The Red Lion, Egham โ 47 Verified Student Reviews ๐ป
arrow_back_ios Back
add_circle
Add your night out listing
The Red Lion -
The Red Lion -
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Based on 47 user ratings
52 High St, Egham TW20 9EW, United Kingdom
๐ฌ What Students Say
The Red Lion, located on Egham's High Street, is a historic pub that has been serving locals and students alike since 1521. This venue combines a rich history with a welcoming atmosphere, making it a popular choice for students from Royal Holloway looking for a laid-back night out. The pub is well-known for its hearty English fare and a selection of real ales, ensuring that there's something for everyone. Whether you're catching up with friends over drinks or enjoying a meal, The Red Lion offers an authentic British pub experience that resonates well with its visitors.
The atmosphere at The Red Lion is frequently described as chill and relaxed, which is perfect for students looking to unwind after a long week. Many reviews highlight the friendly vibe and the mix of patrons, creating a welcoming environment where everyone feels at home. Students often appreciate that the venue strikes a balance between being lively and laid-back, making it an ideal spot for both social gatherings and quieter evenings. The spacious layout ensures that it never feels overcrowded, allowing for easy conversations and comfortable seating arrangements.
When it comes to music, The Red Lion features a selection of tunes that cater to a variety of tastes. Reviewers frequently mention the quality of the background music, which contributes to the overall ambiance of the pub. The music is described as chill, perfect for hanging out with friends, yet lively enough to keep the energy up during busier nights. While the specific genres played were not detailed, the general consensus is that the music enhances the relaxed vibe of the venue, making it a great place to socialize.
One of the standout features of The Red Lion is its pricing. Students often rave about the affordability of the drinks, noting that they are reasonably priced and well-made. This is particularly appealing for those on a student budget, as it allows for a fun night out without breaking the bank. Many patrons comment on the value they receive, stating that the combination of good drinks, atmosphere, and friendly service makes it worth every penny. While some reviews mention that drinks arenโt the absolute cheapest, the overall quality and experience seem to justify the prices.
As for the queue and entry experience, students have reported a generally smooth process. The venue is highly rated for its queue management, with many reviewers appreciating the lack of long waits to get inside. This contributes to the overall positive experience, as patrons can start enjoying their night without the frustration of standing in line for too long. The efficient entry process means that students can focus on having a good time from the moment they arrive.
Students who have visited The Red Lion frequently mention that it's a solid spot for a night out with friends. Many reviews emphasize that the pub is a great place to meet up before heading out to other venues, making it a convenient choice for those looking to kick off their night in a relaxed setting. The positive experiences shared by students indicate that The Red Lion is a popular choice for both casual hangouts and more lively evenings.
In terms of who this venue suits best, The Red Lion is ideal for students who appreciate a friendly, laid-back atmosphere where they can enjoy good drinks and music without the pressure of a typical club scene. Itโs particularly well-suited for those looking for a place to unwind after classes or to catch up with friends in a comfortable setting. The combination of a relaxed vibe and a vibrant student crowd makes it a must-visit for anyone at Royal Holloway.
However, like any venue, The Red Lion has its strengths and weaknesses. On the positive side, the welcoming atmosphere, affordable drinks, and enjoyable music create a fantastic environment for students. The spaciousness of the pub is also a significant plus, as it allows for comfortable gatherings without feeling cramped. On the downside, some reviews mention that the bar can get a bit loud when the crowd is in full party mode, which may not suit everyoneโs preferences. Additionally, while the drinks are well-made, they may not always be the cheapest option in town, so itโs worth keeping that in mind when planning your night out.
In summary, The Red Lion stands out as a beloved local pub that combines history, a welcoming atmosphere, and a vibrant student crowd. With its affordable drinks, chill vibe, and great music, itโs a fantastic choice for anyone looking to enjoy a laid-back night out in Egham. Whether you're stopping by for a quick drink or planning a longer evening with friends, The Red Lion promises a memorable experience that keeps students coming back for more.
▼ See more
The atmosphere at The Red Lion is frequently described as chill and relaxed, which is perfect for students looking to unwind after a long week. Many reviews highlight the friendly vibe and the mix of patrons, creating a welcoming environment where everyone feels at home. Students often appreciate that the venue strikes a balance between being lively and laid-back, making it an ideal spot for both social gatherings and quieter evenings. The spacious layout ensures that it never feels overcrowded, allowing for easy conversations and comfortable seating arrangements.
