The Red Lion, Stodmarsh

Stumbled across the Red Lion on a walk from Canterbury. What a hidden delight! I stopped relying on random public houses for hospitality and good beer and food several years ago and would never cross the threshold of a pub I had not researched well beforehand. So to stumble across this one on a Sunday lunchtime ("We recommend you book two weeks in advance" said the very pleasant maitre d'/ barman, "but we will find you a place don't worry") and have such a lovely experience was pleasing. Inside was full of hops, squashes, eggs and jam for sale and quirky bits and pieces and provided a lovely atmosphere.

The pub garden contains an array of animals including chickens, ducks and rabbits and is very pleasant . We sat there under the October sunshine with a bottle of Chianti and Rioja, and ate a fabulous roast lunch. You may find a cheaper lunch elsewhere, but you'll be hard pushed to find a better and more hospitable establishment .

Bravo!

25 Oct 2010 10:54