The Old Lion in Rugby

My partner and I visited the old lion for the first time since it has been taken over and refurbished, and I can say it was worth us waiting!! The decor is beautiful and exactly what the pub needed! It feels so open and inviting. The staff are all so so friendly! I didn’t get the name of our server but he was so lovely! He was attentive but not to attentive that it was intrusive! The food was out of this world! So flavourful and good portions too!. I myself had a lamb shank curry which I requested that the spice was adjusted to my acquired needs ( I don’t do spice very well) but the waiter so understanding of that and made a note of it and I can confirm it was Devine!! The meat fell off the bone and was just so tasty I’ve been craving it ever since!! 🙈 My panther had the tandoori chicken and chips which again was so tasty and full of flavour and not dry in the slightest! We had a sharing sizzler starter, which was nice and everything was cooked fresh but in my opinion not worth the £16 for what you get on it! I have recommended the old lion to soo many people I know and we will definitely be back for another visit soon !!

Totally overpriced, small portions and not very attentive or professional service. Bench seating uncomfortable and toilets need an upgrade. Staff need training on menu and to be more aware of bar offerings. Could be a success if more attention given to offering better value for money and include other non curry or non spicy items that are more healthy than fish and chips and pizza.

First time we visited since it reopened. We received a very warm welcome. The selection of beers wines and spirits was excellent. Really lovely surroundings. Excellent atmosphere. Bar staff were very friendly. We were so impressed by what we saw and what was on the menu that we booked to eat there next week. The food that was coming out looked amazing. Exciting times at the “New” Old Lion.

Haveing seen 3 owners of the old lion we are regular customers this was our first time with new owners first thought it was so busy the bar took 10 min there was a wedding going on so that can be understood bar staff very pleasant the decor was different not sure village pub comes to mind but wasn’t unpleasant seated in a quiet spot then the menu was a bit thrown at first couldn’t decide if wanted a curry or fish & chips opted for king prawn curry was quite expensive husband disappointed no fillet steak he had another type which he found very rich overall food was lovely service was spot on then i went to bathroom ladies what a let down not sure if it even painted the old little notice on back wall something about only poo in this loo which I found tacky before renovation to be honest think we will be back again in a few weeks just to satisfy ourselves village pub does not come to mind but a welcome change well done for excellent service

This is the second time we have been since the Old Lion has reopened. This restaurant has been taken over from the owner at The George at Kilsby. It’s Fantastic, Service great, Food lovely, tasty and great choices. There is a great choice on Indian choices and also English. Large selection on Vegsn choices. The atmosphere was lovely, really nice refurbishment. I would strongly recommend you try.. Lovely evening out!!

What an extraordinarily wonderful place! We went as a family of three on Sunday, to sample their Sunday lunches; to say we were thrilled to bits, is an understatement. We had originally booked at their highly acclaimed pub/restaurant in Kilsby, but once we'd heard the new place in Harborough Magna (which is where we live) was under the same management as The George, we swapped venues. The place, I believe, is under new management, and the refurbishments are absolutely lovely. The interior has beautiful wallpaper and panelling to the walls - and the lavatories along with the rest of the Restaurant are immaculately clean and fragrant. The staff could not have been more helpful, and exceeded our expectations in every way. All three of us had the Sunday lunch, we chose the chicken, the pork, and I had the beef. I always feel that Sunday lunches are a deceptively complex meal to succeed at, without the food resulting in a 'school dinner' type of affair, so I think it rather puts a restaurant to the test. The portion sizes were large enough to leave us absolutely NO room for pudding, and my mother, who had the chicken, had to take a couple of things off her plate and put them on the side plate, to enable her to reach the rest of her meal! The beef was as tender as fillet steak, and the gravy was outstanding. The roast potatoes too, were exceptional, helped by cooking them in beef dripping. Along with our meal came flawlessly cooked vegetables, stuffing, a chipolata sausage and we had cauliflower cheese too. All in all, it was genuinely the best Sunday lunch I've had at any restaurant, and easily matched the best made at home. We have a new favourite place and I cannot wait to get back next Sunday.

Very good food and service (if a little chaotic), sadly let down by miniscule portions. Overpriced and not good value for money. My dish must have been made from the world's smallest chicken, even my son asked is that a starter? Drinks prices were exorbitant, so we didn't bother.

