Red Lion

i’ve been many, many times over the years during which time the pub/​restaurant has changed hands a few times. Currently, it has the nicest atmosphere and menu it ever has done. If you’ve not been here for a couple of years I suggest you try it again since it joined the Oakman Inns & Restaurants portfolio. The bar is welcoming, you’ll find a seat and although it’s pricey this at least discourages the riff-​raff ;-) and the bar staff have also been willing to knock up cocktails not on their menu for my fussy wife. The restaurant is lovely, seating is comfortable and even when its busy you’re not all on top of each other. The menu has plenty of variation and choice, I’ve always been tempted with side dishes with my food here then regret it as the portions are very filling. My wife and I try to eat here monthly, budget permitting, but due to work commitments we tend to leave it a bit late to book a table and a few times we’ve been too late so book early to avoid disappointment. We usually drive there and leave our car overnight then get a taxi home, the car park seems safe enough despite the isolated location. A taxi cost £10 to get home from here, we live in Leverstock Green to give you an idea how far £10 will get you. Personally I dont think there is a better restaurant in Hemel Hempstead, the Marchmont Arms is alright but if you’re prepared to go there then i’d recommend travelling another two minutes down the road and trying out The Red Lion. It may not be the cheapest place you’ll eat at in Hemel but you get what you pay for and it’s certainly value for money.

This used to be an traditional pub that has transformed into a modern restaurant pub. The fresh modern décor provides a very open and bright dining area, whilst the original part around the bar has a more cosy feel. Food is good, well cooked and presented. The Pizzas are quite large and provide plenty to eat. The pasta dish less so, but still a good meal. Prices will seem fairly high for some meals and acceptable for others. The outside area is pleasant in this rural location, however the road is right outside so occasional traffic noise interrupts this.

This place is a short walk away from a friends house in the English countryside. I’ve been here several times and its always a good drink and meal. On my last visit I had the lamb shoulder with a side of yorkshire pudding… it was smashing.