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4.0

Based on 925 opinions finded in 3 websites

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Nº 243 in 387 in Ashford

Nº 56 of 88 British in Ashford

CUSTOMERS TALK ABOUT DISHES WITH..saladsteakchickencookedcheesemusthampuddingfishcodvegetablesroastlambpiemeatoldbeautiful

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Jandy. (Joe & Andy) are the best Barmans in the black lion!! Great service, fun, professional. Would highly recommend. The roast potatoes are top notch

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Jadd keulemans . 2024-11-23

MORE AT Google

Had an absolutely lovely meal, very accommodating kitchen for my partner who is lactose and gluten intolerant. Lovely staff, welcoming locals. Comfortable little fire place we sat in after our meal. Honestly one of the best pub experiences I've had for many years. An absolute hidden gem.

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Mo Jo . 2024-11-23

MORE AT Google

Welcoming, warm pub wit friendly efficient staff. We enjoyed having choice of vegetarian/vegan dishes and the tomato and goats cheese bread and butter pudding was deliciously different to usual offerings. The sausages and mash went down well too. We didn't have room for a sweet, but the sorbet nearly tempted. The Irish coffee and Latte were instead good finishers.

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Val H . 2024-11-17

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Stopped here after being out from Hastings around Rye and Dungeness we came across this lovely Pub. Staff were very helpful as mother in law (99) and in a wheelchair were able to give us a table. The Sunday menu of Vegetarian Wellington, Swordfish, and Lamb Roast were very well laid out meals and very, very tasty. Thanks to all staff for a wonderful service and lovely time

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Dave Warren . 2024-11-17

MORE AT Google

Popped in for a bite to eat Thursday lunch time. Served by a lovely young man who was so helpful and made us laugh. Had pork belly and sausage mash. The food was nice. fresh and delicious . Menu had a nice range of food to choose from. Nice selection of beers and wines. It was nice and clean too. The fire was going if you haven’t been I’d highly recommend it Well done

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katie frankie . 2024-11-15

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Chanced a visit to this pleasant country pub, as were in the area. We’d visited a couple of times before, and generally very satisfied with the quality of food… this time was no exception, but found the staff/owners particularly charming & cheerful. The bonus being, that my partner’s sister-in-law could bring her dogs in , and we were seated suitably. Food was very tasty, particularly recommend the steak & ale pie & haddock dishes ( though these possibly change time to time , so not always available) The chips could have been cooked a bit more, if I had any criticism… but my partner had fries which looked about right , so I’ll order those next time. Another one to return to

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Mark G . 2024-11-09

MORE AT TripAdvisor

My second visit was to try the Sunday roast. It was lovely and did not disappoint. Absolutely recommend. First visit was a week day meal.and again was lovely. Very friendly pub and nice atmosphere.

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Leigh G . 2024-11-01

MORE AT Google

Visited the Black lion on Saturday afternoon having booked a table for 2. We received a warm welcome on arrival and everyone we had contact with throughout our meal was friendly. I ordered a vegetarian dish the goats cheese bread and butter pudding, which was certainly one of the best veggie meals I’ve ever had, not the usual veggie nut roast that is offered by so many places. My husband had the haddock and chips which he throughly enjoyed and he stated that his pint of beer was the best he had drunk for years. We ordered puddings which were the same excellent presentation and taste. Overall I would give the Black lion 10/10 for service, great staff,food presentation and quality, and of course great beer. We will certainly be visiting again

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Nessa . 2024-10-27

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Top quality Sunday lunch with excellent meat cuts, a nice and interesting range of vegetables, and all at a very reasonable price. Highly recommended.

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Nathaniel Wrey . 2024-10-21

MORE AT Google

It's very rare that you can go somewhere for a meal and it is as satisfying as this. Good sized portions, reasonable prices and great service. Nothing fancy just really good quality pub grub, exactly the way it should be. Welcoming, clean and a nice atmosphere. 10/10 would definitely return and recommend

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bettyblue79 . 2024-10-20

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Stopped to have a light lunch and a drink. The pub is clean and bright, the staff are amazing, cannot do enough to help. Food is super, fresh, large portions and well presented. Looking forward to returning very soon.

