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The Red Lion
★ 4.0(1 review)Bar
local-crowdsports-barfamily-friendly
About the Vibe
The Red Lion has been a Leytonstone institution since 1870, and it's easy to see why locals keep coming back. This is the kind of place where you can grab a pint in the main bar, tuck into a proper Sunday roast in the dining room, or catch a live sports screening on one of their big screens. The newly refurbished garden is a real bonus in summer, and if you're staying overnight, the boutique hotel rooms upstairs are characterful without feeling touristy. It's not flashy, but it's got that rare combination of being both a community hub and a genuine neighbourhood spot. Known for its rock n roll book club nights, 70s and 80s disco parties, and consistently solid pub fare, The Red Lion strikes a balance between traditional British pub and modern East London venue. The beer garden is perfect for weekend afternoons, and the ballroom hosts everything from yoga classes to private events. Skip the generic chain pub experience—this place actually feels like it belongs to the neighbourhood. Rating: 4/5 - Solid pub with good food, regular events, and a real local following. The only reason it's not a 5 is that it can get quite busy on event nights, so come early if you want a quiet drink.
Known For
- •Sunday roasts
- •rock n roll book club
- •70s and 80s disco parties
- •large beer garden
- •live sports screenings
Best For
Sunday lunchwatching footballgroup dinnersweekend drinks
1 review
City InsidersEditorialApril 11, 2026
A Leytonstone institution that actually delivers
The Red Lion is exactly the kind of pub you want in your neighbourhood—one that's been around long enough to earn its stripes but still feels fresh and relevant. I've been coming here for years, and it never disappoints. The Sunday roast is genuinely good (proper Yorkshire pudding, properly cooked meat), and the beer garden is one of the best spots in Leytonstone when the weather's decent. They also do a proper job with their events—whether it's a quiz night, a disco, or just watching Arsenal on the big screen, there's always something going on without feeling forced.
What I appreciate most is that it doesn't try too hard. It's not a trendy cocktail bar with overpriced drinks; it's a proper pub that serves decent food, has a good selection of real ales, and feels like somewhere locals actually hang out. The hotel rooms upstairs are a nice bonus if you're staying over, but even if you're just grabbing a pint, you'll find the staff friendly and the atmosphere welcoming. It's become a genuine community hub, and that's rare these days.
If you're looking for a place to settle in with friends, catch a game, or just enjoy a proper British pub experience without the pretension, this is your spot. The only thing to watch out for is that popular nights can get busy, so come early if you want a table.