In the grand scheme of things, Dining Devon is a blog filled with a variety of places. From restaurants with Michelin Stars and RAC Rosettes, to places that you might never have thought of going to. For me, some of the best places I have eaten have been pubs – especially pubs with a good local following serving wholesome, well-cooked food that won’t break the bank.
The Red Lion in Broadclyst is one of these pubs. It’s not a new pub for me though; whilst studying at the local college, I had one of my first legal drinks at The Red Lion not long after my 18th birthday whilst on lunch, or a free period?
Painted in the distinguished ‘National Trust Yellow’, it is filled to the brim with history. It started life off as a stables which is evident in some of the features. It aches with voices from the past, conversations over a local ale at the bar, songs sang now that are long forgotten. It has the energy of an establishment that has been loved and looked after over the years, not just by the landlords but by the local community itself.
We went with my dearest mum, who treated us to a lunch before they went away for a road-trip away for a while. We donned our masks and followed the temporary trail that led us inside. The Red Lion takes the risks seriously, I most certainly felt safe whilst dining with them, and would pass on my reassurances that they are being very careful.
No starters for us today, but the mains appeared speedily. Service throughout was friendly, efficient and reassuring.
Feeling unoriginal, I went for Fish & Chips as I was feeling unadventurous and wanted some comforting and reliable. The chips were hot and crispy, the fish was not solidified in batter and was well cooked, flavourful and not swimming in grease. It’s a simple thing to cook, but it always amazes me how often pubs screw this up.
We left full and happy. We were the last ones out, as they were closing between shifts for a clean-down. We found conkers outside and immediately started remembering childhood conker competitions of which I was never overly successful.
The Red Lion Inn is a great foodie destination that isn’t too far away from the bustling madness of Exeter. A reliable wholesome menu lunch & evening menu, served alongside local ales and brimming with history, it’s a delightful destination that I strongly recommend.
Broadclyst, Exeter, Devon, EX5 3EL
Tel:- 01392 461271
info@pforpub.co.uk
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