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David & Frances . 2024-10-20

MORE AT TripAdvisor

We visited The Black Lion as we'd spotted it the day before on our weekend away to Rye. Sadly, we've had to cut our visit short, so hoped we'd be able to have a late lunch on our way home to Surrey today. The Black Lion did not disappoint. From the cheery welcome when we arrived with our two dogs, to the friendly and welcoming atmosphere from the owners, staff and locals alike. It's a lovely pub and the food is on a very high level. This is definitely not your average pub grub, but is reasonably priced at the same time. The menu is more varied from your average pub menu with something for everyone and gastro standard. We had the Baked mussels & prawns as a starter, (although we shared one and our only thought is that it would have been good with a chunk of French bread instead of the cheese straw as we could have soaked up more of the delicious sauce). Then the Lamb and Mint pie of the day which was immense. My husband had a special of Cajun fish and risotto which he loved. And the pie even came with a pastry lion, which I felt I had to share with our dogs. But it was a bit of a tug of war between me and them to be honest! But thank you all, it was lovely and when we are back in the ares we will be sure to return. Definitely recommend to anyone in the Rye area. Dog and child friendly. Looks like it has live music too.

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SirTravelalot . 2024-10-19

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Such a picturesque pub in the beautiful quiet village of Appledore, first impressions were spot on as we were greeted with a spacious (newly painted) FRONT BEER GARDEN (no shortage on umbrellas). Lovely view of the area, modern/ quaint laid out Dining area, traditional features inside and out (which a lot of pubs have lost or modernised to adjust to society). The signage and lion features add to the touch of being The Black Lion, wall features such as the pub history framed, paintings, bottle display feature, piano and OPEN FIRE WITH LOGS, ready for those cold winter days. Quirky little extra, a games table that fits right into the almost homely feel the pub gives. Welcoming staff, that really do make what you would call “A GREAT BRITISH PUB” down to earth, not a rushed atmosphere (normally pubs want to take your order 2mins after you’ve been given a menu, give 4 check backs as if you should wear your food, then run away with your plates before the rest of the table is finished like its brands hatch) This pub however, we’re asked allergens, given the options on pie/fish and soup of the day. Given the best recommendations (they also have STEAK TUESDAYS… I know right) also a specials menu, quite a delectable array of beautifully presented, pub grub at an affordable price. (The lion iron branding stamp added that little bit extra to the burger bun) (Not forgetting the traditional Sunday roast). PS lovely range of COCKTAILS. Nice selection of lagers, ale and of course GUINNESS. each table also has a mini notice board with events to come QUIZ NIGHTS, LIVE MUSIC etc. ‘S’ had the BUTTERMILK CHICKEN BURGER - “wholesome fried CRISPY chicken, skinny fries & RICH house slaw, cleared plate need I say more”. ‘D’ had the RIB EYE - medium with garlic butter - “unreal steak CRISPY wedges almost like roasties FLAVOURSOME, bloody lovely”. ‘S’ had the SIRLOIN - rare with peppercorn sauce - “first time having a rare, TENDER, SUCCULENT knife sliced right through, one of the best steaks”. Got to meet the chef to thank him for exquisite food and what is now our second outing here and may I say most definitely not the last. Welcoming service. THANK YOU TO THE TEAM ! and to re quote Arnie - “we’ll be back!”.

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The Secret Diners . 2024-09-19

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Great home cooked meals. Loved the Chicken and ham pie of the day. Friendly staff , great experience and will return.

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Phil Drew . 2024-09-15

MORE AT Google

I am gluten free and they went above and beyond to provide me with a gluten free fish and chips with as much help in providing a meal to suit my circumstances as it was possible to give.

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BARBARA B . 2024-09-13

MORE AT Google

What a lovely pub in a beautiful village setting. Ideal for a Saturday evening anniversary meal? - No! - found out only after ordering food following booking earlier in the day that one of the chefs was not there, and there would be a wait. Then halfway through the meal had to choose an alternative option as poached haddock not available. Added to which the Saturday evening company in the bar were "effing and blinding" which isn't the atmosphere I appreciate. Really felt a bit sorry for the staff when I explained that although I'm fairly local, that I probably won't be going back. I did however appreciate their attempt to temper the long wait for food with a complimentary drink. Didn't bother with dessert as basically couldn't wait to get out. It might have been helpful if the staff had informed us about the kitchen situation before we sat down, as it would have allowed us to find an alternative pub in the area. Was better during a lunchtime visit earlier in the year. But I'm not sure I'll go back for another go.

