31st July 2026
Written by Rachel Wallace
The Red Lion, Lower Withington reopened its doors in late June after an eight-week refurbishment that has completely transformed the pub's trading areas into a welcoming country pub destination.
The Red Lion has been refreshed to celebrate its character and charm, and has been transformed into a light, modern farmhouse space that reflects its beautiful surroundings. With its location being set amongst Cheshire fields and country lanes, our Design team took inspiration from the local landscape to create a space that feels contemporary, but true to its setting.
The biggest focus of the refurbishment was the reconfiguration of the trading space. Before, the pub was split across several separate rooms, making the trading space feel disconnected. By opening up the floorplan, the pub now flows seamlessly, making it easier and more accessibly for guests to explore. The result is a much brighter, more open and accessible pub for everyone to enjoy.
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Previously, the interiors of the Red Lion were dark, and what you could expect from a traditional pub, but now is a light country pub with light oak features, panelling and rustic planked floorboards throughout the main areas to create warmth and texture, while making it a brighter space.
The much-loved Farmers' Bar (popular with the locals) has also been thoughtfully refreshed. New paved stone flooring has been installed for longevity and has a rustic feel. Throughout the pub, stunning new furniture has been introduced, complemented by countryside-inspired fabrics and wallpaper that reinforces the farmhouse aesthetic. The artwork on the walls features archival photographs of the pub through the years, celebrating the Red Lion's rich history and its place within the local community.
One of the standout features of the refurbishment is the Garden Room. Previously feeling completely separate from the rest of the pub, it is now fully connected to the main trading area while still offering a light and airy space for functions, celebrations and larger parties. Outside, the improvements continue with the addition of a new tractor bay, alongside traditional Cheshire railing that enhances the pub's countryside character.
The new and improved look of the Red Lion complements the outstanding food offering that the pub is known for, creating a setting that now matches the quality of the dishes being served. We are absolutely delighted with the finished result, and since reopening, guests have had nothing but complimentary things to say about the transformation.
If you are in the area, or visiting one of Cheshire’s many sights, add the Red Lion to your route to see the refurb for yourself and make sure to sample the menu (you won’t be disappointed). Visit the Red Lion’s website here:
