Both bars in this classic Grade II-listed pub, have plenty of character and history. Located in a conservation area between the city centre and the site of Roman Verulamium, the pub stands in one of St Albans' most picturesque streets. The Lower Red was an early champion of CAMRA's values in the real ale revival movement and continues to this day stocking quality cask beers. Home-made food is served lunchtimes and weekday evenings, and there is a large beer garden. The B&B accommodation at the pub is currently undergoing refurbishment. Children are not admitted.
Historic Interest
Of 17th century origins and included in CAMRA's East Anglian Regional inventory
Dating back to the 17th century this inn retains genuinely old panelling in its two (was three) rooms. On the left is the small bar where the right hand side of the room is a fine at least 18th century panelled partition. Cut into it is the servery of an inter-war fielded panelled bar counter with a modern wooden top. There is more old panelling on the far wall to the right of a large brick fireplace - the bricks being a mixture of old and new; the seating is modern. The right hand bar has another large old brick fireplace but the bar counter here is modern. Note the figure '2' on the wall on the right hand side of the counter top which is a requirement of licensing magistrates and may indicate there was a hatch here originally. There are a number of timber uprights in what was originally two small rooms.
Dating back to the 17th century this inn retains genuinely old panelling in its two (was three) rooms. On the left is the small bar where the right hand side of the room is a fine at least 18th century panelled partition. Cut into it is the servery of an inter-war fielded panelled bar counter with a modern wooden top. There is more old panelling on the far wall to the right of a large brick fireplace - the bricks being a mixture of old and new; the seating is modern. The right hand bar has another large old brick fireplace but the bar counter here is modern. Note the figure '2' on the wall on the right hand side of the counter top which is a requirement of licensing magistrates and may indicate there was a hatch here originally. There are a number of timber uprights in what was originally two small rooms.
This Pub serves 4 changing beers and 1 regular beer.
Lower Red Lion, St. Albans
Source: National