rate it as 12 out of 11.
Don't miss out - apparently its there from May to Sept this year.
Friendly, cheerful welcome when we called in for a cheeky couple of pints after visiting a local garden which was open for charity on the ngs scheme. Cracking pint of Brakspear’s, & very pleasant outside seating on a warm Sunday afternoon. Our dog loved it, too.
Nearby Pubs - Perfect Pub Crawl
Discover the 5 closest pubs to this location for an ideal pub crawl experience.
30 Main Rd, East Hagbourne, Didcot OX11 9LN
92/100
1.6mi
118 Park Rd, Didcot OX11 8QR
80/100
2.6mi
126 Broadway, Didcot OX11 8AB
96/100
2.7mi
132 Broadway, Didcot OX11 8RG
68/100
2.7mi
237 Broadway, Didcot OX11 8QJ
84/100
2.8mi