This delightful pub is under the same management as The George in Kilsby. The interior has had a total refurb and is stunning and warm. Menu is a good mix of Indian and British classics. I had the lamb shank biryani which was excellent. Plenty of staff and a full house, but if it stays this busy they will need a larger car park. They offered a 25% discount for the first week of reopening but it was not reflected on the bill and I had to ask for it. Bit sloppy! However, Hari and team have breathed new life into our favourite local pub and I look forward to visiting regularly in the future. Just a request, please get some IPA on tap for those of us who don’t like lager.

Place is amazing , warm ,friendly staff, clean , relaxing ,deco very nice The food hot,tasty,good value. Lovely place to chill and ewlax or have a bit of lunch

Under new management and we were impressed, our meals were fabulous, we had the chicken burger, fish & lamb curries and the steak pie, freshly cooked and of a high quality. Couldn’t fault it. We will be back.

What a banging gastropub! The food is absolutely stunning, I'm so impressed. The new owners have done such a great job revamping the menu, the atmosphere, and the experience. The staff are quick and attentive as well as very friendly. I implore you to give it a go, especially if you have been burnt by the old owners. I recommend the Kerulan Cornish Cod and Tiger Prawn curry.

Fabulous food, very attentive service will be going again

Just had a lovely Sunday dinner with my daughter food great staff lovely thank

The food was top quality with good portions and a sense of pride from the staff. I last visited here several months ago and was not aware of the management change. Good luck for the future we will be back again soon.

Not to put the previous management down (because they were very nice), but the new owners have really raised the quality of the cooking. A proper village pub that we can be proud of. Great place to have a drink as well.

Called off here on a long drive from the M1 (10mins away) for Sunday lunch, fabulous food and staff very welcoming, lovely country pub beautiful decor inside would highly recommend x

Everything was spot on The food was delicious and the atmosphere was so friendly! Definitely would recommend to a friend and will be returning Thank you!

Amazing food really good calamari was the best I've ever had steak was cooked perfectly . The owner was really friendly will definitely return again you must visit this pub

I booked a table for 18 people for our companies annual night out. Everyone commented on how good the food was and what a good night they had. Abey and his team looked after us very well from start to finish, so no doubt we will be returning again next year. We have now been here three times since the new owners took over, and it’s been top notch every time.

Friendly welcome and dog friendly. The Sunday roast was amazing.

Welcome to a cosy place for a fine evening meal. Friendly staff and we felt very well looked after. Excellent food and atmosphere.

So we used to go here years ago and it was great then it changed handed and went down hill ..but the people who run the George in Kilsby have taken it over! So it is a work in progress and we are so glad finally someone who knows what they are doing has taken the reins Firstly very nice people, good service Secondly the roast dinner is so nice, I think they forgot our greens but we didn't realise til the table next to us had some but we really didn't miss them. The gravy and the beef were to die for, really very good Two things need their attention, the veggie choices are rubbish! Only two, the roast was very good and my mum loved it but there is only one other choice and that is pasta. Who wants to eat pasta at a country pub!! It really really needs a deep clean!! The carpet in the dining room and ladies toilets are gross and the tables need sanding as they are rough after no tlc for some time! Two ladies sat behind us were moaning how dirty it was and said they nearly left but food came and it was lovely. Without a carpet cleaning I fear people won't give it a chance when it is going to be really good 👍

It is January 2024, and The Old Lion at Harborough Magna has reopened under new management. The team also run The George at Kilsby. What can I say, apart from its fantastic! The food and service is impeccable, great modern pub food, we ate every bit of it (honestly it’s so good) and loved chatting to the staff as well. Years ago this place used to thrive, they had a fabulous team who ran the pub, but then a not so great team took over and they lost a lot of customers. Knowing the George at Kilsby and how good that place is, we were thrilled to hear our beloved Old Lion was also going to get their special treatment. I believe there are big plans for the Old Lion, refurbs included, in the meantime you can smell how clean the place is as they’ve spruced it up and cleaned it, they are working to fix the real fires and their website is under construction too! The atmosphere is still lovely and they make you feel so welcome. Get yourselves there and support The Old Lion, great for lunch and dinner, it’s about time this lovely old place was brought back to life!

