The Royal William IV - Pub & Kitchen

You'll want to grab a table by the window if you can—the Brayford views here are genuinely lovely, especially as the light starts to go. The Royal William IV sits right on the wharf, which means you're away from the Cornhill bustle but still very much in the centre of things. It's the kind of place where regulars prop up the bar alongside visitors, the kitchen takes itself seriously enough without being precious, and there's usually a decent buzz without feeling forced. The food leans proper pub fare done well, and the drinks list won't disappoint.