At The Red Lion, we pride ourselves on staying ahead of the curve by offering quality drinks that our customers truly enjoy. One question we often get is, Do you serve Carling? The answer is simple: No, we don’t, and we never have.

Carling, often touted as “Britain’s Best Beer,” doesn’t quite live up to its title in the eyes of many pub-goers. In fact, recent polling by Kingfisher Drinks reveals that almost half (46.9%) of those surveyed identified Carling as the UK’s most ‘boring beer.’ With pub-goers becoming fed up with seeing the same old lagers at the bar, it’s no wonder the demand for variety and quality is higher than ever.

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Why We Choose Real Ales Over Carling

Our focus at The Red Lion is on serving Real Ales – beverages that pack character, depth, and a story in every pint. Carling might be the marmite of beers, with some loving it and others steering clear, but we know our customers expect more from us. By curating a selection of craft brews and local ales, we aim to offer something unique that keeps your taste buds happy and coming back for more.

For some, Carling has become synonymous with bland, mainstream options. In fact, many of our ale drinkers affectionately refer to lager drinkers as “Carling’s Boys.” While that might be a bit tongue-in-cheek, it highlights the divide between those who love the more industrial-style lagers and those who prefer the richness and diversity of real ales.

 

Quality Over Quantity

We believe in offering beers with real substance, ones that speak to the craft and care put into their creation. Every pint of ale we serve has been chosen for its distinct flavour profile, whether it’s a local favourite or a Titanic for example seasonal brew.

 

So, if you’re looking for something beyond the usual suspects of mass-produced lagers, The Red Lion is the place for you. Whether you’re a long-time ale enthusiast or just starting to explore the world of craft beers, we’ve got something on tap for everyone to enjoy.

Come by, grab a pint, and see for yourself why we’re sticking to our guns and staying ahead of the curve. No Carling—just great beers.