In the heart of Somerset’s rolling countryside, tucked between Glastonbury and Shepton Mallet, a centuries-old pub is rewriting its story—and winning hearts along the way. Once a tired relic of the past, The Lion has roared back to life since being bought during the height of the Covid-19 pandemic, and now it’s not just surviving—it’s thriving.

Owned by seasoned hospitality pro Barrie Wilson, The Lion was rescued in 2020 during one of Britain’s darkest hours for pubs. At a time when businesses were shutting down, Barrie saw potential in the forgotten inn with its 450-year-old walls and haunted fireplace. With lockdown halting regular operations, Barrie seized the moment for a full-scale refit, pouring in not just experience from London’s trendiest venues, but a personal flair for interior design. The result? A modern twist on a classic English watering hole—warm, stylish, and bursting with soul.

Today, The Lion is one of Somerset’s most celebrated pubs and a top contender in the SomersetLive Pub of the Year competition. But what truly makes it special isn’t just the décor, the drinks, or the food—it’s the people.

“Our locals are everything,” Barrie explains. “Rain, snow, or sunshine—they’re here, laughing, debating, tasting new beers, and making this place feel like home.”

That community spirit is infused into every pint and plate. Whether you’re a village regular or a tourist stopping by after visiting nearby Glastonbury, The Lion feels personal, approachable, and proudly local. Even celebrities have noticed—Emmerdale legend Chris Chittell (aka Eric Pollard) has been spotted enjoying the ambiance.

And the drinks? A hit parade of fan favourites and local gems. The house red, a velvety Portuguese Tinto, leads the charge, alongside Infinity Lager and Independence Ale, both sourced from the renowned Bristol Beer Factory. Guest ales rotate weekly, ensuring something fresh for every visit.

As for the food, it’s no exaggeration to say the fish and chips have become something of a pilgrimage dish. The hand-cut, triple-cooked chips, and cider-laced gluten-free batter create a crunch that has diners raving. But don’t overlook the pan-seared duck breast, a fan-favorite that disappears from plates as fast as it hits them. With a menu that shifts monthly, The Lion strikes the perfect balance between pub comfort and culinary creativity.

Oh—and did we mention the haunted fireplace?

With whispers of ghostly legends and 450 years of ale-soaked history, The Lion serves more than just food and drink. It offers stories, laughter, and a sense of place that many thought had disappeared from modern pubs.