Historic Dorset pub The Red Lion reopens after £300,000 makeover

A much-loved Dorset village pub has reopened its doors following a £300,000 refurbishment.

The Red Lion in Winfrith is back open after a £300,000 transformation, giving the historic Dorset village pub a fresher, more spacious feel while holding on to the character that's drawn locals and visitors for years.

The eight-week refurbishment, backed by brewer Hall & Woodhouse and operator Barr & Barr's Hospitality, has opened the place up with a more contemporary layout and a dedicated dining area, lifting the pub's capacity by a third. The work has also kept the building's history firmly on show, with 17th-century timber beams, a historic fireplace and sections of 19th-century ceiling all preserved.


On the food front, the pub is bringing back Barr & Barr's popular smokehouse menu, with meats slow-cooked at the group's West Sussex facility. There's plenty going on beyond the bar too, with a calendar of community events planned, from classic car meets and tractor runs to steam shows and the Dorset Chopper Show.

Sitting on the A352 close to Lulworth Cove and Corfe Castle, the Red Lion makes a handy stop for a day out on the coast. It's open seven days a week, with breakfast served from 8am daily and food until 9pm Monday to Saturday and 8pm on Sundays. Five guest bedrooms are also due a £15,000 refresh soon.
redlionwinfrith.com