The Cardinal's Hat: A Historic Lincoln Pub with Vibrant Charm
Historic charm meets lively atmosphere at The Cardinal's Hat, Lincoln’s beloved pub with rich drinks and cozy vibes.
Located at 268 High Street in Lincoln, The Cardinal's Hat is a lively and welcoming pub known for its cozy ambiance, extensive drink selection, and friendly service. This historic venue blends old-world charm with a bustling atmosphere, making it a popular spot for locals and visitors alike. Open daily from noon until late, it offers a warm retreat in the heart of Lincoln with inviting seating areas including a popular upstairs lounge and a beer garden.
A brief summary to The Cardinal's Hat
- 268 High St, Lincoln, LN2 1HW, GB
- +441522527084
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 12 pm-11 pm
- Tuesday 12 pm-11 pm
- Wednesday 12 pm-11 pm
- Thursday 12 pm-11 pm
- Friday 12 pm-12 am
- Saturday 12 pm-12 am
- Sunday 12 pm-11 pm
Local tips
- Try the pub’s selection of traditional ales and craft beers for a true taste of Lincoln’s brewing heritage.
- Visit the upstairs seating area for a quieter, more intimate experience away from the bustling main floor.
- On warmer days, enjoy the beer garden’s open-air ambiance with comfortable settees perfect for relaxing.
- Arrive after midday when the pub opens to experience a lively yet welcoming atmosphere throughout the afternoon and evening.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
The Cardinal's Hat location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Rain / Wet Weather
-
Mild Temperatures
Discover more about The Cardinal's Hat
A Storied Venue in Lincoln’s Historic Core
The Cardinal's Hat stands proudly on Lincoln’s High Street, a location steeped in history and local culture. The pub’s name evokes a sense of tradition, hinting at connections to ecclesiastical heritage and the city’s medieval past. Inside, the atmosphere is enriched by dark wood furnishings and vintage decor that create a cozy, old-world ambiance. This setting invites patrons to relax and soak in the historic character while enjoying modern comforts.A Diverse and Well-Curated Drink Selection
Renowned for its extensive range of beverages, The Cardinal's Hat caters to varied tastes. From traditional ales and bitters to craft beers and specialty IPAs, the pub offers a bold and flavorful drinking experience. The carefully curated menu includes malty ambers with spice fruit notes and crisp finishes, alongside rich crystal malt-flavored bitters. This diversity ensures that both casual drinkers and beer aficionados find something appealing.Inviting Spaces for Every Occasion
The pub’s layout offers multiple seating options to suit different moods and group sizes. The upstairs seating area is a favorite for those seeking a quieter, more intimate environment, while the beer garden provides an open-air option perfect for warmer days. Comfortable settees and well-arranged tables create a welcoming space that encourages lingering and socializing. The friendly staff contribute to a warm and inclusive atmosphere from the moment guests arrive.Community Hub with a Lively Pulse
The Cardinal's Hat is more than just a drinking spot; it functions as a vibrant community hub. Its lively yet comfortable vibe makes it a popular meeting place for locals and visitors alike. The pub frequently buzzes with conversation and laughter, reflecting its role as a social cornerstone in Lincoln. Regular opening hours, from midday until late, support a flexible visit whether for a casual lunch, after-work drinks, or weekend gatherings.Architectural and Cultural Significance
While the interior exudes vintage charm, the building itself contributes to Lincoln’s architectural tapestry. Its presence on the historic High Street places it among other heritage sites, enhancing the cultural experience of a visit. The Cardinal's Hat embodies a blend of tradition and contemporary pub culture, making it a memorable stop for those exploring Lincoln’s rich urban fabric.Accessibility and Visitor Experience
Easily accessible in central Lincoln, The Cardinal's Hat welcomes a diverse audience, including families, solo travelers, and groups. Its moderate price range and extensive drink options make it suitable for various budgets and preferences. The pub’s ambiance balances casual comfort with a unique character, ensuring an enjoyable experience for all who enter.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Exchequer Gate
0.3 km
Step through Exchequer Gate, a majestic 14th-century medieval archway guarding Lincoln’s historic heart between Castle and Cathedral.
Lincoln War Memorial
0.4 km
A timeless symbol of unity and freedom, the Lincoln Memorial stands proudly at the heart of Washington, D.C.'s National Mall.
Priory Arch
0.5 km
A majestic Victorian Gothic arch marking the historic entrance to Lincoln’s cathedral quarter and the ancient Bailgate street.
North Tower of the East Gate of the Wall of Roman Lindum Colonia (Lincoln)
0.5 km
Explore the impressive Roman North Tower of the East Gate, a gateway to Lincoln’s ancient Lindum Colonia and a testament to Roman urban grandeur.
Tupholme Abbey
17.1 km
Medieval monastery transformed: where Premonstratensian canons once prayed, Tudor mansions rose and farmland endured.
Sleaford Castle
27.4 km
Explore the evocative ruins of Sleaford Castle, a medieval fortress steeped in centuries of ecclesiastical history and local heritage.