It is January 2024, and The Old Lion at Harborough Magna has reopened under new management. The team also run The George at Kilsby. What can I say, apart from its fantastic! The food and service is impeccable, great modern pub food, we ate every bit of it (honestly it’s so good) and loved chatting to the staff as well. Years ago this place used to thrive, they had a fabulous team who ran the pub, but then a not so great team took over and they lost a lot of customers. Knowing the George at Kilsby and how good that place is, we were thrilled to hear our beloved Old Lion was also going to get their special treatment. I believe there are big plans for the Old Lion, refurbs included, in the meantime you can smell how clean the place is as they’ve spruced it up and cleaned it, they are working to fix the real fires and their website is under construction too! The atmosphere is still lovely and they make you feel so welcome. Get yourselves there and support The Old Lion, great for lunch and dinner, it’s about time this lovely old place was brought back to life!

Four adult members of our family visited on a birthday trip for one of our members. We had the most pleasant experience imaginable. The hosts were really helpful and pleasant, the drinks excellent, and the food to die for. We cant really recommend the Old Lion enough. Our only regret is that I live nearly one hundred miles away which makes another visit more difficult. But you know what? We are sure going to try! Don't miss out.

This pub has new landlords, which it desperately needed. Very friendly and professional, obviously know what they are doing. Couldn't fault the food, would have enjoyed anything on the menu. Well stocked bar, would have liked another ale on tap though, everybody's taste is different. Would recommend to anybody, will definitely be returning. Thank you!

Great food and very hospitable. Highly recommended. Second visit in last two weeks and looking forward to returning for Sunday lunch.

Great food and friendly staff. I look forward to coming back.

First visit for a long time, under new management Lovely dinner.. Food and service was great, really friendly. Amazing dinner fresh food, Tasty.. we had, chicken Tikka, home made Soup, Seabass and butter chicken pie.. cheese and biscuits, Sticky toffee pudding.. really lovely.. we will be back. Same team as The George in Kilsby. Great meal highly recommend a visit!! Thank you!!

Friendly staff, food Amazing. Great flavours. Will definitely be back. Looking forward to trying the Sunday lunch next time.

Under new ownership- service and food absolutely fantastic Very welcoming staff - Abey & Neya Chef anooj delivered first class Sunday Lunch with flavours and quality you’d be hard to match. The Beef melted in your mouth - superb This has always been a lovely pub and we wish them every success

First time of visiting the Old lion in a while and now under a new owner - and we weren’t disappointed. A warm welcome from the team ABEY & Neya ( although heating wasn’t working so kept coats on ) But the service and especially the food was delicious. We had the Sunday roast & chose beef - it was amazing- melt in your mouth with so many flavours with the vegetables roast potatoes and the gravy. No room for dessert but the sticky toffee should be delicious. The times are different to advertised and they are open all day till 7 on a Sunday . Still closed Monday & Tuesday. Certainly worth a visit such a lovely pub wishing them every success x

At long last this pub has been taken over by someone who gives a damn. Although the pub is quiet at the moment because it’s only just re-opened, the food is excellent and in the next few months I think this is going to be a fantastic place to go.

Went for lunch on Saturday, Friendly owner and staff . Lovely and clean inside , a few changes inside but for the best. The food very tasty,hot and price good 👍. Would go again . Dogs are welcome but in bar area

Under new ownership from the George, Kilsby, and showing the same excellence which has made the George famous

The Old Lion has just been taken over and is now open! Food is amazing and staff are very friendly. Brilliant and worth a visit.

Great service, drinks are great

Food outstanding roast dinner to die for Friendly staff and dog friendly but let staff know beforehand that you are taking a dog

Brilliant place to go for a quiet meal and drinks Food was lovely and staff are very helpful friendly and polite

We went on Sunday for my husbands birthday. The pub looked lovely inside & cosy. But, as soon as my husband went to the bar & asked to set up a tab he was told abruptly, we don't do that here!! No cask ales either her attitude stank! We were served our meal poorly by a young lad who didn't seem to care! We were half way through our meals & my husband hadn't had his main course. He went to find a member of staff to enquire about his meal, he stood at the bar * the woman (licensee) told him to stand away from the bar! No apology for forgetting his meal! When his food did arrive it was cold & the beef was tough as old boots. He sent his meal back & told them to forget it it, he wasn't hungry now! All our meals were luke warm. The beef dreadful, the chicken dry! The mushroom starter & ice cream were good. My husband & mother complained to the boss!!! at the bar. We were only charged for our starters, dessert & drinks. We have never known anywhere where the staff & the management have been so abrupt, rude & who couldn't care less about their customers ever before. We will never return. I'm not surprised it was practically empty of customers!

