Wig & Mitre - Lincoln

You're climbing Steep Hill—that proper steep bit—and suddenly there's the Wig & Mitre, tucked into a 15th-century building like it's always belonged there. Inside, it's all exposed beams and cosy corners, the kind of place where locals actually drink alongside visitors who've wandered up from the cathedral. The menu takes pub food seriously: proper pies, seasonal game, fresh fish done without fuss. Real ales rotate through, and they know their wine list. It's unpretentious but not cheap—expect to spend around £25-35 per head for decent food and a drink.