About This Pub
Ah, the White Lion – it's one of those pubs that just feels like a proper local gem, you know? From what I've gathered from the buzz around it, the food really steals the show; folks rave about the generous Sunday roasts and tasty pizzas, all made with a bit of love that makes every bite worthwhile. The staff are dead chatty and create such a welcoming atmosphere, whether you're nipping in for a quick stout or settling in for the evening. That beer garden is a winner on a nice day, and being so close to the station means it's handy for anyone zipping through Watford. On the flip side, it's a shame it's shut on Mondays and Tuesdays, so you might have to plan your visits around that, and there could be the odd hiccup with opening times if things aren't up to date. Overall, it's a solid spot for good times and great value, and I'd say it's well worth a try if you're in the area – just go with an open mind and you'll likely have a brilliant time.
Pros and Cons
Pros
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The food is absolutely spot on – think hearty traditional English pub grub and delicious Italian stone-baked pizzas that always hit the mark.
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Friendly staff who make you feel right at home, with a warm and welcoming atmosphere that's perfect for a relaxed catch-up.
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A lovely beer garden that's ideal for soaking up the sun, especially if you're popping in after a stroll near Cassiobury Park.
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Super convenient location, just a stone's throw from Watford Junction station, making it easy for a quick stop on your way to or from London.
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It's dog-friendly and has nice touches like a dartboard and clean facilities, which add to the classic pub charm.
Cons
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It tends to be closed on Mondays and Tuesdays, which might throw a spanner in the works if you're after a mid-week pint.
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The operating status seems a bit unclear at times, so it's worth double-checking before you head out to avoid any disappointment.
Contact Information
79 St Albans Rd, Watford WD17 1SJ
+441923223442
Pub
Opens at 16:00
Opening Hours
| Monday | Closed |
| Tuesday | 16:00 - 22:30 |
| Wednesday | 16:00 - 23:00 |
| Thursday (Today) | 16:00 - 23:00 |
| Friday | 12:00 - 23:30 |
| Saturday | 12:00 - 23:30 |
| Sunday | 12:00 - 21:30 |
Recent Reviews
We’ve eaten here a few times now. Never disappoints. Food is made with love. Great staff, friendly atmosphere. Would definitely recommend 5 stars 🤩
Beautiful pub with delicious food and yummier stout. Friendly and conversational bartenders, and the location provides a very short drunken stumble to the station. Cleanest pub toilets I've ever seen.
(BTW.. does anyone know the story behind the wooden stocks in the garden?)
I love the garden during the spring/summer. Never been here any other time, but I imagine that during the winter I'd enjoy watching the snooker inside while listening to the fantastic rock music they play on the speaker.
PLEASE have the fish and chips (the chips are the potatoeist chips I've ever had) and the pizza (ticks ALL the boxes). I might stop getting takeaway pizza and just come here instead.
Even the pub-goers all seem friendly but I'm too shy to talk to anyone. :P
Homely, generous and delicious Sunday roast in one of my favourite Watford pubs.
Would highly recommend if you’re looking for a simple but classic British roast dinner. My beef and my wife’s lamb were equally good.
As you can see in the pictures, a generous portion of potato’s and Yorkshire pudding - with everything cooked to perfection.
Depending on the time of your booking, it can be a little bit quiet (14:00 in Sunday for us), but all the surrounding tables were reserved for a little later in the day.
Friendly attentive staff, and great value at £16.50 for a roast beef.
We’ll be back!!
Great Pub! Lovely staff, nice assortment of drinks and ales and the food just hit the spot. Had a shared platter which they offered as a mix and match combo and a couple of beers and cider. All in all it was spot on 👍
I was visiting Watford and during my stay I decided to walk about and explore a bit of the city. It was a rainy day and as I walked past the White Lion my spirit says "stop here and have a tipple" 🤣😂😅
To be honest, I had a nail appointment close by, but I was about 30 minutes early, so I thought "why not" 🤷🏾♀️ The barmaid was welcoming and polite. She didnt have exactly what I wanted so she offered an alternative and I was pleased.
The menu suggests that the food is very affordable. I didn't have much time to grab a bite, but if the smell of the foods being delivered to other patrons is anything to go by...then it's delicious.
Restrooms are available and they were very clean with a nice scent.
The pub has a rather quaint and warm feeling and I was happy!
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