The Red Lion at Hellidon

On what would have been my Father’s 90th birthday I took my Mother to the Red Lion as this is a pub they used to visit whilst dating and when they were first married. The superb food was not matched by the service which at times was aloof. If you can forgive the service, the food was amazing. Between us we had soup (not photographed), ham terrine and bread and olives to start and beef Sunday lunch (x2) and the salmon from the specials board. Dessert was affogato, white chocolate and raspberry cheesecake and two scopes of ice cream (not photographed). The South African white was very good. As a result of the service, the money off vouchers we were given for our next visit won’t be used.

I chose this lovely pub restaurant to celebrate my 70th birthday. Everything was SUPERB! The calf's liver and bacon, and also the chef's cheesecake were outstanding. Service was charming and with a smile. The "happy birthday" plate and candle was a very nice touch! Thank you team. HIGHLY recommended.

We thought we'd try this pub as it was recommended in a review for a cottage we were staying at - what a little gem. The staff are so friendly, relaxed and very efficient. The duck balls and lamb shoulder were outstanding and very tasty. It's just a pity we don't live nearer or we'd be there every week!

Spent a weekend in Badby and this placed looked perfect for dinner one night. I don't usually write reviews but the food was so dissappointing that I felt I had to. Shared the "duck balls" for a starter. This was simply shredded duck formed into two balls with some hoi sin sauce and a sprig of watercress. The duck was poorly seasoned and the dish was just dull...no texture or imagination in flavour or presentation. Off to a bad start. Then, my partner had steak and mushroom pie which, to be fair, was pretty good. Lovely pastry, good amount of steak and nicely seasoned. I had the slow cooked shoulder of lamb...which was awful. The lamb had been shredded and formed into fat disk of meat which, although looked moist, left my pallet dry and unfulfilled. This was served with boulangere potatoes which tasted greasy. Dessert...cheesecake was ok but tasted like a packet mix had been used. My partner had the rhubarb eton mess. This was basically a few chunks of fruit in a bowl of custard and smashed meringue thrown on top. It had an aroma of onion or garlic so it was sent back and removed from the bill. The pub is lovely and website gives an impression of high quality food. Not sure if the kitchen just had a bad night (head chef was away doing catering elsewhere) or if the standards are variable. I hope if you eat here that you are served better food than we were.

Outstanding service during our stay at Red Lion for a family Wedding. The reception the food and service was outstanding, the planning of the occasion with Jane was meticulous to the smallest detail and if the highest standard. . The menu had been thoughtfully planned with the Head Chef, who must be one of the best chefs for miles. All the guests were so impressed and the hospitality all the staff gave us made a truly memorable family occasion .. Highly recommend the Red Lion for a light lunch or dinner you will not be disappointed. Some of the wedding guests stayed overnight. The rooms were both spotless and all had a very comfortable stay .

This is our second visit here, yet again we were not disappointed. Staff, rooms and food all great. Lovely garden area to the front and back to catch the sunshine. Very peaceful. We will visit again.