This 17th cent. oak-beamed inn is located close to the South Green. The characterful interior is divided into separate areas with a wood panelled bar to front & quieter seated areas to rear. Patio seating to rear & front. The building is a rare survivor of the great fire of Southwold (April 1659) that destroyed most of the town.
Historic Interest
In 1823 Pigot's Directory coaches left the inn to Norwich leaving every Tue at 6am & Sat at 5am; coaches also left the inn to Yarmouth every Mon & Wed mornings at 7am. Red Lion & premises purchased by Mr Jas Hague (23 Jul 1863). Hired to Mr Daniel Betts Osbourne from 11 Oct 1863. Purchased by James Jillings Apr 1869 when George Tharne hires it (left 27 Aug 1870). 06 Jan 1872 Wm Harrison buys it & keeps it. A paperback book published in 1969, called "Inns of the Suffolk Coast" by Leonard P Thompson contains the following extract: "J.Breck, The Welch Pedestrian" was performing at Mrs Martin's Red Lion on 24th September 1850. Mr H.P.Leggett, the present licensee (1969) took over on 1st November, 1964 from Miss Vera Docwra, who was born at the Red Lion & lived in the house for 50 years. She had succeeded her mother, Mrs Vivette Maria Dunton, as licensee”.
This Pub serves 1 changing beer (Adnams seasonal) and 3 regular beers.
Red Lion, Southwold
Source: Local