Situated opposite Ealing Studios, this was the favoured watering hole of cast and crew in its heyday. While the comedy recordings may have finished, little has changed since the glory days – a key factor in this West London boozer’s enduring appeal.

The Venue
A short walk from Ealing Broadway and South Ealing tube stations, the Red Lion has the quintessential appearance of a classic English pub from the attractive cream frontage and hanging baskets to the traditional Fuller’s signage.

Enter through the wooden door and this impression is reinforced on sight of an old-fashioned wooden bar with all sorts of beer and wine glasses stored above, waiting to be filled with your beverage of choice. Scuffed wooden floors, slightly discoloured chairs and worn maroon leather church pew style seating booths are an indication this place hasn’t had a makeover in some time, with an original fireplace and nooks and crannies adding to the cosy atmosphere. The walls are covered with black and white photographs and colourful posters draw on the pub’s association with the Ealing comedy tradition.

Move up a couple of stairs, you’ll find some bigger dining areas capable of accommodating groups and lighter space nearer the back doors, too. There’s a lovely secluded patio garden at the rear of the Red Lion complete with fairy lights, foliage climbing the walls, umbrellas and plenty of tables.

The Atmosphere
While you’re less likely to see famous faces these days, there are colourful characters aplenty. The Red Lion’s association with the well-known studios and its inherent old-school charm mean it attracts an eclectic mix of all ages. Regulars mingle with visitors interested in the pub’s history, while beer aficionados turn up for the excellent selection of traditional brews on offer.

The clientele here are generally well behaved – this is definitely a relaxing place in which to savour a good pint and soak up the ambiance rather than a destination in which to get noisily wasted. Staff are polite and friendly while service is efficient rather than overly attentive.

The Food
Locally sourced food is the order of the day at the Red Lion. The lunchtime menu is available between 12pm-3pm and features traditional dishes like Ploughman’s (£6.80) alongside European meals such as wild mushroom, garlic and thyme risotto (£8.95). Ciabattas start at £6.80 with the sliced fillet steak, rocket and parmesan (£8.95) particularly recommended.

The regularly changing evening menu continues this theme with Moules Mariniere sitting alongside the likes of haddock and chips in light cider batter (mains are generally between £9-£17). Get there early on Sunday for the popular roasts unless you’re happy to wait a while. In addition, the award-winning pieminster pies are served with minty peas, creamy mash and gravy, including the Deer Stalker with venison and dry cured bacon. If that’s not enough choice for you, sharing options include chilli, nachos, mussels and fries (£10).

The Drink
This award-winning pub always offers punters a minimum choice of five top quality Fuller’s cask ales. Regulars include Chiswick (£2.90 a pint), London Pride (£3.10 a pint) and ESB (£3.25 a pint), and there are always two guest beverages (such as Seafarers, London Porter, Golden Pride and Hydes). The bar team is meticulous about ale storage and serving - it’s no wonder the Red Lion’s been named CAMRA’s Regional Pub of the Year for five years running (it holds the 2009 title).

If real ale’s not your thing, wine is served by the glass, starting at around £3.25. A typical spirit and mixer such as vodka and coke will set you back around £3.50. While there are no unusual brands on offer, most of the spirit staples are here.

The Last Word
This welcoming, charismatic boozer offers the best real ales and a great atmosphere to boot. Combine that with all the trimmings of a traditional English pub and you’re onto a winner.

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