When it comes to music, The Red Lion features a selection of tunes that cater to a variety of tastes. Reviewers frequently mention the quality of the background music, which contributes to the overall ambiance of the pub. The music is described as chill, perfect for hanging out with friends, yet lively enough to keep the energy up during busier nights. While the specific genres played were not detailed, the general consensus is that the music enhances the relaxed vibe of the venue, making it a great place to socialize.
One of the standout features of The Red Lion is its pricing. Students often rave about the affordability of the drinks, noting that they are reasonably priced and well-made. This is particularly appealing for those on a student budget, as it allows for a fun night out without breaking the bank. Many patrons comment on the value they receive, stating that the combination of good drinks, atmosphere, and friendly service makes it worth every penny. While some reviews mention that drinks arenโt the absolute cheapest, the overall quality and experience seem to justify the prices.
As for the queue and entry experience, students have reported a generally smooth process. The venue is highly rated for its queue management, with many reviewers appreciating the lack of long waits to get inside. This contributes to the overall positive experience, as patrons can start enjoying their night without the frustration of standing in line for too long. The efficient entry process means that students can focus on having a good time from the moment they arrive.
Students who have visited The Red Lion frequently mention that it's a solid spot for a night out with friends. Many reviews emphasize that the pub is a great place to meet up before heading out to other venues, making it a convenient choice for those looking to kick off their night in a relaxed setting. The positive experiences shared by students indicate that The Red Lion is a popular choice for both casual hangouts and more lively evenings.
In terms of who this venue suits best, The Red Lion is ideal for students who appreciate a friendly, laid-back atmosphere where they can enjoy good drinks and music without the pressure of a typical club scene. Itโs particularly well-suited for those looking for a place to unwind after classes or to catch up with friends in a comfortable setting. The combination of a relaxed vibe and a vibrant student crowd makes it a must-visit for anyone at Royal Holloway.
However, like any venue, The Red Lion has its strengths and weaknesses. On the positive side, the welcoming atmosphere, affordable drinks, and enjoyable music create a fantastic environment for students. The spaciousness of the pub is also a significant plus, as it allows for comfortable gatherings without feeling cramped. On the downside, some reviews mention that the bar can get a bit loud when the crowd is in full party mode, which may not suit everyoneโs preferences. Additionally, while the drinks are well-made, they may not always be the cheapest option in town, so itโs worth keeping that in mind when planning your night out.
In summary, The Red Lion stands out as a beloved local pub that combines history, a welcoming atmosphere, and a vibrant student crowd. With its affordable drinks, chill vibe, and great music, itโs a fantastic choice for anyone looking to enjoy a laid-back night out in Egham. Whether you're stopping by for a quick drink or planning a longer evening with friends, The Red Lion promises a memorable experience that keeps students coming back for more.
โ What Students Love
- Charming, historic atmosphere with a rich background.
- Affordable drinks that cater to student budgets.
- Relaxed vibe with a friendly crowd, perfect for socializing.
- Spacious layout that avoids overcrowding.
- Good background music that enhances the overall experience.
- Efficient queue management for a smooth entry.
- Consistently positive experiences reported by students.
โ ๏ธ Things to Note
- Can get loud during peak party times.
- Drinks may not be the absolute cheapest available.
- Some students may prefer a more energetic nightlife experience.
- Occasional busy nights could lead to a more crowded atmosphere.
- Not all drink options are detailed in reviews.
๐ฏ Best For
Students looking for a chill and friendly pub atmosphere to hang out with friends.
๐ก Things to Know
- The pub has a relaxed dress code; casual attire is welcome.
- Expect a friendly mix of students and locals, enhancing the atmosphere.
- Plan to arrive early on busy nights to avoid long queues.
- Check out the food menu for hearty English fare.
- The pub is suitable for both day and night visits.
โ Common Questions
What is The Red Lion like?
The Red Lion offers a charming, relaxed atmosphere with a mix of students and locals, great for hanging out.
How long is the queue?
The venue is rated well for queue management, with students reporting minimal wait times.
Is it good value?
Yes, students appreciate the affordable drinks and overall value for a fun night out.
What music does The Red Lion play?
The music is described as chill, enhancing the laid-back atmosphere, perfect for socializing.
What food options are available?
The Red Lion serves hearty English fare, making it a great spot for a meal before or after drinks.
Reviews
1 of 47
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Remembering the old wooden beams and the creaky floors, it felt like stepping back in time. you can't avoid the lively student crowd, but there's something comforting about the laughter that echoes through the pub. even when it gets loud, it's hard not to enjoy the energy buzzing around you.
By user340451 on Apr 23rd 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Grew on me over the weeks as the historic charm really resonates.