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Michael Lucioni . 2024-09-07

MORE AT Google

Lovely lunch today with friends sitting outside in the last of the summer sun - delicious food and great customer service from the young chef . Will definitely be back soon :)

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michelle Waters . 2024-09-03

MORE AT Google

Only skipped rating the food because I didn't eat.. hubby and I will be back to tick this box as the food we saw coming out looked lush! Staff are so lovely, pub is gorgeous, outside seating is perfect and the overall atmosphere is fantastic - this is what a real pub should be!

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Rachel Croft-Golding . 2024-09-02

MORE AT Google

Absolutely spot on. Had starters and main.. fantastic fish dishes. Lovely staff and a great experience. Would highly recommend 🥰 Brad was lovely 😁

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Jo E . 2024-08-31

MORE AT TripAdvisor

An amazing Kentish Gem! If you're looking for a excellent food, ambiance and hospitality The Black Lion Appledore does NOT disappoint definitely worth a destination visit.

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Juanita Alonso . 2024-08-28

MORE AT Google

Wow! What have they done to this place? It used to have a wonderful atmosphere. A real old feel but warm welcoming pub. Now it looks like it’s been stocked up with furniture from Dunelm. Great if that’s your thing but not if you want a cosy pint. I don’t mean to slag off the new owners, but it breaks my heart when people rip out what makes something special.

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Tom Leighton . 2024-08-25

MORE AT Google

Lovely, spotlessly clean pub in a stunning village location. Happy, friendly, helpful and courteous staff. Great place to visit with a nice, cosy and friendly atmosphere. First class service right across the board with lovely food. Plenty of outdoor seating with stunning views and surroundings. Would highly recommend to anyone.

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Steve Toombs . 2024-08-13

MORE AT Google

What a great pub! Fantastic food and service. I couldn’t recommend it enough. Our server Joe was amazing. I can’t wait to come back! Thanks to Joe and the team 😁

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Sally W . 2024-08-09

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Lovely fish&chips of The day and lambpie, together with good service made the meal a realy nice afternoon. I would love to come back. But living in Norway can be a litle difficult.

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Ragnhild D . 2024-08-02

MORE AT TripAdvisor

We were disappointed that a nearby tea-room was closed, but the proprietors recommended the Black Lion. The three of us were warmly welcomed, made to feel that our request for two cups of tea and an ice-cream was certainly in order. Then two pots of tea and a large three-flavoured ice-cream in an elegant glass appeared. Satisfaction was obvious and the bill of just £11 was a pleasant surprise. We shall be back for other dishes when next in the area.

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John H . 2024-07-22

MORE AT TripAdvisor

We had such a lovely lunch today,the service was great the food was excellent. A very welcoming venue and spotlessly clean thank you x

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Jen Drew . 2024-07-17

MORE AT Google

Amazing food, great service, and a brilliant atmosphere. We attended the D day celebrations, and is definitely worth a visit.

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Hannah V (H) . 2024-07-02

MORE AT Google

On a sunny day four of us met up for a leisurely lunch We hadn't visited this pub fot many years but good reviews led us back We sat outside and perused the menus. We had a main menu, a specials menu and a Bench menu (lighter bites). The service was exceptional. The good was super and portion sizes were good ,( I hate oversized dishes where I struggle to finish but these were just right). And room for a dessert.. The chips were superb. Moist and fluffy inside and full of flavour we had the steak.pie. fish and chips, caesar salad and a lighter salad dish too. Then some lovely desserts. The semi freddo was perfect and not often seen on.menus We were there for three hours with no rush. We understand that the team were fairly new and we wish them success Just keep doing the same things.

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Elaine D . 2024-06-29

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Amazing location, great food, the Black Lion burger and the Ploughman's lunch were both superb. The staff were friendly and the pub is beautiful. Thank you!

