Red Lion Pub

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If you're looking for some good pub grub without the fancy frills, or something a little different, then read on as the Red Lion at Islip is a great place to visit.


The Red Lion is a period pub dating back to the mid 17th century and has retained it's charm and friendly service. I often visit the playpark in the village and decided to make a stop afterwards for a light lunch at the Red Lion one Saturday. They have a lovely enclosed garden outside with plenty of natural shade from mature trees. The added bonus was a swing and slide climbing frame to keep my son occupied until the food arrived.



Service was swift which is what you want when eating with toddlers and they are quick to bring you highchairs so you're not searching around. I enjoyed a baked potato with tuna and was pleasantly surprised to have a lovely salad on the side. My husband had the ham, eggs & chips and my son polished off quite a bit from both our plates. A children's menu is also available.


Based on this experience we decided to try out their Sunday Carvery last week with some friends and their kids. Luckily we had booked a table as the Red Lion is a popular place on a Sunday lunchtime. The carvery had a great selection of beef, lamb and pork and plenty of delicious crackling. I'd like to know their secret on how to get the crackling perfect. The usual favourites of tasty carrots, roasted potatoes, parsnips and lots of other vegetables were on offer. Best of all, the Yorkshire puddings were fresh from the oven and constantly replenished. There's no stinting on portions either and the owner chef was happy for us to return to fill our plates. If you're looking for a vegetarian option then they gladly accommodate you on this too.


The Red Lion may be a traditional pub but they can surprise too. On Thursday nights they have a Black Rock Grill where the meat is cooked on a super heated volcanic rock at your table. If a seared aged fillet steak is not exciting enough, then tickle your tastebuds with kangaroo steak or wild boar. Vegetarians aren't left out either and can enjoy Halloumi and vegetables.


The restaurant is an obvious reason to visit but the Red Lion also retains a part in the local community with a separate bar area. They have a pool, darts and even Aunty Sally team as well as poker night on Mondays and one off events like Beer Festivals.

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