Secret Drinker reviews the Witch & Wardrobe in Lincoln
The Witch and Wardrobe may sound like it’s one beast short of a CS Lewis novel, but this likeable pub doesn’t appear to be lacking much else.
Inside there are no nods to Narnia but this beautiful building - which is rumoured to be haunted (my second spooky boozer in a matter of weeks) - is not shy of celebrating its name with nudges to the occult.
Bats, spiders and witches’ hats dangle from the ceiling and some rather Gothic, ritualistic artwork - plus the slogan ‘Life’s a witch and then you fly’ - hang from a wall overlooking the pool table.
The traditional ‘Gents’ and ‘Ladies’ signs on the toilet doors are replaced with ‘Wizards’ and ‘Witches’ logos while - and this is the best bit - there are plenty of potions awaiting you at the bar.
Despite sitting in the centre of Lincoln, along the Witham and now wedged in next to the Waterside Shopping Centre and the Cornhill Quarter, this building with a potted history feels very much like a local pub; lived-in but lively.
Over the years this 13th Century Grade II-listed structure has served the public as a fishmonger, chip shop, hairdresser and even a brothel.
When I popped in one lunchtime it was too early for even the most well-lubricated of drinkers to be on their backs, but everyone was having a good time.
There was busy chatter and plenty of laughter - or should that be cackles? - from groups sat by the window, round the bar and tucked away in an enclave around the back.
A group of young lads played pool, couples caught up and the barmaid busied herself by placing the lite-bites lunch menus onto tables but, in a telling sign of the atmosphere here, there were no lone drinkers.
The Witch and Wardrobe is a Marston’s pub, one of five in the city, including the popular Lion and Snake and Magna Carta.
The bar was well stocked and the building intriguing. All in all it’s a decent place to park your broom for the afternoon.
I’d be lyin’ if I said I didn’t like the Witch and the Wardrobe.
THE WITCH & WARDROBE, WATERSIDE NORTH, LINCOLN, LN2 5DQ
DECOR: A beautiful 13th Century building with very much a traditional pub feel, plus a few nudges to the occult. I didn’t see the spectre that’s rumoured to haunt the place. 3/5
DRINK: A big, fat shot of Directors Bitter (ABV 4.8%). Not a bad pint. 3/5
PRICE: I paid £8.45 for my pint and a pint of Carling. A good price. 4/5
ATMOSPHERE: The place was about half full but filled with chatter and folks having a really enjoyable liquid lunch. 4/5
STAFF: The young barmaid kept herself busy and was a friendly host. 3/5
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