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Summary of reviewsThe White Lion Inn, situated amidst the picturesque village surroundings just outside Birmingham, offers a delightful fusion of charm, convenience, and comfort that impresses guests consistently. This historic inn serves as an excellent base for travelers attending nearby events, with its proximity to the National Conference Centre and the NEC, as well as convenient access to the train station, Birmingham International Airport, and city center. The location not only benefits business travelers but also provides a serene escape to discover the quaint village setting, complete with a nearby lake and golf resort.
Guests rave about the exceptional breakfast experience that marks an excellent start to their day. The full English breakfast, celebrated for its quality and taste, is complemented by the friendly and attentive staff who ensure a satisfying dining experience. Dinner at the inn is no less impressive, with home-cooked meals like pie with steak and black pudding and beef bourguignon garnering enthusiastic praise. Despite occasional comments on menu variety, the food maintains high standards and is reasonably priced, adding to the establishment's charm as a local country pub.
Accommodations at The White Lion Inn reflect its rustic character and historical essence, with rooms that range from spacious to cozy. Guests appreciate the cleanliness and comfort of the rooms, noting the unique features that contribute to a memorable stay. Quirky elements like low door frames add to the charm, and options like separate chalets offer tranquil retreats away from the lively pub atmosphere. While minor drawbacks are mentioned, including cold temperatures and compact space, the inn's cleanliness and hospitable staff ensure a pleasant experience.
The stellar service provided by the staff, marked by friendliness and professional attentiveness, enhances every aspect of the guest experience. The proprietor, Chris, along with the team, plays a significant role in creating a welcoming atmosphere that guests value deeply. Their proactive approach in catering to guest needs, along with exceptional food offerings, make The White Lion Inn stand out as a sociable and warm destination.
The historic quality of the inn adds to its allure, capturing the hearts of visitors with its distinctive period architecture and atmospheric character. While idiosyncrasies like wonky floors and open-plan bathroom arrangements may be noted, these elements contribute to its unique charm within the typical English village setting. This 400-year-old inn successfully blends tradition with modern comforts, making it a memorable retreat for all who visit. Show more
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Dog Friendly Inn
The White Lion Inn welcomes dogs. This inn is a suitable choice for dog owners.
Dogs Stay Free
Do you accept dogs in all rooms? Yes
Is there an extra charge? Free! There is no extra charge. Dogs stay for free.
Should the dog owner notify you before checking in? Not necessarily
What is the maximum number of dogs per room? Up to 2 dogs are allowed in each room.
Is there a maximum weight of dogs accepted? No
Are there any leash-free play areas? No
Should the dog be kenneled at all times in the room? No
Should the dog be kenneled/kept in a pet carrier at all times in public areas? No
Should the dog remain leashed at all times in the room? No
Should the dog remain leashed at all times in public areas? No
Are the dogs allowed on the furniture? No
Are the dogs allowed on beds? No
What are the basic requirements to accept a dog?
Must not be aggressive
Must be clean
Must not have fleas
Owners must clean pet waste immediately
Owners are responsible for any damage caused by the dog
Must not bathe in the bathtub
Is there a refundable deposit to guard against damages? No
Do you provide any of these?
Food and water bowls
Except for dogs, do you also accept other pets? Yes
Do you have a written and comprehensive pet policy available on request? Νο
Additional information All pets welcome as long as under the owners control
Located in Catherine de Barnes, The White Lion Inn offers a cozy and intimate experience with its traditional inn setting. It provides a charming atmosphere for a relaxing getaway.
Inn where Dogs Stay Free
Located in Hampton in Arden, this inn welcomes dogs and offers a comfortable stay. The surrounding area provides pleasant walking routes.
