The Lazy Lion closes with future in doubt

Locals were shocked to see a sign on the door of the popular village centre pub, The Lazy Lion in Milford on Sea high street, on Monday 22nd September 2024.

The typed sign simply read:

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It is with a heavy heart and great sadness that we are having to close the business.

These have been extremely trying and difficult times to be trading in, But spiralling costs, staff shortages economic down-turn and inflation have made it incredibly challenging for hospitality.

We will be closed from Monday 23rd of September to assess our options.

We would like to thank everyone for their support over the last 5 years.

Iain x

The Lazy Lion

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The closure was unexpected, and whilst it is known that the pub trade has been suffering nationwide, The Lazy Lion seemed to be ok on the surface. But sadly, and obviously not.

It would be great to see Iain and his team return, but at this time the future of The Lazy Lion remains uncertain.

Thanks to a local group called ‘The Customers of the Red Lion’, who in October 2015 won approval for the property to be listed as an approved Asset of Community Value with the New Forest District Council, the now Lazy Lion should remain as a pub and should not be under threat for development.

Our best wishes go to Iain, his family, and his team for whatever the future holds. Hopefully there is a good outcome for everyone.

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About Iain's Time at The Lazy Lion

The original Red Lion was situated on the Lymington Road in Milford on Sea. That pub was demolished in 1787, and shortly afterwards re-opened on its present site in Milford on Sea high street.

Red Lion rebranding
 to The Lazy Lion in 2019

In 2019, Iain Robertson became the landlord of what was The Red Lion, and he renamed and rebranded the pub to The Lazy Lion. 

He also carried out significant refurbishing and remodelling to the historic building.

Iain had previously, and successfully, run The Monkey House in Lymington.

When re-opening following refurbishment, The Lazy Lion then featured a large bar, an original central open fireplace, many period features, a large garden with outside seating, a gazebo, and a children's play area. The Lazy Lion also had four comfortable double Bed & Breakfast Rooms.

Quality home-cooked food was served for breakfast, lunch, and evening meals. They also held a weekly Pie & Pudding Night. 

The dog friendly pub also had a Private Dining Area for up to 20 people.

Iain was a firm supporter of a number of charities and held regular fundraising events in The Lazy Lion, such as Quiz Nights and Charity Dinner Evenings, in aid of charities like The Movember Foundation and The Burnt Chef Project.

In February 2024, The Lazy Lion were presented with a Certificate of Achievement for their High Quality Food by the prestigious Harden's Guide.

In July 2024, Iain took on the Tour de France Stage Challenge, tackling a gruelling mountain stage in aid of MacMillan Cancer Support.

Iain and his team worked so hard to provide a service which was much appreciated by locals and visitors alike, it was a sad day to see the doors close on this popular village centre pub.

To read more About The Lazy Lion and the buildings fascinating history as The Red Lion, please click on the button below: