About This Pub
Oh, The Red Lion in Mayfair is one of those pubs that just warms the cockles of your heart – it's been serving up pints for over 200 years, and you can really feel that rich history in every nook and cranny. I love how the staff are always so cheerful and on point, making sure your glass is never empty and chatting away like old friends. The drinks selection is spot on too, with a fine array of ales and more to pair with some tasty pies or toasties if you're peckish. It's brilliant for nipping in after a day of exploring Regent Street or for a low-key catch-up, and there's even a bit of outdoor seating for when the weather plays nice. But, fair's fair, it's not without its downsides – the place is quite compact, so on busier evenings, you might find yourself jostling for space or standing about, which isn't ideal if you're after a comfy seat. And with no bookings allowed, it's all about timing your visit just right to avoid disappointment. All in all, it's a proper gem if you fancy a touch of tradition with your tipple, but do keep in mind it might not suit everyone for a larger do.
Pros and Cons
Pros
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The historic Victorian interior is absolutely charming, with beautiful engraved glass and carved wood that makes you feel like you're stepping back in time.
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Friendly and attentive staff who go out of their way to make everyone feel welcome, no matter the time of day.
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A cracking selection of drinks on tap, including classics like London Pride, perfect for enjoying with mates after a wander around Mayfair.
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It's a cosy spot for a quiet pint or a casual gathering, with that authentic pub atmosphere that's hard to beat in the heart of London.
Cons
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The pub is on the small side, so it can get quite crowded and feel a bit squished during peak times.
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No table bookings means it's first-come, first-served, which might leave you out in the cold if you're not quick off the mark.
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Limited capacity makes it tricky for larger groups or during busy events, potentially spoiling the vibe if you're after a relaxed sit-down.
Contact Information
2 Duke of York St, London SW1Y 6JP
+442073210782
Pub
Opens at 11:00
Opening Hours
Monday | 11:00 - 22:00 |
Tuesday | 11:00 - 22:00 |
Wednesday (Today) | 11:00 - 23:00 |
Thursday | 11:00 - 23:00 |
Friday | 11:00 - 23:00 |
Saturday | 11:00 - 23:00 |
Sunday | 12:00 - 18:00 |
Recent Reviews
Good pub, which we have never been to before and got us out of the rain ,good selection on tap , friendly staff
It was dead of night and the staff were just as attentive and polite as it were much earlier.
A nice simple down to earth little place for an awesome quiet drink or for a gathering with friends, with a lot of history and old school interior.
Highly reccommend, this place will restore hope that common manners still exist in London.
A glorious crystal box of decorative Victorian pub. This old world wealth neighbourhood pub is a feast for the eyes. Every wall is panelled in beautifully decorative cut glass set into carved decorated wood, leading into archways, partitions & a superb, original cloud central bar. This local pub has London street drinking before a stunning, decortively cut glass door into an unassuming, proper London public house. There's a single piece deep patterned ceiling to tap decorative panel coving over perimeter perching for a friendly, calm group of local friends & residents. This is a cut diamond of beautiful vintage pub heritage.
I was desperately looking for a pub for a drink and possibly some food in this area during the 2023 Pride parade, in central London today.
Once inside, it's a very small pub but the staff were working hard to serve everybody and I had a delicious pint of London Pride and some snacks - and was made welcome by some other people at a table.
Good place to find!
A fine den for drinking! For the name, blame King James. Described in the advertising as "a perfect example of a late Victorian gin palace" true, engraved glass and all. This place is brilliant, Sherlock will solve the most villainous plots in this pub. A fine place for a drink any day.
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