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Matt . 2024-06-26

MORE AT TripAdvisor

I am, I will admit, rather fussy when it comes to food, but oh my goodness there was nothing I could fault about the food here. It was fresh, hot, and so tasty and savoury, just a joy to eat and to my husbands amazement I actually cleared my plate. That pie will never be beaten for me...sorry mum! My husband also absolutely loved his vegetarian option, which was also fresh, hot and yummy, honestly the best meal out I've had in many years, we will be back! The staff were lovely, the atmosphere was fabulous and the toilets were spotless with supplies in the ladies which could be much appreciated! Honestly could not recommend it more.

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Melanie “Meli” Austin . 2024-06-25

MORE AT Google

Excellent pub ,excellent management, thank you.

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Marshall Trigwell . 2024-06-19

MORE AT Google

We had a fantastic dinner at the black lion in Appledoor. We started with some nachos which were delicious and great to share. They were proper authentic nachos made with real fried tortillas. I followed it with the burger which was really tasty and great value since it could have fed two. My partner had the fish and chips and felt said the fish was delicious and perfectly cooked and the chips likewise. No desert as was stuffed but a good list of options available. Also worth noting was that my Guinness was poured perfectly.

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James Arram . 2024-06-01

MORE AT Google

Went for a meal while away on holiday with my family. The food was amazing, I had the chicken and leak pie it was delicious! Other members of my family had the club sandwich and the duo of lamb which was also amazing. The Chocolate Torte and Banoffee sticky toffee pudding was lovely too. The staff were very friendly and attentive, would highly recommended anyone to visit!

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Tracey . 2024-05-30

MORE AT Google

Really good food and friendly service.

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M Scott . 2024-05-27

MORE AT Google

Super welcome and great Bank Holiday Americana menu

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Michael Bushell . 2024-05-26

MORE AT Google

Loved it, kids and dog friendly

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Fer. . 2024-05-20

MORE AT Google

Nice food but a little pricey for what it was. Service is a real disappointment though & having to ask where to order and how to be served is very odd. It could be so much better with a little more customer care.

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Patrick James Stephens . 2024-05-10

MORE AT Google

Excellent meal and friendly staff will be back

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Malcolm Ede . 2024-04-29

MORE AT Google

A proper friendly village pub. Did not try the food as had dog with us but it smelt amazing. Will be back.

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Tracey Lincoln . 2024-04-28

MORE AT Google

Outstanding character village pub that oozes charm and set in the heart of lovely Appledore village. Bradley our host is a genuinely warm , who instant made us welcome. Our Sunday roast lunch was beautifully cooked and comes with the usual trimmings. If like me you choose the mega roast ( choice of three from four roast meats) , do make sure you arrive for lunch starving! My choice of chicken/ lamb / beef was hugely generous so be prepared to leave with a doggy bag! Excellent value for money Sunday roast lunch, lovely old pub in a charming Kent village, friendly staff, nice choice of ales/ wines, this free house pub has everything to wish for and more. We shall be back for sure!

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Trevor Castelino . 2024-04-21

MORE AT Google

Sunday lunch. The pub was lively which was great to see. Service was excellent once it got going. The moules mariniere were the best I have had. Even better than in France. The fish was really excellent too. The gammon was a little dry & the cauliflower cheese needed a stronger cheddar or maybe some mustard. Although not quite perfect it was a really excellent lunch

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Stephen Duckworth . 2024-04-21

MORE AT Google

Has been renovated since my last visit. Traditional, and stylish. The new menu has good vegetarian options, and the food was well presented and tasted great. The staff were helpful and friendly. Perfect place for a meal, or a cosy evening drink.

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Pippa Harston . 2024-03-10

MORE AT Google

Well what more can I say apart from what a wonderful mother’s day lunch. The pub was so, so busy and the service and food continued to be amazing. Thank you the Black Lion, Appledore

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JJTI Ramsden . 2024-03-10

MORE AT Google

The Sunday roasts are the best 7 different vegetable huge home made Yorkshire large portions meat is great !

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Deborah Read-cooper . 2024-02-19

MORE AT Google

Only popped in for a drink so can't comment on food. It was quiet when we were there. Lovely pub in a small village.

