The Red Lion is a charming, family-run country pub and restaurant in the rural village of Badlesmere, just outside Faversham, offering classic British cooking, local ales and a relaxed, community-minded atmosphere.
Located on Ashford Road, the pub sits in the heart of the Kent countryside, surrounded by farmland, walking routes and small villages. It’s around a 10-minute drive from Faversham and within easy reach of Ashford, making it a popular stop for locals, walkers and visitors exploring this peaceful corner of the county. The area is known for its hop fields, orchards and traditional pubs, and The Red Lion fits right in with its welcoming feel and focus on local produce.
Inside, The Red Lion blends rustic charm with a cosy, lived-in warmth - think wooden beams, open fires in winter and a friendly team who know many of their guests by name. There’s also a spacious garden for sunny days, making it a great spot for long lunches or a pint in the fresh air.
The menu centres on home-cooked British pub classics, with dishes prepared fresh using ingredients from Kent suppliers wherever possible. Expect comforting favourites such as beer-battered fish and chips, steak and ale pie, burgers, roasts and hearty seasonal specials. Lighter bites, sandwiches and starters offer plenty of choice for casual lunches, while the pub’s Sunday roasts are a particular draw for families and regulars.
Vegetarian options are available, and the kitchen keeps the menu approachable and generous, leaning into the kind of dishes that suit a relaxed countryside setting. Desserts follow the same comforting theme, with traditional puddings and sweet treats rounding off the meal.
With its mix of classic British cooking, rural Kent setting and genuine village-pub hospitality, The Red Lion stands out as a reliable, characterful place to eat near Faversham.