Nestled in the quaint Somerset village of West Pennard, between Glastonbury and Shepton Mallet, The Lion pub is flourishing—despite being acquired during the turbulent Covid-19 pandemic. This historic establishment, dating back some 450 years and boasting a haunted fireplace, has captured the hearts of locals and visitors alike, earning a nomination among the top 50 pubs in Somerset for the Pub of the Year award.
Owner Barrie Wilson took over The Lion in 2020, a precarious moment for the hospitality industry. Utilizing the second lockdown period, Barrie undertook a comprehensive refurbishment to rejuvenate the once tired venue. Bringing over two decades of hospitality experience, including stints at acclaimed Somerset pubs and London venues, as well as a passion for interior design, he has infused fresh life and ideas into The Lion. His goal is to maintain the pub’s traditional British charm while evolving its appeal to attract both locals and tourists seeking an authentic experience.
The Lion thrives because of its dedicated community. “Our locals make our pub special,” Barrie notes. Regular visitors defend their spot come rain, snow, or shine, and the pub adapts by tailoring local beers to their tastes, ensuring a diverse and exciting selection.
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The kitchen is renowned for standout dishes such as the pan-seared duck breast and the pub’s hallmark fish and chips—crafted with hand-cut, triple-cooked chips and a gluten-free, cider-based batter that keeps patrons coming back. Instead of a jukebox, the atmosphere is set by a chill Spotify playlist, enhancing the welcoming vibe.
A memorable moment for the team was a visit from Chris Chittell, the longest-serving cast member of ITV’s Emmerdale, who happily promoted The Lion’s offerings and mingled with guests. This celebrity endorsement highlights The Lion’s growing recognition beyond Somerset.
Winning the Pub of the Year would be a tremendous honor, Barrie says, recognizing the hard work of his team and bringing pride to the village. Looking ahead, he urges the public to continue supporting local pubs, emphasizing their role as vital social hubs that embody British culture. With pubs facing decline nationwide, community backing is essential to keep these cherished institutions alive for years to come.