National Trust - Mr Straw's House
39.4 km
Explore Mr Straw's House in Worksop, a historic museum showcasing the charm of Edwardian life through its preserved interiors and artifacts.
English Heritage - Sibsey Trader Windmill
42.1 km
Explore the enchanting Sibsey Trader Windmill, a historical landmark in Lincolnshire that showcases the region's milling heritage and stunning countryside views.
Waltham Windmill
42.5 km
Discover the beauty and history of Waltham Windmill, a stunning tourist attraction surrounded by serene gardens in the heart of Lincolnshire.
Creswell Crags
43.7 km
Explore Creswell Crags, a captivating archaeological site offering a glimpse into prehistoric life through stunning caves and rich history.
Lincolnshire Road Victims Memorial
43.9 km
A solemn memorial in Wyberton honoring lives lost on Lincolnshire’s roads, set within peaceful Sir Joseph Banks Country Park.
The Big Yellow Y - Gateway to Yorkshire Feature
44.2 km
Explore the wonders of Yorkshire at The Big Yellow Y, a vibrant gateway to stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage.
Boston Guildhall
44.7 km
Discover the captivating history and culture of Boston at the Boston Guildhall, a must-visit museum for all history enthusiasts.
Newstead Abbey
46.8 km
Explore the captivating beauty and rich history of Newstead Abbey, a perfect blend of culture, art, and nature in the heart of Newstead Village.
National Trust - Woolsthorpe Manor
47.4 km
Discover Woolsthorpe Manor, the historical birthplace of Sir Isaac Newton, where science and history intertwine in an enchanting English countryside setting.
Unmissable attractions to see
Lincoln Museum
0.1 km
Discover Lincoln’s heritage and art at the Lincoln Museum, a vibrant cultural landmark in the city’s historic core.
Lincoln Guildhall
0.3 km
Explore Lincoln Guildhall, a centuries-old civic landmark with royal charters, medieval artifacts, and Tudor architecture at the heart of Lincoln.
Medieval Norman House
0.3 km
Step into history with the Medieval Norman House, a rare 12th-century stone home nestled on Lincoln’s iconic Steep Hill.
Lincoln Medieval Bishops' Palace
0.3 km
Explore the evocative ruins and serene gardens of Lincoln Medieval Bishops' Palace, a symbol of medieval ecclesiastical power with stunning city views.
Observatory Tower
0.3 km
Discover sweeping city views and rich history atop Lincoln Castle’s iconic Observatory Tower.
Lucy Tower
0.3 km
Explore the historic 12th-century Lucy Tower atop Lincoln Castle’s motte, offering panoramic views and a glimpse into Norman England’s medieval past.
Witch & Wardrobe
0.4 km
A lively, affordable pub with quirky charm and riverside views in the heart of Lincoln’s historic Waterside district.
Lincoln Castle
0.4 km
Explore a millennium of history at Lincoln Castle, home to the original Magna Carta and stunning medieval ramparts.
Lincoln Cathedral
0.4 km
Explore Lincoln Cathedral’s soaring Gothic architecture, rich history, and vibrant community spirit in the heart of Lincoln.
Lincoln Cathedral Shop
0.5 km
Discover unique gifts and artisan treasures in a bright, contemporary shop supporting Lincoln Cathedral’s heritage and local makers.
Pottergate Arch
0.5 km
Explore the majestic Pottergate Arch, a symbol of Lincoln's rich history and architectural beauty, perfect for every traveler seeking cultural insights.
Westgate Water Tower
0.6 km
Explore the Westgate Water Tower in Lincoln, a stunning historical landmark showcasing the city's rich heritage and architectural elegance.
St Mark's Shopping Centre
0.8 km
A lively open-air shopping and dining destination in Lincoln with excellent accessibility and community events.
Peacock Inn
0.8 km
A welcoming Lincoln pub blending hearty British classics with lively sports and community spirit on Wragby Road.
Museum of Lincolnshire Life
0.8 km
Explore 200 years of Lincolnshire’s rich heritage through immersive exhibits, interactive family activities, and historic military collections.
Essential places to dine
The Rest Hotel
0.2 km
Boutique 5-star comfort on Lincoln’s historic Steep Hill, blending modern luxury with medieval charm and a renowned coffee shop.
Hobbsons Restaurant and Pie Shop
0.3 km
Savor traditional British gourmet pies in a cozy, historic setting on Lincoln’s iconic Steep Hill.
Premier Inn Lincoln City Centre
0.3 km
Modern comfort and friendly service in Lincoln’s historic heart, steps from the Cathedral and Castle.
White Hart Hotel
0.4 km
Historic charm and modern luxury converge in Lincoln’s vibrant Bailgate at The White Hart Hotel, steps from cathedral and castle.
Turtle Bay Lincoln
0.4 km
Experience vibrant Caribbean flavors, tropical cocktails, and reggae vibes at Turtle Bay Lincoln’s lively Central Market venue.
