The Debenham Lion is a hidden gem nestled in the quaint village of Debenham, Stowmarket, offering an enchanting dining experience that captures the heart of East Anglia. Patrons rave about the seamless blend of delightful ambiance and exceptional culinary offerings, making it a must-visit destination for both locals and travelers.
Reviewers frequently highlight the exceptional quality of its food. From a flawless asparagus soup to a Sunday roast that features succulent lamb and light Yorkshire puddings, each dish showcases a commitment to quality ingredients and expert preparation. Maria Sarro, a satisfied guest, praised the establishment for serving "the best brisket" she has ever tasted, while F Keane applauded the deliciousness of their Sunday lunch.
The warmth of the staff complements the culinary excellence, further enhancing the welcoming atmosphere that diners experience. Whether enjoying local ales or the diverse vegetarian options, the Debenham Lion stands out as a place that prioritizes both flavor and guest comfort. With enthusiastic mentions of its vibrant wine events and beautiful renovations, this village pub not only preserves history but also promises an extraordinary dining journey.
In short, The Debenham Lion invites everyone to come, indulge, and relish the flavors of Suffolk, ensuring a visit you won’t soon forget.
Amenities and More
Service options
Outdoor seating
Dine-in
Delivery
Takeaway
Highlights
Fireplace
Great beer selection
Great coffee
Great dessert
Great wine list
Popular for
Lunch
Dinner
Solo dining
Accessibility
Wheelchair-accessible entrance
Wheelchair-accessible seating
Wheelchair-accessible toilet
Assistive hearing loop
Offerings
Alcohol
Beer
Cocktails
Coffee
Quick bite
Spirits
Wine
Dining options
Lunch
Dinner
Dessert
Seating
Amenities
Bar on site
Toilet
Wi-Fi
Wi-Fi
Atmosphere
Casual
Cosy
Crowd
Groups
Tourists
Planning
Dinner reservations recommended
Accepts reservations
Payments
Credit cards
Debit cards
NFC mobile payments
Credit cards
Parking
Free of charge street parking
Pets
Dogs allowed
Photos
Reviews For The Debenham Lion
campden campden
Jun 16,2025
What an absolutely wonderful place the Debenham Lion is! We went to a Spring wine tasting event followed by dinner afterwards. The event was hosted by a highly energetic and knowledgeable expert on French wines and a quality local wine merchant. A really enjoyable and informative few hours - with a chance to buy afterwards. This was followed by an outstanding dinner - up there with the top gastro pubs I have been to, but sensibly priced and served by a wonderful staff. There are some delicious local ales on tap as well as the requisite Suffolk ciders. Cannot recommend more highly. Worth a diversion if you are anywhere nearby.
William Woodhams
Jun 15,2025
A wonderful village pub that gets everything right. Food is exceptional, booze all local and the historic pub is perfection. Must visit in East Anglia.
Flamoonigirl Olivia
Jun 1,2025
Finally went for drinks at our village’s new-old pub, but will come back for food soon. Everything looks amazing; such a beautiful renovation and the dining area looks especially wholesome; very dog friendly; warm fires; vegetarian food; recommended server: Alfie :) Cheers!
Maria Sarro
May 19,2025
A warm and welcoming village pub, friendly staff and delicious food. Having sampled both the lunch and evening menu, I cannot fault their food, it has been perfect every time. Compliments to the chef for making me the best brisket I have ever had. I will definitely be going back there again.
F Keane
May 9,2025
In the cool of this fifteenth century pub, in a lovely Suffolk village, we had the most delicious Sunday lunch at The Debenham Lion yesterday. I have always understood that one of the great tests of a chef’s love of their profession is their soup! Well the asparagus soup was faultles ... uncomplicated by bits and pieces, perfect in colour and texture. We could have had gallons! Then on to roast lamb with towering Yorkshire puddings, so enviously light, perfectly cooked vegetables, hidden under generous slices of lamb. Yummy crunchy caramelised pistachios liberally scattered on chocolate torte pudding that wasn’t over sweetened, and ice cream that made you look up and think what is this? Will we go again? Definitely....
Cambridge Jones
Apr 26,2025
Wow! What a treat this place is. Blew us away! We went for a drink and dinner on a busy Saturday night and experienced a quality of food and service that was off the scale. Warm, friendly, knowledgeable staff and cuisine you’d be hard pushed to beat anywhere in the UK. Highly recommend!
Samuel Reece
Apr 3,2025
Everything about The Debenham Lion exceeds expectations! Tucked away on the high street, this fully restored 15th century pub does not disappoint! The restoration is beautiful, fully capturing the charm and history of old England. The staff are friendly and attentive, and the food is 5 stars across all dishes! My wife and I visited for my 47th birthday, and I had a great time. Highly recommended!
Dr Ondine Barrow
Mar 31,2025
We had a wonderful evening - great service and delicious food. We are vegetarian and the options were delicious. The staff were charming and it felt wonderful to be enjoying such a great experience in a really pretty village.
Reviews For The Debenham Lion