By user789790 on Apr 18th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Definitely a good spot if you're tired of rowdy clubs. compared to some of the other places around, the red lion has a more relaxed vibe and avoids the overwhelming crowds ๐
. the staff actually remember you after a few visits which is nice when you want a bit of familiarity.
By user868925 on Apr 13th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Suits anyone wanting a bit of history with their pint. it's typically full of students from royal holloway, which keeps things lively and friendly, though you'll have to elbow your way to the bar on a busy night.
By user337255 on Apr 11th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Serving since 1521, this place has way more character than most typical student haunts. you can really feel the history in the walls, and the combo of friendly staff and reasonable prices just makes it a better choice than the usual spots.
By user507394 on Apr 1st 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Always buzzing with a mix of locals and students, the red lion has this magical ability to feel like you're part of some ancient tradition while still being completely relaxed. itโs not just about the drinks; the whole place is steeped in stories that make it truly unique.
By user341242 on Mar 30th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Staff are top-notch here, always up for a chat and super attentive even when it gets busy. you can tell they really enjoy the vibe, which makes for a more chill and genuine experience.
By user188754 on Mar 26th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Stumbled into The Red Lion expecting a typical worn-out pub, but was pleasantly surprised by its mix of history and genuine warmth.
By user125335 on Mar 23rd 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Staff here always seem to know when to chat and when to give you space. it's nice having a place where i feel like more than just another face. they've definitely mastered that friendly without being too much vibe.
By user266969 on Mar 18th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Heard someone say the red lion's been around since the 1500s, which explains the cool old-school vibe. it's always nice for a chill evening with mates.
By user694190 on Mar 16th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
What really sets the red lion apart is its rich history and welcoming vibe, perfect for unwinding with friends. ๐
By user559219 on Mar 11th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
What sets the red lion apart is its fascinating history, which you can feel in the old wooden beams and cozy nooks that lend character you won't find in newer pubs. it's a great spot to absorb some tradition with your pint and mates.
By user355093 on Mar 9th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Staff here are genuinely chill and easy to chat with. always happy to help with a recommendation or two if you can't decide what to try. makes hanging around feel more like spending time with friends than anything else.
By user752480 on Feb 27th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Definitely going back for the cozy atmosphere and chill locals. it's got that historic character without trying too hard, which is refreshing.
By user623296 on Feb 25th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Often feels overly crowded, especially during peak times. finding a place to sit can be tricky, and it sort of dampens what could be a chill evening. a bit more space or seating arrangements would make visits much better.
By user174688 on Feb 24th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Offers a unique charm that you won't find in more modern bars. it's all about the history, and you can really feel it when you walk in. this is where students and locals blend together in a way that's as natural as it is enjoyable, so you don't feel out of place even if it's your first time ๐
By user219912 on Feb 22nd 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Service could be a bit more attentive at times. had to wait longer than expected for my drink while the staff were busy chatting amongst themselves. still a decent spot to hang out, especially if youโre into the historical vibe.
By user662371 on Feb 20th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Staff here are genuinely nice, which makes such a difference when you're having a stressed uni day. historic vibe is cool too and it feels like the perfect place to just unwind
By user553115 on Feb 19th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Had a great time at the red lion, the perfect mix of history and chill vibes. staff were a laugh, making all of us feel like regulars even though it was our first time there.
By user512284 on Feb 18th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Definitely would go back there for the laid-back vibe and the mix of locals and students. it feels like a nice escape from campus, plus there's something about its history that adds a bit of character to the place.
By user412899 on Feb 17th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Heard the red lion's one of the go-to spots if you're at royal holloway, and honestly, i get why. it's got that historical charm with a chill vibe, and honestly, it's probably one of those places where you can unwind without worrying too much about overspending ๐.
By user313202 on Feb 16th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Loads of students from royal holloway hang out here, so it's always buzzing with familiar faces and some new ones too. the mix of locals and students makes for interesting conversations and a lively vibe, which i appreciate when i just want to unwind without thinking about uni work.
By user891441 on Feb 15th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Definitely worth going back as the blend of history and relaxed atmosphere made for a brilliant night out ๐
By user866671 on Feb 14th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Walking into The Red Lion feels like stepping back in time but with a warm embrace. despite its age, it gives off a familiar yet vibrant energy, perfect for unwinding after hours of studying. felt like a place with stories to share, and you just know you'll always have a consistently good time there.
By user930970 on Feb 13th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Good mix of regulars and students creates a cool blend of conversation you won't find elsewhere.
