Us Brits are all the same, the slightest bit of sunshine and it’s straight to the pub!

If you’re looking for the perfect spot for an alfresco drink, we have rounded up some of the best beer gardens in Lincoln. From rooftop terraces to secret hideaways, you'll find plenty of places to soak up the sunshine with a nice cold pint this summer.
 

The Pessimist

A favourite amongst locals, The Pessimist is an absolute haven, and a must-visit for fine wine connoisseurs. This stylish bar boasts the largest selection of wine, gin and rum in the region, and the team here are absolute experts in their field. To complement the extensive selection of drinks, there is also a menu of small plates, snacks and sharing platters – all of which are made in-house, fresh to order. If you want to enjoy your drinks alfresco, there is a lovely courtyard area outside, perfect for those long, sunny afternoons and warm, fairy lit evenings.
 

Duke William Hotel

One of the most popular pubs in Lincoln, the Duke William is located in the Bailgate area, close to Newport Arch. Cosy, warm and welcoming, this much-loved establishment has all the appeal of a friendly country pub.

The Duke is famed for their fantastic range of British craft beers, selection of local ales, and carefully curated wine list. The food menu here also showcases local produce, and features a great selection of light bites and hearty meals. Outside, you’ll be hard pressed to beat the Duke’s offering – there’s a terrace, a courtyard and a secret garden.


A row of tables set outdoors at Duke Williams beer garden

Prince of Wales

Recently renovated, the Prince of Wales overlooks the historic Bailgate. As well as offering a selection of different drinks, this welcoming pub is great for food. The modern menu here offers so much more than just classic pub food; You’ll find a variety of fun and unique dishes, perfect for sharing. The modest beer garden is a real suntrap, and hard to leave once you’ve secured a good seat. Arrive early to bag the best spot, and you can indulge in some people watching over a nice cold pint.
 

Lion and Snake

Thought to be one of the oldest pubs in Lincoln, the Lion and Snake is located right in the heart of the Bailgate. With Lincoln Cathedral as a backdrop, the beer garden here really draws a crowd during the summer months. A great place to grab some good old fashioned pub grub, you’ll find a spacious suntrap outside, with screens for sports fans. On a sunny day, you’ll need to arrive early – the benches here fill up fast!
 

Royal William IV

When it comes to alfresco dining in Lincoln, it doesn’t get much better than the Royal William IV. Not only is the food delicious, this traditional pub is situated directly on Brayford Pool, so you can dine right next to the water. Arrive early to get the best spot, and stick around til sunset – you’ll be rewarded with the most amazing views!

If it’s a breezy day, you can always walk along the Brayford to the Horse and Groom. Part of the same group, this pub has a slightly more sheltered beer garden, but the same excellent hospitality!
 

exterior view of the Royal William beer garden


The White Horse

Recently opened, this relaxed pub and restaurant is tucked away from the hustle and bustle of the High Street. The newly renovated beer garden at The White Horse is a real hidden gem, but one that won’t stay secret for very long! Enjoy a cocktail in the sunshine, as you work your way through the menu of delicious small plates on offer. If the temperature drops, you can always head inside to The Snug and warm up by the fire.
 

Craft

A hotspot for students, bustling bar Craft is best known for its eclectic cocktails, bottomless brunches and party atmosphere. You should have no trouble getting a seat, as Craft boasts one of the largest outdoor spaces in the city centre, it even has swings!

Head here in the evening for drinks, dancing and DJs, or visit during the day for a much more chilled vibe. Spend a lazy afternoon in the sun, and capture the perfect Insta snap infront of the graffitied walls.
 

the community gathered together for Lincoln's craft fair


The Victoria

Owned by Batemans Brewery, The Victoria is one of the best known cask ale pubs in Lincoln. If you’re a fan of real ales, there is always a wide selection on offer here. Although technically not a beer ‘garden’, The Vic has a fantastically vibrant outdoor space. Always buzzing with people, the spacious patio here sits at the foot of Lincoln Castle, overlooked by the medieval walls. During the summer months there’s often live music outside, so you can soak up the sights and sounds of the city.
 

The Pyewipe Inn

Located on the banks of Britain’s oldest manmade waterway, The Pyewipe Inn is a brilliant spot for a summer drink. Follow the Fossdyke Canal Trail from the Brayford in Lincoln and it takes around 20-30 minutes to walk here, with some lovely scenery along the way. Making the most of their idyllic waterfront location, The Pyewipe has a huge beer garden overlooking the canal. Grab a drink at the bar and you can relax in the sunshine whilst you admire the passing boats, or watch the local wildlife.
 

Exterior view of The Pyewipe and the trees and trail that surround it