The Lion Bicester

The Lion at Wendlebury – A Hidden Gem Just Outside Bicester Tucked away in the quiet village of Wendlebury, just minutes from Bicester Village and the M40, The Lion is a real find — the kind of place that perfectly blends countryside charm with modern comfort. Whether you're stopping by for a relaxed meal or staying the night, it delivers a warm and memorable experience. From the moment you walk in, The Lion feels welcoming. The interiors are a thoughtful mix of rustic and contemporary — exposed beams, soft lighting, and a palette of muted tones that create a sense of calm. The conservatory-style dining space is bright and airy, while the flagstone courtyard with its outdoor log fire offers a lovely spot to enjoy a drink whatever the season. The menu is solidly rooted in British pub classics, but elevated with care and seasonal, locally sourced ingredients. There’s something for everyone, with vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options available. The drinks list is equally well-curated, offering a good range of local ales, wines, and spirits that complement the food beautifully. For those staying overnight, the accommodation is just as impressive. The 13 boutique-style rooms are stylish, comfortable, and thoughtfully designed, with plush beds, modern bathrooms, and charming touches that make you feel right at home. It’s also family- and dog-friendly, which is a huge plus for many travellers. The service throughout is warm and attentive — the staff are friendly without being overbearing, and clearly care about making your visit as enjoyable as possible. In short, The Lion at Wendlebury is more than just a country pub — it’s a destination in its own right. Ideal for a weekend break, a stop on your way through Oxfordshire, or simply a great meal out, it’s a place you’ll be glad you discovered.

This was a second visit for my husband and I . This time we came with my brother and his wife as well. The food is very good and the price reasonable. We were disappointed that my sister in law could only have a small helping of ice cream as a dessert. We had notified The Lion that she required gluten free but there was no provision on the special lunch menu. and our message had been forgotten. My husband and I had the cottage pie which was delicious. but the other 2 had the gammon which was very tough with no steak knives provided. It was actually quite hard to catch a waiter or waitress as they were understandably busy in the bar and we were the only ones in the restaurant. This has not put us off, in fact we are coming again with 2 other folk next week. It just might be something to bear in mind. The venue is lovely and the staff pleasant. I hope that this is constructive rather than critical.