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Lesley Loughney . 2024-02-15

MORE AT Google

This had been a review that I have been wanting to write for a while, but never got around to it, but after yesterday’s Sunday lunch I couldn’t forget anymore!! We have been attending the black lion since July when we moved to the village and found out that the local pub had been taken over by new landlords, and what a cracking job they have done so far! I’m a professional chef and been working in top restaurants and gastro pubs for the last 22 years and understand all the aspects of hospitality…and I have to say they made one of the best roast dinners I’ve had in a very long time! All the meats were cooked to perfection, alongside amazing array of veggies and fluffy crispy potatoes! Yorkshire puddings bigger than your fist, perfectly seasoned throughout and a tasty gravy to bring it all together! The landlords should be proud of what themselves and their team for what they have produced. This wasn’t a one time affair either….we have visited 3 times in the last couple months and has equally been as good each time and think we are becoming hooked 😂 I can’t speak for the rest of the menu as I haven’t seen it or tasted it, but if it’s as good as the roast, then you will be in for a treat! Brad and Natasha and the team are always very inviting and the atmosphere feels very relaxed, especially when the fires are roaring away! We will definitely be recommending this pub in the future to all our friends and local colleagues, and look forward to seeing this public house grow in the future as it deserves to.

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Anthony Coppard . 2024-02-12

MORE AT Google

Such a warm friendly and very accommodating pub. We were a party of nine on holiday with Dogs and they managed to fit us in for a late mid week lunch. With a wonderful menu selection and service with a smile. High praise to all the team and thank you to Natasha. We loved it so much we returned the next day. Highly recommended.

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Rachel Docherty . 2024-02-08

MORE AT Google

Outstanding food, fantastic service with a lovely atmosphere - will be back soon 😊

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The Platt . 2024-02-04

MORE AT Google

The food, drink and service here are wonderful. I’ve been a few times since the refurbishment and can’t fault it. I just wish I lived nearer!

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Red Stripe . 2024-01-14

MORE AT Google

THE BEST ROAST LOCALLY Absolutely superb - very hard to beat

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R E . 2023-12-29

MORE AT Google

The pub was absolutely heaving, but service to our table of four was timely, efficient and friendly, and the food was great, as was the wine choice. First rate.

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Robin Wood . 2023-12-28

MORE AT Google

Traveling home from a lovely long Boxing Day walk with some of the family down in Rye Harbour and felt pretty hungry and couldn't find anywhere near that was open to get food and drink. Just happened to be passing the Black Lion and there appeared to be lights on, we stopped and asked if they were serving food and if so, can bring our two dogs in? "yes" they replied, not a problem you can bring them in with you! They came to our table and took our order which is very helpful as most places these days ask for you to order at the bar, so that was very nice. The food came up very quickly and was absolutely delicious, portion sizes were excellent and the meals were beautifully presented, even the bun on the burger had the Black Lion branded into it. The service was impeccable and the staff were very friendly and helpful, service with a smile at all times, prices are very reasonable indeed. We will definitely be going back to the Black Lion in the very near future. 10 out of 10 in every aspect, highly recommended.

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Nik Brooks . 2023-12-26

MORE AT Google

Very pleasant. Went for a pint, stopped for a meal. Staff were very friendly and the food was great.

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Penny Hill . 2023-12-23

MORE AT Google

Disappointed yesterday. No fire lit, we didn’t have crackers on our small table and greeted with the news that fish and sausages were unavailable due to late deliveries. We had the last portion of the only vegetarian option on the Christmas menu. The beef dish was thin chewy strips of beef in a bland sauce served with rice and one vegetable. The gypsy tart was good although the profiteroles were tasteless. Also a lady started shouting and arguing with the young male waiter. Not a good atmosphere! Such a shame.

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susan le feuvre . 2023-12-13

MORE AT Google

Not the pub for people in a wheelchair - unable to push the wheel chair through the fixed picnic tables on the forecourt - man behind the bar grumbled because the front door was open whilst we tried to get the wheelchair and rolater in out of the rain! The food and the service were very good the young lady and young man who were serving were excellent - Food and drink was very reasonable and all in all my mothers 94th birthday lunch was great - first impression was not so good but got better😃