This place could so easily be awesome. The incredible food and brilliant menu are enough reasons to visit. However, the service is so frustrating that I'm not sure we will again anytime soon. The front front of house team work hard but clearly had little to no training. The repeatedly walk in and out of the kitchen, not carrying anything, leaving our plates, and they are uncleared for 20 minutes. It was annoying as there were next to no tables, and we really wanted desserts. Surely every waiter is taught you never go in or out of the kitchen empty-handed? The manageress was no better and walked past our empty plates at least 5 times. We actually didn't see her do anything for the 2 hours we were there. We asked for recommendations on desserts to be told we don't know we haven't tried them and the table next to us asked what came on the roast dinner and were told roast dinner things, potatoes, vege and Yorkshire. Really, why would you not get the team to try the food as it naturally increases sales.

Booked a table for 5 Saturday night for my birthday. Upon arrival were told the fish was smoked haddock then it was changed by another member of staff to sea bass then when we tried to order sea bass were told it was not on menu it was smoked haddock. Following this confusion we ordered various choices and my sister had completely the wrong meal brought out and then had to eat hers separately as the correct order had to be cooked and the vegetables with this meal were then cold, taken away and just re heated. As the menu was limited 3 of us had ordered chicken burgers these were disgusting the chicken was tough and very unpleasant and although we had waited nearly an hour for the food it seemed to have been pre cooked and had been re heated. On 2 occasions I said the food was awe full and the waitress just apologised! We did not pay for my sisters meal due to the mix up bearing in mind this was the cheapest meal as it was a small meal so around £6 and to be honest there was no difference in quantity to the regular chicken burger meals we had at about £14 each. When the waitress collected the plates she could see we had only ate a few chips. The beer was also warm so we did not drink this again it was just an apology that we did not enjoy the meal. We have been to the restaurant a few times about 1 year ago and had a really nice time and meal but will not be making any future visits.

Whilst travelling in the area my and my parter booked our table with ease via the website. We arrived and was greeted by a very welcoming smile and warm atmosphere. We were taken to our table and presented our menus. Personally we found the menu to right up our street - this was the reason for booking our table here. We chose the paté, rack of lamb, pork belly followed by the creme brûlée and biscoff cheesecake. The food was absolutely amazing and cooked as well as presented very well. If there was anything to say was that we found our beers not quite as cold as desired, however we did put this down to being 32 degrees in the day so this could be the root cause. Even so, this was something so minor for what we found to be a lovely dining experience and would recommend to others as what you get is so much greater than the bill you get presented with prior departure.

Great menu with great vegan options, excellent food, brilliant service, all round excellent

Upon arrival a dead plant greeted you in the porch and the pub was just about as lively! We ordered drinks and there was very limited choice in the beer department and packs of dog food hid the pumps. I’m all for looking after dogs with a drink of water but not sure they need their own menu! Two steaks and a bottle of wine for £20 was our choice and the food was excellent. Fresh home made chips, gammon/steak cooked nicely and pineapple with gammon and tomato/mushroom with steak. For what a few peas cost it may have improved the presentation slightly as it looked a bit bland. Only about three more tables came in while we were there but the long and the short of it is the food was great, staff good, drink and presentation not so brilliant. I should say we called in a few months back for a drink and had a similar experience with lack of choice with beers (both times they should be delivered any day!) if the pub wants to entice locals in I think they need to improve the variety and availability of beers and concentrate on being a pub rather than attempting to be a restaurant that sells dog food and treats

Service not quick. But the food was excellent. Quality produce well cooked . But the beer was a let down.

Our first time in Old Lion. Sunday roast? Better than perfect. Great service and atmosphere. We will go back there soon. Lovely place

Hospitality? Unfortunately inhospitable! Arrived early for a drink before our dinner reservation (made online as nobody answers the phone!), which we enjoyed outside in the rain as our child was not allowed in the bar (it was empty but rules hey!) Draught lagers not available- no explanation why! We then decided to head indoors to be told we weren’t allowed to move the highchair to suit our child as it obstructed access to other tables (again we were the only people there, rules hey!) Needless to say we left without ordering food- we try to support local businesses but not if we are an inconvenience to them!

