The Strugglers Inn, Lincoln

A wonderful place at the base of the castle walls and full of traditional character (CAMRA inventory listed too – regional), especially so on our pre-festive visit where the decorations and atmosphere were maxed out to 11. Absolutely rammed, and we were fortunate to grab two spare stools at the end of a table. Basically penned in so unable to explore much, beyond noting that it’s a two-room place (one is basically a snug) with lots of old pumpclips on display and a tiled log-burning fire. 11 ales listed on the blackboard from near and far. My Abbeydale Salvation was in very good shape. Really enjoyed my stop and having then gone down the hill to tick other far less good pubs, I wish I’d stayed here. The best two pubs on my evening were this and the Vic opposite, with this one edging it. Plan a session split between the two and you can’t go far wrong, I’d say. Lovely. 9.5