7 of Lancaster's best pubs
Lancaster might not be one of the biggest cities in the UK, but it does have plenty of pubs – and luckily, some of them are actually pretty damn good. If you're looking for a good pint, you do not have to look far. Here are seven of the best, in no particular order, for your drinking pleasure.
The White Cross
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While its beautiful canal-side location makes The White Cross perfect for a cold cider on a summer's day, the bar itself is huge. The 130 year old building, formerly a cotton mill, has what is probably the largest cask ale selection in Lancaster – any ale aficionado will be spoilt for choice. The food is great too; the very affordable sharing platters and nachos are great options if you are in a large group.
The Sun
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If you're a fan of the great beers produced by Lancaster Brewery, head to The Sun as the brewery owns it. There is always a selection of Lancaster ales available, and are obviously kept in great condition. It's not just about Lancaster beer though: the rest of the ale selection rotates regularly, and there are some very interesting lagers (including a fruit beer which is worth a try). The Sun is also highly recommended for its cheeseboards – the selection is huge, and are definitely worth indulging yourself with while you are in Lancaster.
The Tap House
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The Tap House is Lancaster's craft beer haven. One of Lancaster's newest pubs – it only opened last year – it was until recently run by former Trev licensee Martin Hulland, and is now run by Jeremy Bethell, previously of County Bar. Here you will find what surely is the largest craft beer selection in Lancaster; if you are looking for a pint of Fosters you are out of luck. Great beers from renowned breweries such as Brewdog and Meantime are in abundance, as well as lesser known options – try Curious Brew, a lager from Kent brewed with Champagne yeast.
The Borough
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Located in a Grade 2 listed building on Dalton Square, The Borough prides itself on its local produce for its food. With a large restaurant area towards the back, this pub is perfect for food on any occasion. In fact, The Borough was named in the ‘Michelin Guide to Eating Out in Pubs’ in 2009 and 2010. Their wine offer is a bargain: buy any two main meals on certain days and you will receive a free bottle of wine. It is great for a drink too: the front of the bar has some of the most comfortable seating going. Grab a pint of Estrella Damm, put your feet up and relax.
The Stonewell Tavern
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The Stonewall Tavern is all about the music. With a dedicated performance area opposite the bar, this is one of few pubs in Lancaster that actually gets live music right as there is still plenty of space to stand and drink. The pub is easy to get to (it is located on Church Street near Domino's and Go Burrito) so is well worth a stop off on a night out. They also have open mic nights for any budding musicians; first stop Stonewell Tavern, next stop Wembley Stadium?
Merchants 1688
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Merchants is one of Lancaster's best kept secrets; hidden in 300 year old wine cellars by the Castle, you will find a dimly lit but ultimately cosy pub with a unique atmosphere that is perfect to warm up in. There is also plenty of outdoor seating at the front of the pub, meaning Merchants is not just for the cold months. While the beer on the bar is great, it is also worth venturing into the fridges; there are some brilliant (but strong) craft beers on offer, too.
The Robert Gillow
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Gillow is a treat: open late every night, with food served until midnight. A big draw here is the music – despite the small ('intimate' if you prefer) size of the pub, performers manage to cram themselves into the corner of the ground floor to entertain the masses. Combine this with great craft beer (Gillow certainly has the widest selection of Brewdog beers in Lancaster), regularly changing ales and a traditional atmosphere for a winning combination.
Reckon I've missed a diamond in the rough, or want to share your favourite pub? Let us know in the comments!
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