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    The Golden Lion

    3.9 (20 reviews)
    ModeratePubs
    Open 11:00 am - 11:00 pm

    The Golden Lion Photos

    THE GOLDEN LION ATMOSPHERE

    What's the vibe?
    Moderate noise
    Casual
    Good for groups
    Outdoor seating

    Recommended Reviews - The Golden Lion

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    Reviews With Photos

    David J.

    The Golden Lion is a late Victorian pub with plenty of original fixtures and fittings, a stone's throw from St James's Square and Christie's. Built 1897-98 (on the site of an earlier pub of the same name opened in 1762), this is a good example of a pub designed by the architects Eedle and Meyers, who were responsible for many pubs in London. It has an attractive and distinctive bow front with original curved wooden windows and doors, all filled with lead-light windows with stained glass reflecting a theatrical theme: the St James's theatre was originally next door. The theatrical theme continues upstairs in the name of its dining room, which is open 12-15h. Downstairs is a long, narrow bar, with little seating - most people stand, and there's more standing room outside in the adjacent side passage - with more wooden panelling. Real ales include London Pride and guest ales, which on my visit included Hog's Back Summer Ale and Sharp's Doom Bar. Friendly and efficient staff.

    Beautiful traditional English pub in St James. Team was lovely and food good too. Will be back soon with my friends.

    THE FRIES HAVE PICKLES ON THEM! OMGGGGG
    Jenn S.

    I can't remember exactly what were on the fries I ordered but horseradish, cheese and pickles?? I almost fell out of my chair it's like all my favorite things I never thought to combine! I also ordered the Kale and Sweet Potato wrap that I ate too fast to think about taking a photo. My friend and I came here pretty hungry and wanted a good beer and we managed to pick a place that was good for both. The bottom bar was casual and quiet which we enjoyed. If you are in the area it is worth the stop (for the fries obviously)

    Upstairs bar.

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    1 year ago

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    1 year ago

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    9 months ago

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    4 years ago

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    2 years ago

    Other than a hard-to-close front door :) -- a great pub experience. Pea soup was extra minty, salmon cakes and fish&chips were solid.

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    18 years ago

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    10 years ago

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    12 years ago

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    11 years ago

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    11 years ago

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    8 years ago

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    10 years ago

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    10 years ago

    Way good guiness fantastic food and super misic this pub roks loved hanging there. Cheerz!

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    17 years ago

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    11 years ago

    Great little pub near Buckingham Palace. Bartender was super helpful in getting me hooked up with wifi!

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    10 years ago

    Nothing really wrong with this pub. Good place to grab a beer and a quick bite to eat. We had the nachos and the Caesar salad. Both good.

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    14 years ago

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    11 years ago

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    Devonshire Arms - Exterior building

    Devonshire Arms

    4.1(26 reviews)
    0.3 miSoho
    ££

    Such a cute, old fashioned place. Really really loved this location- only went for pints and little…read moresnacks but area is gorgeous as well pub is very cute. Overall really enjoyable experience. Was rather packed and service is quick but able to snag seat. Recommend

    Truth be told, I wasn't expecting a late-night dinner at a pub in Central London to be this…read moreamazing... or expensive. Thankfully, I have friends from out of town who are more in-the-know about my city than I am. Reservations were made more than a month in advance, and if that's any indication of how popular this place is, plan well in advance. From the ground floor, you wouldn't think this pub is any different than the thousands of others around London, with its crowd of office workers gathering around the outside like a swarm of thirsty bees once 5PM rolls around. Once inside, however, it turns into a rustic, yet sophisticated dining experience; especially when you're guided to the top two floors. My group and I were seated at a table with a lovely view from the topmost floor, gazing out over Piccadilly Circus. The menu seems to vary from evening to evening, so prepare for those elevated prices. I can safely say, however, that every single thing you'll have at this restaurant will leave you salivating for more. My rib-eye steak was easily the best I've had in London - possibly my life - succulent and perfectly cooked, with that delicious char on the ends for maximum satisfaction. The sides are ridiculously delicious for what they are, and even the mashed potatoes left nothing to be desired. The desserts - of which we tried all - are all a comforting finish to a glorious meal without being overwhelming. The bread pudding was probably my favourite of the bunch, but that sorbet can't be ignored, either. They have a few cocktails on the menu, but given that I was having steak, I listened to reason for once and went with a glass of their Château Bel-Air 2010 red wine. Now, I'm not usually a wine drinker, and absolutely never go for reds, but this bit of liquid sin may have just changed my view on life forever. I'd certainty have it again, if prompted. This lovely gem of a pub should definitely be on your list for the next special occasion in your life. Or, if you splurge for a living like some of us, why not make it your next Tuesday night out?

    Photos
    Devonshire Arms
    Devonshire Arms
    Devonshire Arms - Iberico Pork ribsSome of the nicest things I have put in my mouth.

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    Iberico Pork ribsSome of the nicest things I have put in my mouth.

    The Golden Lion - pubs - Updated September 2026

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