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Andrew Crouch . 2023-12-12

MORE AT Google

Pub good didn't have food but heard it's good food

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The Gov . 2023-12-07

MORE AT Google

Diabolical service - My wife and I went to the pub for the first time based on previous reviews. We ordered drinks and waited 30 minutes to have the order taken. The pint of IPA which I had was sour and I took it back. Whilst still waiting my wife ordered at he bar as the waitress did not come round. Some twenty mins later everyone who came in after us had all been served with their food. The manager came to our table and apologised for the delay and said all the food was being cooked from scratch. He also said we could leave if we wanted to. He gave us comments regarding his wife's health and a hospital visit. He also made comment regarding making sure the fire was not smoking as reasons for the lack of service. We did not get any food or finish our drinks or most importantly receive anything resembling good customer service. We are locals to this establishment and would never recommend them to anyone. In fact we would clearly state this is the worst pub in the area. Poor beer, poor food and very poor service. Mr & Mrs Hawthorne 16/11/2023

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Bill H . 2023-11-16

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Avery lovely welcome from the woman behind the bar and a nice ambience. Unfortunately we waited half and hour for 2 wraps (it wasn't busy) and they were not good. They were small, tasteless and not filling at all. A shame as everything else was nice.

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Anepicfoodie . 2023-11-01

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Found this love in the Summer. Great food, large portions and for a good price. Staff are friendly and attentive and lovely seating inside or out. A place i will definitely keep visiting!!

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Melissa Pemberton . 2023-10-20

MORE AT Google

Really like what they've done to the place, I was a regular with the past owners but it was nice to see their own touches

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Wesley Dadson . 2023-10-18

MORE AT Google

The roast dinners are so tasty, since the new owners have taken over we've been here for a roast dinner about 5 times! Definitely can recommend, value for money! The younger boy waiter is very good at his job so happy and knowing. The owners and other staff are so welcoming too, were be back very soon!

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holaengland . 2023-10-09

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Popped into the lion for what i thought would be a light lunch ,ordered the Korean chicken wings .and bulked out with chunky chips ,on reflection I didn't need the chips . Korean wings with a spicy sticky sauce and was a much larger portion then I expected,as were the skin on chunky fries .portion size are more then decent and certainly well cooked and presented well ,the real ales I sampled were good and the coffee afterwards of reasonable strength without overt bitterness.. Words of advice make sure you have a finger bowl if ordering the wings and be prepared for a trip to the immaculate restroom,to wash hands .

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Stu R . 2023-10-03

MORE AT TripAdvisor

We booked a large table in the side garden, meals were superb, service was exemplary. Staff are so friendly and helpful. Totally recommend. Place was busy and lovely atmosphere. Well done Black lion team!

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Isobel N . 2023-10-01

MORE AT TripAdvisor

We have a lovely roast in the pub today, we will definitely go back for another.

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Helen Downing-waite . 2023-10-01

MORE AT Google

Have known this pub for 25 years and this was my first chance to visit since its refurbishment and my word it does not let you down. The food is great and the choice is well spread, so is the beer and the vine. Excellent value for money we left stuffed with a smile on our faces very friendly with good service.

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Alan Hepworth . 2023-09-30

MORE AT Google

Beautiful pub friendly staff a warm welcome gorgeous food will be back .. was a lovely drive from Canterbury

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Lady wendy howard . 2023-09-30

MORE AT Google

A friendly pub in a lovely location , good food choices- from fish & chips ( which I had ) to ploughman’s & other usual pub fare. Young man behind the bar was very helpful.. tried hard to push the special from the board, which none of us was that bothered with. He even ran up the local store to get mustard which someone on our table asked for… that’s service! Recommended if in the area , but for me not ‘wow ! ‘ but ample. We will return, however

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markgT6466SK . 2023-09-28

MORE AT TripAdvisor

One of the best "posh" pub meals we've had in a long time. The food is well presented and was really good. Service was friendly and accommodated our requests for slight changes. It was nice to see a village pub busy with drinks

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The Country Cottage Gardener . 2023-09-22

MORE AT Google

Game, bacon and fig pudding, steak & Stilton pie, Thai curry, Lamb burger - all rated v good by table of 4. Good value, attentive service - definitely re-visit. Ps we booked - just as well - busy for a Tuesday night.

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Coastal38226596875 . 2023-09-20

MORE AT TripAdvisor

It was our first visit to the Black Lion in Appledore and we were not disappointed. The decor was modern but there still kept the charm of a village pub. The service was great and our Sunday lunch was exceptional. It had a great atmosphere and we will definitely be returning.