Food was OK. Expensive for what you get and really nothing special. The service is horrendous over 1 hour waighting between courses there were only 3 tables occupied and a very rude waitress who obviously doesn't want to be there. We won't be returning.

I have always loved The Old Lion however today I experienced the worst service. When we arrived we were greeted by a lady, I explained that I booked a table for my friend and I but forgot to add a high chair for my one year old. I couldn’t amend the booking and I tried to call the pub twice but there was no answer. She said they don’t answer the phone as all bookings are done online. She came across almost put out by the fact she had to find a high chair. She said we couldn’t sit where she had originally put us and we would have to wait. I haven’t ever felt like I couldn’t take my child to any pub/ restaurant until today. We left and I won’t be returning. Customer service was very poor this could have been handle a lot better.

Poor food, poor service, little or no toilet tissue in the loos, suggests poor management. Explained my critism and the reply was a half hearted apology.

We visited here for the first time on a Saturday evening, and wanted to give it a go as it is our local pub. The staff member that served us was quite abrupt throughout the evening, and was outright rude when I asked her when the mains would arrive (we waited an hour between finishing our starter and receiving our main). This simply isn’t acceptable when there were only 2 other tables with people on in the entire pub. It is a real shame as they not only have lost the trade from ourselves, but also lost the trade from my extended family- who were also disappointed and won’t be returning. I love to support local businesses, especially pubs due to it being a dying trade, but from visiting other pubs in the area- this was by far the worst I’ve been to in a long time.

Food was very nice and the service was friendly and efficient.

Such a shame. I’m a strong advocate and supporter of the on trade and spend what I can in pubs. On this occasion I’m sorry to post a negative review as I know the trade is suffering, but so are consumers and we deserve better. I asked for a pint of Guinness and was served a can - excellent in of itself, but not what I asked for. Our food order took the best part of an hour, despite being quiet. I can tolerate that as I know it’s hard to get staff. But what irked me was my son’s ‘meal’. Pizza and chips chosen from the ‘Smaller Appetites’ menu. The picture will explain everything. My steak was cold but adequate and our group’s other meals were ok. I asked for the pizza to be removed from the bill but the staff refused. And there went the tip. That would have been £10. The pizza cost £5. For a 6 inch frozen wafer of dough with bone dry topping, complimented with SEVEN chips. I’ll continue to support the trade, but unfortunately not the Old Lion in the foreseeable.

OK nothing special One of us received the wrong burger, no one was around to speak to. Finally a staff member arrived, we mentioned the issue but said it was no real issue but we would only expect to pay for the burgers had ( slightly less than the1 ordered) They did intact refund the entire burger.

The pub’s atmosphere was nice, they have a vegan menu, the food is too expensive for what it is(basic and small portions) we also had to wait for nearly an hour to get our food even though it was a very quiet day. FYI members of staff are leaving reviews here to give 5 star.

Poor Service, Luke warm meal. Vegetables all mixed up together including leaks - which I hate but very difficult to separate Would not return

Lovely waiters/waitresses who were very friendly and attentive. The pie and a pint for £15 was great, pie pastry was lovely and there was plenty of fillings not empty at all. Chips looked and tasted homemade and very fresh, the gravy was nice and thick as well. Nice atmosphere and a nice fireplace area as well 👍

We went with friends for Sunday lunch. Great food, excellent service and a lovely p,ace to be. Well done The Old Lion. We will be back soon.

Called in on spec 2 weeks ago on a Sunday. Helpful staff and lovely Sunday roast. However took friends on a Wednesday booked for 7pm . Waited 1hr our drinks and starter then another 45mins for main meal. The food was fine but an explanation of delay would have been appreciated .Disappointed

Fabulous Sunday dinner lovely restaurant great service pleasant and helpful staff will definitely be back