Historic Inn
Year erected:1600
What is the history of the property? Originally a farmhouse that has brewed beer since at least 1700
What was the era and/or the architectural style in which the property was built? Tudor
Is the property surrounded by other historic buildings? 11th Century church opposite, with Sir Robert Peels House, Hampton Manor , 500 yds away. The village has many historic buildings, including Fentham Hall, Beech House and many historic cottages
Has restoration work taken place? Yes
Are there any important guests or previous owners worth mentioning? Oliver Cromwell's commander stayed here
Would you describe your property as (or has it ever been in the past) a:
Farmhouse
Is there anything that you would like to highlight, add or clarify? We 6 miles from Kenilworth Castle, 12 miles from Warwick Castle, 12 miles from Henley in Arden (Ann Hathaways House) 17 miles from Stratford on Avon
Twin RoomFeaturing free toiletries, this twin room includes a private bathroom with a shower and a hairdryer. This twin room has a private entrance, flat-screen TV with cable channels, garden views, as well as chocolate for guests. The unit has 2 beds.
Double RoomProviding free toiletries, this double room includes a private bathroom with a shower and a hairdryer. This double room features a private entrance, flat-screen TV with cable channels, garden views, as well as chocolate for guests. The unit offers 1 bed.
Guest Reviews
8.4
Very Good
Location
Nestled in a charming village just outside Birmingham, The White Lion Inn boasts a superb location ideal for travelers attending events or weddings. The inn is perfectly positioned for hassle-free access to the National Conference Centre and the NEC, making it a popular choice for those visiting these nearby venues. Guests appreciate its proximity to the train station, which is a mere five-minute walk away, offering convenient connections to Birmingham International Airport and the city center.
The inn's picturesque setting also provides a serene escape from the urban hustle, with quaint village surroundings and a homely atmosphere that guests find delightful. A short drive or walk reveals a beautiful lake and a golf resort, adding to the area's appeal. The historic pub’s location is further complemented by its closeness to Hampton Manor and the accessibility of Birmingham's major attractions without the need to drive into the city center. Whether visiting for business, a wedding, or leisure, The White Lion Inn offers a blend of charm and convenience.
Breakfast
The breakfast experience at The White Lion Inn consistently impresses guests, offering a delightful start to the day. With numerous mentions of its excellence, the breakfast is described as delicious, well-presented, and consistently tasty. A full English breakfast is a standout, receiving high praise for being spot on and embodying a good traditional English meal. The inclusion of breakfast in the overnight stay enhances the value of staying at the Inn. Guests appreciate the helpful and friendly staff who add to the positive dining experience, ensuring that the service complements the well-prepared and fresh breakfast offerings. While there are occasional concerns about breakfast timing, the staff is accommodating, even arranging early meals for those with tight schedules. Overall, The White Lion Inn provides a fantastic breakfast spread that leaves visitors satisfied and ready for the day, all in a charming setting with easy access to local attractions.
Dinner
The White Lion Inn offers guests a delightful dining experience characterized by top-quality, home-cooked meals and a welcoming atmosphere. Enthusiastic reviews highlight the superb food options available, with particular praise directed towards the pie with steak and black pudding, homemade leek and potato soup, and beef bourguignon. The dinner and breakfast offerings are consistently described as amazing and great, reflecting the dedication to quality and taste.
Exciting choices await on the evening meal menu, where diners relish a variety of flavors, including mouthwatering pies and an incredibly well-received selection of dishes crafted with care. Despite some comments about the limited menu options, the consensus is that each dish maintains a high standard of deliciousness.
The hotel's ambiance during dinner complements the culinary experience, providing a terrific and welcoming atmosphere paired with a pint of excellent quality. Guests appreciate the reasonable pricing, making the delicious food even more appealing. Overall, The White Lion Inn stands out as an excellent local country pub, well-regarded for its food offerings and comfortable accommodations.
Rooms
Nestled in a charming village location, The White Lion Inn offers guests an immersive experience in quintessential English accommodation. The rooms exude character, mirroring the rustic charm and historical essence of the pub. Quirky features like low door frames add to the unique ambiance, making stays memorable. Guests appreciate the cleanliness and comfort provided, with many rooms noted for their spotless appearance and comfortable bedding.
