REVIEW: The Red Lion Cricklade

Me, my husband, daughter and our puppy had the pleasure of visiting The Red Lion Cricklade on Mother's Day. It's a truly stunning Cotswold country pub situated just off the Thames path. The pub dates back to the early 1600s and is a real gem in the beautiful village of Cricklade. 

Darren, Charlotte and their son Ernie offer a wonderfully warm family welcome. Their passion both for the venue and their customers really shines through, you can't help but instantly feel at home.

The Red Lion Cricklade really do offer something for everyone. Darren has over 20 years of experience in both the kitchen and his cellar and this certainly shows.

They offer a large range of personally chosen beers to suit all tastes, there is also an extensive wine menu which compliments the delicious food. It's all locally sourced, fresh and seasonal dishes and they cater to all tastes. From a 3 course meal, lunch to light bites and a specific pizza menu, there is so much to choose from.

They also provide meeting space for up to 16 people with full delegate packages available alongside being open for large parties, family bookings and special occasions. 

The large beer garden is perfect for al fresco drinking and dining and it's dog-friendly too. With accomodation available the 5 ensuite rooms are flawless and modern, with a cosy feel for those wishing to stay a little longer.

To start we had the Salt, Pepper & Chili Crispy Squid served with Garlic Aioli and a fresh locally sourced “Bibury'' Hot Smoke Trout Filet with Horseradish Crème Fraîche and Balsamic Onions. Both starters were elegantly presented and were bursting with freshness. The skillfully chosen accompaniments brought out the flavours of the fish. 

All the main courses looked delicious but we opted for the Roast Leg of Lamb and Roast Topside of Wiltshire Beef with Yorkshire Puddings, all roasts are served with Braised Red Cabbage, Roast Potatoes, Greens and Sunday Gravy. The quality and care given in choosing the ingredients in the dishes is evident in the flavours. Presented beautifully the roasts were substantial, delightfully flavourful and cooked to absolute perfection. Simply divine. 

Our daughter chose the Child's Homemade Dough Thin and Crispy Pizza made with the house authentic Italian Tomato Sauce and Skinny Fries and polished off every last crumb. Even the puppy sitting quietly under the table was presented with a little bowl of dog treats, much to his delight. 

The tempting dessert menu offers a lovely selection of sweet treats, we chose the Sticky Toffee Pudding served with Toffee Sauce and Vanilla Ice cream. The Whiskey, White Chocolate & Apricot Bread and Butter Pudding with Crème Anglaise and The Warm Chocolate brownie, Chocolate Sauce and Vanilla Ice Cream were also delicious.

All deserts were oozing with taste and were heavenly.

Our experience at The Red Lion Cricklade was flawless, the venue, atmosphere, outstanding customer service and exceptional food is absolutely perfect. We are blessed to have this establishment on our doorsteps. I urge you to visit as you will not be disappointed.

Thank you Charlotte, Darren and Ernie!

Find out more or book a table at The Red Lion Cricklade HERE!