The Golden Lion Inn has existed since at least 1714. As well as a well-used public house, it was a meeting place for local societies. It gave its name to Golden Lion Bank, which leads from the river bridge to Flowergate. It is a Grade II listed building in the centre of the town’s Conservation Area. 

The current owners, Star Pubs, are planning a name change to the Salty Dog. This has already attracted a lot of negative comment on social media, and is likely to prove highly unpopular with locals. We ask Star Pubs to review the proposed change, and retain the existing name.