The rooms vary in size, with several described as spacious and others as more cozy and intimate. Regardless of size, most guests find the rooms adequately equipped and relaxing. Those choosing accommodations in separate chalets or outbuildings often enjoy added tranquility, away from the main pub area. This allows for peaceful rest without noise disturbances from the lively pub environment.
Amenities like well-maintained facilities contribute to a comfortable stay. The friendly staff enhance the experience, always ready to assist with any needs. The convenient location near a train station enables easy exploration of nearby Birmingham, adding further appeal to the inn's offerings.
It is worth noting that, while the rooms are generally viewed positively, size and basic furnishings may not meet everyone's expectations. There were comments about occasional cold temperatures and the unpredictability of some showers. Despite these occasional drawbacks, for those seeking a pleasant and enchanting retreat, The White Lion Inn remains a delightful choice steeped in character and warmth.
Beds
At The White Lion Inn, most guests find the beds to be a highlight of their stay, often describing them as very comfortable. The cozy beds, paired with lovely bedding, contribute significantly to a restful night's sleep. Although a few guests mention minor issues, such as older mattress conditions and compact double bed sizes, comfort remains a recurring theme. The bedding and room decor add a pleasant ambiance, enhancing the overall stay experience. While a selection of reviews suggests minor adjustments like tightening the bed frame or addressing heating for improved warmth, many visitors praise the comfort of the beds above all.
Cleanliness
The White Lion Inn stands out for its exceptional cleanliness, leaving a lasting impression on its guests. Rooms are consistently described as very clean, comfortable, and warmly furnished, making for a pleasant stay even in cold conditions. Guests appreciate the charming character of the 400-year-old building, despite the occasional wonky floors and creaky doors adding to its unique appeal. Amenities such as tea, coffee, and high-quality bedding and towels are commonly noted, enhancing the overall comfort of the stay. The straightforward check-in process and the warm, helpful demeanor of the staff further contribute to the positive experience. The rooms, while sometimes compact, are cozy and come with nice en-suites. Overall, despite one rare comment on a dirty carpet, the inn offers a clean and comfortable retreat steeped in character and history, with attentive hosts ensuring that guests feel well cared for.
Staff
The White Lion Inn presents an exceptional experience thanks in large part to its remarkable staff. Guests consistently praise the team for being extremely friendly and service-minded, ensuring a welcoming atmosphere throughout their stay. The proprietor, Chris, is highlighted as especially warm and helpful, contributing positively to the overall guest experience. The staff are noted for their professionalism, particularly during breakfast service, where they demonstrate both efficiency and attentiveness. They are not only accommodating but also proactive in addressing any issues or requests, nothing seems to be too much trouble for them.
Adding to the distinguished service is the excellent food, making the inn's combination of gastronomic delight and superb staff a notable aspect that guests appreciate. Overall, visitors describe The White Lion Inn as a place where the staff’s friendliness enhances the atmosphere of this thriving pub, making it a standout destination for those seeking a sociable and amiable environment. Whether it's the ease of finding the inn or enjoying a cooked breakfast, it's clear the staff play a pivotal role in ensuring guests have a memorable and satisfying experience.
Historic
Nestled in a picturesque area, The White Lion Inn offers guests a unique opportunity to step back in time while enjoying modern comforts. This inn, a 400-year-old gem, captivates with its charming period architecture and atmospheric character. Visitors are charmed by its distinctive quirks, reflecting the building's storied history. The welcoming log fire and friendly staff complement the charming ambiance, creating a delightful escape in a typical English village setting. Conveniently located near local attractions, it also serves as an ideal base for attending events like weddings. With its enduring historical allure and excellent facilities, The White Lion Inn stands as a testament to the blend of tradition and comfort, ensuring a memorable stay for all who visit. While the historic nature of the building does come with some idiosyncrasies, like open-plan bathroom arrangements, guests generally embrace the uniqueness of their experience, making it a memorable part of their journey.
No, The White Lion Inn doesn't have any pool.
No, a spa isn't available at The White Lion Inn.
Yes, The White Lion Inn welcomes dogs. For more information, read the answers to the Dog Friendly questionnaire
Yes, parking facilities are available at The White Lion Inn.