London Pub of the Week No.11: The Red Lion

EVERY THURSDAY! Our round-up of our favorite London pubs on or near the routes of our London Walks. We’ll be posting reviews, giving recommendations and directions and from time-to-time delving into the stories behind the pubs and pub names. As always, we want to hear your suggestions, too. Send your Best Pub In London suggestions to the usual address or leave a comment below.
 
The Red Lion

Traditionally the emblem of Scotland, but unlike the Irish or the Aussies, the Scots have few Scottish-themed boozers in London. The Red Lion was also the emblem of English heroic figure John of Gaunt (1340–99) who was the protector of the young King Richard II. The old dog was married three times, once to the daughter of the marvellously named Don Pedro the cruel of Castille. (As a footnote it is Don Pedro’s ruby, taken from the Moors and later worn by Henry V at Agincourt, that adorns the Maltese Cross of the Queen Elizabeth II’s Imperial State Crown: the Crown Jewels.) A statue of John of Gaunt can be seen atop the entrance of the Savoy Hotel, as Gaunt once was owner of the Savoy Palace on this.
(Try the Red Lion 2 Duke of York Street SW1)

View Larger Map A London Walk costs £9 – £7 concession. To join a London Walk, simply meet your guide at the designated tube station at the appointed time. Details of all London Walks can be found at www.walks.com.