White Hart Inn, Market Rasen

Similar to the Heneage Arms in Hainton where we had just come from, the White Hart is also located on an A Road (the A631) and also has very limited opening hours. Google states that it opens on Thursday, Friday and Saturday evenings from 6pm and on Sunday lunchtime. When we called up to check, we were told that they did not in fact open until 7pm. When we did arrive after 7pm on a Saturday evening, we were unsure whether we should enter through the side door from the car park or through the front door, especially when seeing the landlord scurrying through the pub, past the door and towards the accommodation at the rear. We entered the front door and eventually found the owner had been checking on his dog which had set off some sort of alarm. Two elderly couples and one other customer at the bar were present, all in the front room. There was a smaller room to the rear of the bar that was unused. 4 cask ales from Ferry Ales Brewery were on - Harvest Gold, Lincoln Red, Push The Envelope & Spirit of Jane. I ordered the Lincoln Red only for the landlord to find it was at the end of the cask. He immediately offered me its replacement which he would pour through. This was Just Jane. Instead, I opted for Spirit of Jane, which was in good condition. Again, I was wondering how the pub can keep 4 ales on the go, with such limited opening hours. Walls are covered with pictures and memorabilia featuring the Red Arrows and Lancaster Bombers. A friendly local. I quite liked it here. It's a pity that it's not open more often.

A dash across the countryside at speed limit-bothering pace in order to catch this one before afternoon closing, after seeing it named Lincolnshire CAMRA pub of the year whilst perusing one of their magazines in the previous pub. Odd on approach – it really doesn't look much from the outside. Inside is a large place in an L shape with red carpet and trim, with wood panelling and a proper fire. Five ales on over two banks, with some left-field choices. We managed to grab very good halves of Rudgate Choco Vanilla and Yeovil Quad. As the only customers (shame), we had a few minutes to speak to the licensees who were nice people. I liked it here, shame we didn’t catch it at a busier time. You should make a diversion to try it. 8.5

I visit this great little pub every couple of weeks or so. Landlord Mick is a real ale enthusiast,usually 4 or so different ales available every week.all very well kept. Good homemade food served in the comfortable lounge. Real coal fire in the basic bar. Pub is well worth a visit if you like your real ale,dont't ask for John Smith's.