SITUATED in idyllic surroundings at Shatterford, the Red Lion is a wonderful spot in which to enjoy a meal or a drink - and with the new owner planning to update the historic building with a stylish refurbishment, the interior will soon be every bit as impressive as the location itself.

"We are aiming to be a restaurant and pub, rather than a pub that does food," explains Ben Charlton, who bought the Red Lion in the spring and hopes to attract new clientele to supplement the core of regular patrons who already appreciate the venue's friendly ambience.

The refurbishment will maintain the traditions of the historic building, which has been a pub since 1835, as well as modernising the layout to create a seamless progression between the bar and restaurant areas. Meanwhile, the new menu is already available, featuring modern, largely British cuisine and ingredients sourced from the local area.

"As far as possible, we use locally-reared or locally-grown produce, bought from the local butcher and greengrocer," Ben continues, mindful of the Red Lion's place in the community. "So many pub-restaurants use frozen or ready-made products and just heat them up in the microwave - but we want to offer fresh, decent food at a fair price."

The a la carte menu features regional produce such as Herefordshire beef, a trio of local sausages and supreme of local chicken, while home-made options include the chef's chicken liver pate with brandy, soup of the day and a choice of home-made sauces. A changing selection of fresh fish is delivered daily, while a 'specials board' offers extra choice.

Local ingredients are also used for the children's menu, which features a range of healthy options with no artificial colourings. "The dishes are essentially smaller portions of the adult meals, to try and introduce kids to 'real' food," said Ben. "The children's menu is in keeping with our ethos of quality food and value for money."

The Red Lion is a free house, so manager Arjun Madahar is able to let customers have a say in which drinks are stocked - he has introduced a system where patrons can vote every month for the beer they'd like to see behind the bar. A selection of cask ales is always on offer, including the ever-popular Bathams, plus beers from other local breweries such as Wye Valley.

An extensive list of wine and champagne is also available, with something to suit all tastes, and although the Red Lion is likely to become known as a restaurant in the future, the pub side of the business should still encourage customers to visit for a drink as Ben plans to install comfy seating and low tables in the bar area to create a more relaxed atmosphere.

Local clubs and groups such as CAMRA utilise the venue for social events, and Arjun is more than happy to cater for large parties, especially as part of the restaurant can be sub-divided for a private function. Outside, an additional eating and drinking area affords delightful views over the Shropshire countryside.

The Red Lion has already been asked to participate in a Daily Telegraph initiative offering two-for-one meals at selected 'gastro-pubs' (effective until August 20). It is the only restaurant from the immediate area to be chosen - an early indication of the quality of this venue.

The Red Lion

Bridgnorth Road

Shatterford

01299 861221