We had a really enjoyable lunch earlier this year (Feb 2023) and we were excited for the owners to take this destination venue to the next stage of its evolution. So imagine the disappointment when my wife and I returned to have lunch together on Friday 13th May on our 33rd wedding anniversary together. Oh dear. I know the hospitality sector is having a challenging time but guys, you can score some quick cheap wins here. On arrival no one to greet ys, not a show stopper but the place wasn't rammed us x2 and x4 others already dining, that was it. 'have you booked?' seemed a question that was redundant in the extreme but we politely confirmed we had and we're shown to our table. Lets start with the 'facilities', broken wc in Feb, same wc broken in May, rickety chairs, and a run around with the J Edgar and the Mr Sheen wouldn't hurt either. Pawel fell below his usual standards on this visit , he knows he did and doesn't need reminding and our concerns were reflected in the bill. I think we will leave the Old Lion to put some work into what is now a tired image. We will come back and have another go to see if any improve have been made later this year as we understand that occasionally we all have an off day but that shouldn't stop you from giving this place a go. You will hopefully not be too disappointed but please don't expect Michellin standard fare but I can really recommended the steak and the onion rings! This review is a positive one as we really want this place to succeed. Malcolm Clarke, Rugby, May 2023

The food was very good, fresh and very tasty. Was very quiet when we went, but was the King's Coronation and we were early. The server was polite and helpful. The building inside was also lovely, with the smell of a wood fire burning but couldn't see the fire where we were sat. Only gripe was that the grooves in the black table needed a good clean. The tan tables did not have this problem

Food was lovely we went on a very quite day the lady we saw was very nice and friendly can't find anything bad to say about the food or the staff. I had the salmon fish cakes and they were very nice I dont normally eat fish cakes. My partner had the pea soup and that was very good. The fish and chips was filling and wonderful. The only problem I had with the place was on the black tables in the groves they need to clean them better, as they wasn't very clean. Otherwise I would have given them a 5

Nearly hour and half for mains to come out. I had a veggie burger and the bun was a cheap seeded bun from that was so dry it fell apart. Not great :(

Went here yesterday for the first time and wanted to say a big thank you and to show some appreciation to the lady (sorry didn't get her name) that was served us last night. Even though she was VERY BUSY bless her she took time out to personlise a pudding for a anniversary surprise. Very friendly and chilled atmosphere. The food was delicious aswell.

The Old Lion has been transformed over the years by various owners. Today it's more restaurant than country pub. I remember it with a pool table which has now been replaced with sofas. There was only a couple of other customers when I dropped in for lunch. It doesn't seem to be the thriving and bustling pub that I once knew when I visited the Midlands in the past.

Very disappointing. We went for my mother in laws bday and it was underwhelming and the food was a disaster. The manager apologised admitting they hadn't provided the expected service and removed 3 meals from the bill. Although this was a kind gesture it didn't alter the fact that a birthday meal out had been ruined. I also didn't realise prior to booking it was a heavily dog friendly establishment, I think this point needs highlighting more to people wanting to book to eat.

Disappointing experience. Booked a table for four plus one child. Was seated promptly and drinks and food orders taken in good time. The server did not have enough knowledge to answer questions on the food and didn't offer to go and find out, but she was pleasant and warm in her approach. The pub is set up as a gastro type venue and their prices are higher to reflect this. Drinks were generally OK, but the Moretti lagers were flat. The food was average. Starters not too bad - generous helping of olives, and yet very small portion of pate. The ham, egg and chips was good quality and plentiful, but the belly pork overall portion size (the whole meal, not just the meat) was small. After the food had been delivered we received no further service. We had to try and catch the server's eye for further drinks order and the bill - never came to the table voluntarily to see if the food was OK, or if we needed anything. Lastly, the toilets were well under par. The men's toilet floor was covered in water, and the single cubicle was out of order so technically nowhere to go toilet for men. My partner said that the Ladies toilet was grubby and unserviced. I don't mind paying reasonable money for good food and a pleasant experience, but we did not feel that this venue met our expectations. The place has the potential to be really excellent without investing any money - it is just attention to detail and a bit of consistency in the food quality and portions.

Disappointing experience. Booked a table for four plus one child. Was seated promptly and drinks and food orders taken in good time. The server did not have enough knowledge to answer questions on the food and didn't offer to go and find out, but she was pleasant and warm in her approach. The pub is set up as a gastro type venue and their prices are higher to reflect this. Drinks were generally OK, but the Moretti lagers were flat. The food was average. Starters not too bad - generous helping of olives, and yet very small portion of pate. The ham, egg and chips was good quality and plentiful, but the belly pork overall portion size (the whole meal, not just the meat) was small. After the food had been delivered we received no further service. We had to try and catch the server's eye for further drinks order and the bill - never came to the table voluntarily to see if the food was OK, or if we needed anything. Lastly, the toilets were well under par. The men's toilet floor was covered in water, and the single cubicle was out of order so technically nowhere to go toilet for men. My partner said that the Ladies toilet was grubby and unserviced. I don't mind paying reasonable money for good food and a pleasant experience, but we did not feel that this venue met our expectations. The place has the potential to be really excellent without investing any money - it is just attention to detail and a bit of consistency in the food quality and portions.

