GBPA 2024: Punch Pub of the Year – the Red Lion, Cranford, Northamptonshire

But step inside, or head round the back to its new Garden Kitchen & Bar, and you’ll find this Punch-owned pub has plenty to shout about – from its cosy bar area to its light and airy conservatory restaurant and cigar terrace.

The first of one of four Northamptonshire pubs to open and operate under the Greedy Gordons Pub Group, the Red Lion has built up a stellar reputation – notably for its food – over the past seven years.

Broad offering​

Run and managed by chef Richard Gordon and business partner Sonya Harvey, the Red Lion has earned a string of awards for its broad offering which includes high-end pub classics like local lamb hotpot; homemade beef burger and battered haddock, European-influenced dishes such as Moules Frites and Chicken Milanese and its speciality hanging kebabs.

Gordon’s cheffing experience has left its imprint, but he and Harvey recognise it’s not all about the food and this last year redressed the balance towards drinkers with the addition of their Garden Kitchen & Bar.

Success credit​

The terraced area, which opened ready for this summer, now provides an al fresco drinking and dining experience for their customers. Such has been its success; the pair are already investigating ways to extend its use through the winter months.

While Gordon and Harvey are the driving force behind the business, it is their 110-strong team working across their four sites who they credit with its success.

And there are plenty of ways they repay their gratitude. A four-day week is in place for all members of the team and development opportunities abound, including internships at Tom Kerridge’s pubs for three members of its kitchen team.