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Sharon Campbell . 2023-09-17

MORE AT Google

Great meal and lovely staff, wish them all the success. Lovely to have a good local pub. Hope people will support new owners as trying so hard to please.

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Pamela S . 2023-09-16

MORE AT TripAdvisor

This pub I would say is the nicest I've ever been too, I frequently visit when I come through the area. A beautiful lineup of draught lager was the first thing that caught my eye, the Stella is like no other. Kind and caring staff always greet you with a smile,and to the tune of soothing music playing in the background. This pub is situated in Appledore and I must say it is the most picturesque village I have ever visited, this accompanied by the outstanding beauty and traditional style of the pub make it a pleasure to visit. When I'm here it gives me connotations of Valhalla and if there was an afterlife any viking who died by the sword would feel like an accomplished warrior if they ended up in the Black Lion Pub. I also recently dabbled in the food that they have to offer, albeit just a portion of dirty fries they were the best chips I had ever tried, the way a simple dish was constructed in such a fresh but cheesy, and also spicy way was truly dirty. I look forward to seeing what more this pub has to offer, I'm yet to visit the evening however I've had glimpses of what it has to offer with friendly locals and often different types of entertainment and I can say I'm keen to get down here more often. I travel over an hour to visit this pub which I would like to think is a testament as to how good it is. Simply outstanding

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X3615DGmaxs . 2023-09-13

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Yet another very enjoyable lunch at The Black Lion today. Staff were very friendly and attentive and the food was excellent.

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Lesley W . 2023-09-09

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Long wait for dirty chips, some hot some cold. Korean chicken also not good with just some sauce poured over. Bread board was okay though. Total lack of service. Complained when paying and was told that what everyone else gets.

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Ruth Morris . 2023-09-07

MORE AT Google

Wish I could award 6 stars!...Visited twice approx 4 weeks ago and wanted to ensure that after passing of time my opinion / recommendation remained the same. On both visits staff were welcoming and attentive without being introsive. Relaxed atmosphere...welcoming staff...sensible prices... Furniture and fittings well suited to this village pub... which you've probably guessed is high on my list of preferred watering holes. I wish owner and staff well ( they deserve it!)

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Brian Rain . 2023-09-06

MORE AT Google

The look of the venu has definitely improved, but that's about it. The menu is all over the place, and the special fish plater I had was diabolical. The Ceasar salad leaves were dirty, nachos (4 dorito crisps), and bought in dips, tastless.

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Fredi Inglish . 2023-08-29

MORE AT Google

Lovely pub and staff, fantastic location.

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Mick Hall . 2023-08-27

MORE AT Google

We had a lovely meal and the service was excellent.

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Michael White . 2023-08-27

MORE AT Google

A beautiful pub where you will find a selection of superb food to suit all tastes. I actually cannot rate this pub highly enough. So much so that I had to tell the landlord and landlady, who I might add are so welcoming, and that has NEVER happened before. All the staff are lovely and so attentive, the food is amazing, spotlessly clean throughout and I have to say that the toilets are also gorgeous with all the little touches so guests have everything they may need. If you haven’t been there yet you need to go.

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Laura B . 2023-08-26

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Lovely food, great atmosphere, efficient and friendly staff. Landlord and landlady also lovely and nothing is too much trouble. A little jewel we stumbled upon by accident that we will definitely return too next time we are here. Sadly we do not live locally as i would love this as my local. Highly recommend

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Mark B . 2023-08-26

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My Mother in-law took us here for Sunday dinner . Joe who served us was amazing great customer service he gave us recommendations and his choices were fantastic . The staff here were so friendly . Very clean and wonderful atmosphere. Prices were bang on you get what you pay for. Portions are amazing!. Thank you to all at the Black Lion for a wonderful experience. Appledor Is a wonderful village . A must see

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Ros Perriman . 2023-08-22

MORE AT Google

First time back in Black Lion since it has been reopened. We called in for Sunday lunch as it was so hot we didn’t really want a roast, I asked was it possible to have a ploughman’s the young lad serving said he would go and check he came back and said no problem the chef would do it, three of our party had ploughman’s and one had mussels. The food was very good the service was great. We will definitely be back for a roast when the weather cools down as the roasts they bought out for other dinners looked really good. If it carries on like this I think the new owners are definitely on to a winner. Also they are dog friendly which is always a bonus.