By user354669 on Feb 9th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Expected an old pub to be a bit rundown, but the red lion feels well-kept and comfy. students blend in nicely with the regulars, which adds to the charming vibe ๐
By user441751 on Feb 1st 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Stepping into The Red Lion, i was genuinely surprised by how it effortlessly blends its rich history with a laid-back modern vibe ๐ฎ. i expected an ancient pub to feel a bit stuffy, but it felt warm and inviting instead. it's a spot where you can just relax and feel comfortable, whether you're there to chat, study, or unwind.
By user204934 on Jan 27th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Staff here are really chill and seem to genuinely enjoy their jobs, which makes a big difference to the overall experience. you're never waiting ages for a drink and theyโve got this knack for remembering faces, so after a few visits you feel almost like a regular without even trying.
By user176876 on Jan 22nd 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Didn't expect to find such a historical vibe mixed with a lively crowd at the red lion. it's a cool spot to unwind and get to know people from uni. the staff are chill and make you feel right at home.
By user462169 on Jan 18th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Didn't expect such a historical feel inside the red lion. the old wooden beams and aged stone floors gave it a charm i wasn't really prepared for. it's a bit like stepping back in time, which was quite different from the usual student hangouts.
By user906178 on Jan 14th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Popped in a few times after class and itโs grown on me. there's always a chill energy, not overwhelming or too quiet, just somewhere you can unwind without feeling pressured to chat every minute.
By user510623 on Jan 11th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Finding a pub with such a deep historical character right by campus is rare these days. it's definitely got a charm that's hard to match elsewhere, and i've spent some memorable evenings swapping stories with friends while soaking up the old world vibe.
By user184265 on Jan 7th 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Heard from a friend that the red lion is one of those places that's stood the test of time, but you wouldn't know because it feels so lively. i went there and it was like a perfect mix of old vibes and new faces and chatted with people who seemed just as curious and excited to be there.
By user744159 on Jan 3rd 2026
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Felt like a step back in time compared to other pubs around, but in a lovely way. the staff are much more laid-back and friendly than you'd expect in such an old place, making it feel more like a second home.
By user751850 on Dec 30th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Settling into The Red Lion feels like finding a second home, with friendly faces.
By user494632 on Dec 25th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Usually pop by the red lion every friday with my flatmates. there's something relaxing about ending the week there, just chatting and unwinding.
By user641764 on Dec 21st 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Worth popping into if you want a bit of history with your pint. locals and students mix here with such ease that you'll feel like a regular too
By user804888 on Dec 17th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Found it unexpectedly vibrant for such an old pub. locals and students blend together, making it feel like a proper hangout rather than just a traditional spot.
By user738537 on Dec 12th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Never fails to have the right mix of history and chill. it's the sort of place where you feel like a local even if you're just passing through. i'd definitely go back, especially for the warm vibe that somehow makes a night out both relaxed and memorable.
By user665833 on Dec 6th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Staff at the red lion are genuinely top-notch. whether you're grabbing a pint with mates or just enjoying the ambiance, they somehow make you feel like part of the family. ๐
they know how to keep the balance perfectly, not too intrusive but always around when you need them.
By user273833 on Dec 2nd 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Noticed the quirky old photos on the walls that tell bits of the pub's long history. it adds a certain charm and makes you feel like you've walked into a place with stories to share. kind of felt like i stumbled into someoneโs living room where people chat about the past over a pint.
By user207520 on Nov 28th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Warming up to the red lion just took a few visits. initially, i went with my mates purely for the history angle, but stayed for the easy-going vibe. it's slowly become our regular spot, with enough space for everyone to comfortably gather and unwind.
By user212648 on Nov 24th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Noticed how the crowd here is always up for a chat, unlike other places where it's sometimes hard to connect with people. even on a busy night, it felt like everyone was friendly and approachable, which added to the whole experience
By user847676 on Nov 17th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Didn't expect such a rich history at the red lion. stepping inside feels like entering another era, with friendly regulars who love sharing stories of the place's past.
By user817629 on Nov 10th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Staff here are easygoing and know how to keep the energy up without being intrusive. it's one of those spots where you feel almost like a local even if it's your first visit.
By user758595 on Nov 3rd 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Returning to the red lion is a no-brainer for me. itโs got that chill historic charm while still being lively and sociable. i always end up meeting random yet fun people, which adds to the night ๐
By user905246 on Oct 29th 2025
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Warm light spilled through the windows one evening and i stumbled upon a group of other first years huddled by the fireplace. conversations flowed easily as we shared stories over pints and it felt a bit like finding a new crew in this unfamiliar place.
By user758929 on Jul 25th 2024
Review published! โ