The Red Lion - Swadlincote

After coming in from the opposite side of Litton, we walked over to the Red Lion. From the outside, it looks like a typical country pub, and the interior reflects that too. However, it lacks the usual tacky decor that often plagues such establishments. The staff greeted us warmly, as you would expect in a much more upscale venue, and they took our order promptly. Our food arrived shortly after, and I was truly impressed. I had the vegetarian sausages and mash. The sausages were cooked perfectly, the mash was wonderful, the onion gravy was delicious, and the accompanying vegetables were also done just right. My companions' meals looked equally impressive. The real ales offered a solid selection, with two particularly light and refreshing options that seemed perfect for walkers. Overall, it was a fantastic visit, and I wouldn't hesitate to make the journey back there again.

Avoid this place! We heard mixed reviews, but decided to give it a shot for lunch. Luckily, children aren’t allowed, so we narrowly escaped that chaos. While we were walking around, we were unceremoniously asked to leave. We also noticed a dog in a cage on a table and the overall cleanliness was quite poor. I completely agree with the negative feedback we've seen about this restaurant.

This is a genuine pub experience! No flashy distractions, loud music, or gimmicks trying to give you free money here! The quirky rooms, complete with real fires, create a charming atmosphere. Although it was the end of July, it was quite chilly! We enjoyed a delicious meal of chicken and ham pie along with vegetable curry. The pie was beautifully crafted and generously portioned—just what you need after a somewhat lengthy walk around the area. The curry was hearty, flavorful, and surprisingly dry, which is unusual since they’re often served in sauce. It also had a wonderful variety of vegetables, not just the usual peas and carrots! A fantastic pint accompanied the meal, and the homemade berry crumble was delightful. I apologize to the real ale enthusiasts; I can't recall the name of the beer! Sorry!