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Mandy “Mandymoonbeam” Mountford . 2023-08-20

MORE AT Google

Service was slow for a empty restaurant. Steak was awful, thin , just a piece of meat really. Wasn't sirloin, wasn't ribeye.. must have been rump..possibly..coldlump of tomatoes sat on a small undercooked mushroom and a small ,sad pile of ricket.. Gammon was very thin and the egg was overcooked, pineapple was burnt. All dishes supposed to have chips were served with small wedges not even up to aunt Bessie's standard. Not a chip in sight...won't be returning.

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494beverleyg . 2023-08-20

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Did not like wasps out side so had to go inside but very nice

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Maureen Brooks . 2023-08-18

MORE AT Google

A lovely pub. The service from the young man who waited our table was excellent. Friendly and helpful. Food was tasty. Will be back.

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Simon Webster . 2023-08-15

MORE AT Google

Sadly it’s not the same quality of food as it used to be and one of our party was served undercooked meat pudding it was cold inside, I presume it was frozen so had to return it. Fish and chips they are not chips but potato wedges and no peas or side salad. The service is a bit hit and miss no salt and pepper on the table, nonfat served in a jug all as I say hit and miss, no one asks if you want more drinks or desert. I will wait to see if things improve before returning.

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nicolac531 . 2023-08-14

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Lovely food in a fantastic pub, with a very pretty outside dinning area. welcomed immediately by super friendly staff that also made our dog very welcome. Lovely feel and atmosphere. We go out regularly for Sunday lunch and this is by far one of our favourites.

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sharron h . 2023-08-14

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Fabulous lunch in a beautifully restored country pub. Food and service was first class. Spotlessly clean ans very welcoming. Looking forward to a return visit

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AMP13967 . 2023-08-12

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Lovely stop off on way to Rye! Had a lovely bagatte in the black lion. Great service an welcoming place

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Lynn Sells . 2023-08-12

MORE AT Google

Wow!! Great Pub!! Food and drinks were great!! Staff was amazing, helpful, and polite. Patrons were fun and friendly. Definitely worth the stop!!

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Todd Schurig . 2023-08-09

MORE AT Google

Myself and my family visit the Black Lion regularly. It is a lovely village pub and a key asset to the village of Appledore. It has recently come under new management and I think it would be fair to say that time is needed to...

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Little_Miss_Hoggle . 2023-08-08

MORE AT TripAdvisor

very dark not a fan #bringbackrayandsandra xxoxoxox

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Oliver Solly . 2023-08-08

MORE AT Google

I went in last saturday hoping for a good meal when i received late service with over an hours wait (when the pub wasn’t busy), and when i did get my food, the quality was poor and the food wasn’t nice. Was also very over...

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Daisy V . 2023-08-07

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I came in sunday just gone to have a Sunday Roast with my wife, i ordered the pork and the portion size was not worth the money, it’s over priced and way too chewy, my wife ordered the same and thought the gravy was too...

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Isaac S . 2023-08-07

MORE AT TripAdvisor

We booked in for Sunday lunch, we were note disappointed. Excellent service, prompt and friendly. Food was very good. Thank you , and they took cash!

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angela tinkler . 2023-08-02

MORE AT Google

I came here for dinner with a friend. Service was impeccable, great atmosphere and beautifully decorated. Will definitely be visiting again!

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Chloe B . 2023-08-01

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Excellent food, the burger was delicious. Good selection of drinks and the service was top notch. Great atmosphere - had a blast.

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James A . 2023-08-01

MORE AT TripAdvisor

The Black Lion is a great pub that acts as the social centre of the village of Appledore and attracts people on a day out as well. The new owners have put a lot of effort in to making it a welcoming place and continue...

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Marcus W . 2023-07-31

MORE AT TripAdvisor

This was my first time coming back since the new owners had taken over, and I can’t say I’ll be going back. Although it was lovely to see familiar staff working with a few new faces, the atmosphere was dire and so silent. The sheer...

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K W . 2023-07-31

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Excellent food and lovely staff.

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Chris Thomson . 2023-07-30

MORE AT Google

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