The White Lion has a large lion on top of the central entrance porch. In 1999 it won the Britain in Bloom best pub display. It was acquired by Smiles Brewery and latterly Youngs of Wandsworth, London.
The Citizen, Friday 29th May 1987 – Dead lizard lunch: Dead lizards are to be served up to two daring Thornbury men in an unusual bid to raise cash for the Meningitis Trust. The two six inch long lizards will be eaten by pub landlord John Shipp of the White Lion at Thornbury and regular Brian Hartnell.
The lizards are at the bottom of a Chinese liqueur at the pub called Ma Zong She Chiew which is said to taste like brandy and is supposed to be a love potion.
John and Brian hope to raise around £200 for the Trust. The feast takes place at 10pm on Monday.
Licensing Details:
Owner in 1891: Josiah Hall (free from brewery tie)
Rateable value in 1891: £24.0s.0d.
Type of licence in 1891: Alehouse
Owner in 1903: Mary Ann Hall (free from brewery tie)
Rateable value in 1903: £24.0s.0d.
Type of licence in 1903: Alehouse
Closing time in 1903: 11pm
Landlords at the White Lion include:
1885,1891 Josiah Hall
1903,1906 Mrs Mary Ann Hall
1927,1939 Herbert Hy. Parsons
1987 John Shipp
1999 Phillip Litten and Joanna Botting