It’s ok food is excellent but On the money

Wow what a let down for Sunday lunch, food bloody awful, service average , I wouldn't let myndog eat here

Went for a Sunday dinner, staff were lovely and polite, food was absolutely amazing. I had the pork dinner and it was scrumptious, only had to wait about 10 mins for food as well and it was piping out and very well presented

Went for Sunday lunch. The quality of the food was good but could have been hotter, a bit like the pub itself but understand with heating bills. I did have to tell the waitress that the toilets were an absolute disgrace. The corridor to the toilets and the toilets themselves need a damn good clean. The walls and skirting boards looked like they had not been cleaned post Covid. The staff were very professional (albeit service a snit slow). Would definitely recommend this place if it had a good clean. Would have given four stars if cleaner.

Pie and pint night - brilliant! The beef and ale pie was fantastic. Will definitely be back!

Absolute delicious food and great customer service

Realy nice place ..ambient quiet music..food was great not long to wait.slow cooked lamb.plenty of veggies I could actually taste..coffee was how it should be...my Dad was happy with the meal. He had the roast pork and crackling.10 out of 10

Sitting here having a lovely meal we have been looked after very well. The only issue was one group of people thought it was good to complain every ten mins stating they have been waiting for 2hrs for food when they brought extra people to the restaurant they booked the table for. They have harassed the staff every ten mins asking where food is even though they ordered at 6pm and it is currently 7.44pm and have had their starter and also have their food is on the table. Thank you for a lovely evening.

Great food, lovely server and good options available for vegetarians.

We went out for a birthday celebration here and the evening was the complete opposite of our expectations. We visited as a group, with some young children, at 5.30 yet it was past 7.30 by the time we were served our meals. We were not offered any additional drinks after the first round, and had to approach the staff several times to ask when food would be served. There was no communication from the staff to manage our expectations about delays, and we received no apology from the staff. The food was OK once served however the pizza served to our youngest was not fit for eating. My sister was very upset that the party was spoilt and I’m afraid that we could not recommend the Old Lion based on our experience.

Had a terrible night here for a 30th Birthday. We were a table of 10 for dinner on a Saturday evening and they were severely understaffed and mis-managed. We booked in at 5.30pm since there were two kids on the table and we wanted to ensure we ate and finished early. We ordered at 6-ish, didn’t get starters until 7pm, then didn’t get mains until 8pm. We asked after starters whether they could prioritise the kids, but they said all food was being cooked at the same time (we then found out they only had one waitress and two chefs being overlooked by one manager, with 30+ people dining). After waiting ages for food and not being looked after at all (no one checking in on us, late service etc. etc.) I complained to the manager and she said, and I quote, “well your mains are being served now, so I suggest you sit down and talk to me after your meal” then going on to criticise and blame us for not booking the table correctly (adding two kids onto a table of 8 incorrectly online). Obviously, this isn’t the correct way to handle the situation. There’s one striking thing that was missing the whole night: communication. Just talk to people and explain the situation. Take less bookings. If someone didn’t turn up for their shift on a busy Saturday night, say. But zero communication and no apology, forcing us - the customer - to confront the situation and ask for some money off, is not how it should’ve ended. I’ve been told it’s usually great here, but tonight was not the night and we won’t be returning. Apparently the manager has also been there for 5 years, but she clearly requires a refresh on how to manage a restaurant and people.

Had a terrible night here for a 30th Birthday. We were a table of 10 for dinner on a Saturday evening and they were severely understaffed and mis-managed. We booked in at 5.30pm since there were two kids on the table and we wanted to ensure we ate and finished early. We ordered at 6-ish, didn’t get starters until 7pm, then didn’t get mains until 8pm. We asked after starters whether they could prioritise the kids, but they said all food was being cooked at the same time (we then found out they only had one waitress and two chefs being overlooked by one manager, with 30+ people dining). After waiting ages for food and not being looked after at all (no one checking in on us, late service etc. etc.) I complained to the manager and she said, and I quote, “well your mains are being served now, so I suggest you sit down and talk to me after your meal” then going on to criticise and blame us for not booking the table correctly (adding two kids onto a table of 8 incorrectly online). Obviously, this isn’t the correct way to handle the situation. There’s one striking thing that was missing the whole night: communication. Just talk to people and explain the situation. Take less bookings. If someone didn’t turn up for their shift on a busy Saturday night, say. But zero communication and no apology, forcing us - the customer - to confront the situation and ask for some money off, is not how it should’ve ended. I’ve been told it’s usually great here, but tonight was not the night and we won’t be returning. Apparently the manager has also been there for 5 years, but she clearly requires a refresh on how to manage a restaurant and people. So, with regards to that last review, there’s the context, Al.

