The Strugglers Inn, Lincoln

Two bits of news prompted a visit after too long an absence: first, a pub of the year award from local Camra, and second, the long time licensee's retirement this month. It was good to be back, but perhaps our midweek afternoon was a bit of a low key time for a celebratory or farewell visit. My spirits were lifted by the Milestone Honey Porter 4.9%, a beer I hadn't seen for too many years - I'm not a fan of honey beers, but this one hits the spot for me. Other beers (there were seven on, out of 10 hand pumps on the bar) included some from local(-ish) Welbeck Abbey and Ossett, and an IPA from Horncastle which is just up the road. I must remember to come back again soon; I hope nothing too much changes.

Still one of my favourite pubs in Lincoln. Nothing has changed since our last visit, except that maybe a couple of the guest beers are more adventurous. The usual, friendly welcome with people moving up so that you can sit down. Good craic, well kept ale and friendly locals. What more do you want in a pub.

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