Have passed the the Old Lion numerous times, but never visited until today. We wanted a dog friendly pub for lunch and was not disappointed, Alfie was more than welcome. Service was spot on and our food was outstanding, my husband said it was among the best burgers he's ever had and trust me he's had a few !! We will most certainly be back.

Menu choices were great, and food tasted amazing. Lovely atmosphere with friendly and attentive staff.

Had a great Sunday Roast. Had the Pea Soup which was great, then had the pork dinner and then a Creme Brule. All lovely. The only thing I would say is come hungry because the portions are huge! Great service too and very attentive restaurant staff. You will struggle to find a better roast in Rugby. 24 quid for 3 courses is very reasonable too!

Just had Sunday Roast for Mothers Day treat. Wow. It was fantastic. Yorkshire puddings are huge and delicious. Service was brilliant too. A lovely guy called Robert served us and he was attentive, friendly and polite.

Fantastic! Lovely Sunday lunch, very good portions with plenty of meat! Well cooked and well presented. Unfortunately I didn't take any pictures as I was too busy eating their wonderful fayre!

Food (light lunch) & service excellent 👌

Our first visit for Sunday lunch definitely won’t be our last we had starters and mains roast beef and lamb they come out plated with all the vegetables a good size plate full we knew this was a popular pub as walk ins were turned await due to them being full a good sign the prices were extremely reasonable definitely recommend if you want Sunday lunch to pre book online the service was not quick but if you are out for a leisurely lunch then .what’s the hurry Jackie the landlady extremely friendly look forward to our return.

Arrived without a booking with a colleague for a meal. Busy Wednesday night but enjoyed a drink in the bar area by the log fire while waiting for a table to become available. Had the lamb cutlets which were amazing! Beautifully cooked and tasty. Also enjoyed the side veggies dishes of mashed potato and mixed vegetables. Followed with a sweet of apple tart and custard. Beautiful! Chatted with the owner afterwards. Very friendly and very open discussion. Wish her and her partner great success!

We visit this restaurant every couple of months and the food is always absolutely delicious. Everything is cooked fresh and you can tell that quality ingredients are used. As it's freshly cooked to order there can be a wait of 30-40 mins, even if it...

We had a wonderful experience when we visited recently for Sunday lunch. The meal sizes are extremely generous and the freshly home cooked food is absolutely delicious! My husband really enjoyed the vegetarian option and my children loved their food too! My roast beef was...

What an amazing pub this is. The staff work so hard to make you feel welcome and to look after you. The food has been delicious every time. The Sunday Lunch is amazing and always more than enough to eat. Pie nights are fantastic value....

service was good, nice place too... but the food was not even bang average it was actually quite poor, so bland and no flavour what so ever. i ordered the steak and i dint eat it. over £70 bill on valentines day and had to...

Sunday meal booked for 3 pm to cater for a toddlers sleep. 5 adults and two children, one the toddler, the other 3yrs. On arrival my wife and I waited quite a while to even have anyone acknowledge our presence. Eventually someone I can only...

Great main course - I went for veggie option. Lots to eat, really well cooked and very tasty. The dessert didn't quite match it but I still enjoyed my meal and would definitely return, in fact we've already booked to do so

Food was lovely. We did wait a very long time for our food but it was all freshly made and hot, and it looked like there were only 2 people working. We were meeting family so the time was well spent. We'll come again.

Just back from steak night .2 steak meals bottle wine amazing value but pay extra for onion wings as amazing

Do not go for Sunday dinner. Service is so slow. Half of our party had finished their food and the other half still hadn't got their food. Children of 2 and 6 waiting 2 hours for their dinner.

Best roast dinner about, great staff and amazing service even when packed