The Square Sail - JD Wetherspoon
0.4 km
Affordable waterfront pub in Lincoln offering classic British fare, quick service, and a relaxed atmosphere with scenic marina views.
Cosy Club
0.4 km
Eclectic dining and vibrant drinks in Lincoln’s historic Corn Exchange with a quirky, vintage-inspired atmosphere.
The Botanist Lincoln
0.5 km
A secret garden of botanical cocktails, seasonal cuisine, and live music in historic Lincoln.
Harvester Brayford Wharf Lincoln
0.5 km
Casual British dining with a family-friendly vibe and scenic riverside views at Lincoln’s Brayford Wharf.
Holiday Inn Lincoln, an IHG Hotel
0.5 km
Modern comfort and scenic waterfront views converge at Holiday Inn Lincoln, your gateway to the vibrant heart of Lincoln.
Duke William Hotel
0.6 km
Experience historic Lincoln hospitality with modern comforts, excellent British cuisine, and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of the Cathedral Quarter.
The Bronze Pig
0.6 km
Michelin-guided fine dining in Lincoln's historic quarter, celebrating local ingredients and Mediterranean-inspired creativity.
Mill Lodge Beefeater
2.5 km
Family-friendly steakhouse in Lincoln offering aged grills, classic British roasts, and hearty breakfasts in a cozy farmhouse setting.
Premier Inn Lincoln (Canwick) hotel
2.5 km
Discover comfort and convenience at Premier Inn Lincoln (Canwick), your gateway to exploring historic Lincoln's treasures.
Homestead
3.6 km
A historic Grade II listed countryside pub in Bracebridge Heath offering hearty British classics and a warm, inviting atmosphere near Lincoln.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Lincoln Antiques & Collectables
0.1 km
Discover timeless treasures and vintage charm at Lincoln Antiques & Collectables, nestled on historic Steep Hill in the heart of Lincoln.
Debutante Boutique
0.2 km
Affordable, stylish ladies' clothing and accessories with French and Italian flair on Lincoln’s historic Steep Hill.
Waterside Shopping Centre
0.3 km
Compact and vibrant shopping hub in Lincoln’s city centre with popular brands, eateries, and family-friendly amenities.
Primark
0.3 km
Discover affordable fashion and homeware for all ages in the heart of Lincoln’s vibrant High Street.
Pretty Little / Noa Noa
0.4 km
Discover unique ladies' fashion in the charming historic Bailgate district of Lincoln, blending style with personalized service.
Bo Peep Boutique
0.4 km
Family-run children's clothing and toy boutique in Lincoln offering quality brands and charming gifts in a warm, historic setting.
No.5 ladieswear boutique
0.4 km
Discover stylish designer ladieswear, handbags, and accessories at No.5 Ladieswear Boutique, Lincoln’s charming fashion destination.
Object & line
0.4 km
Discover unique gifts and charming treats at Object & Line, Lincoln’s boutique of curated creativity and personal service.
Follie
0.4 km
A charming independent gift shop in Lincoln’s historic Cathedral Quarter, offering unique home accessories, jewellery, cards and vintage-inspired finds.
Cornhill Quarter
0.5 km
Discover Lincoln’s Cornhill Quarter, a vibrant blend of shopping, dining, culture, and entertainment at the city’s lively heart.
Pre-Loved From Lincolnshire
1.1 km
Discover unique handmade gifts and quality preloved treasures crafted and curated by local Lincolnshire artisans.
Purple Holly
2.0 km
Discover stylish gifts and charming homewares inspired by Lincolnshire’s countryside at Purple Holly, your boutique destination in Lincoln’s Newporte Business Park.
Quayside Gifts
4.3 km
Discover unique souvenirs and local treasures at Quayside Gifts in Burton Waters, Lincoln – a perfect stop for memorable gifts.
Brant Road Shopping Centre
4.6 km
A compact and community-focused shopping centre in Lincoln with diverse shops and eateries open daily from early morning to late evening.
Birchwood Shopping Centre
4.7 km
A convenient and community-focused shopping destination in Lincoln’s Birchwood, offering diverse retail, dining, and essential services.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Cardinal's Hat
0.0 km
Historic charm meets lively atmosphere at The Cardinal's Hat, Lincoln’s beloved pub with rich drinks and cozy vibes.
Be at One - Lincoln
0.0 km
Lively Lincoln cocktail bar with 100+ drinks, 2-for-1 happy hours, and a vibrant atmosphere on High Street.
The Strait and Narrow
0.0 km
Lincoln’s quirky cocktail bar with inventive drinks, cozy nooks, and a unique social vibe featuring table phones for calling strangers.
Slug & Lettuce - Lincoln
0.0 km
Lively cocktail bar and restaurant on Lincoln’s historic High Street, perfect for drinks, dining, and social nights out.
Vice & Co
0.1 km
Experience expertly crafted cocktails and a stylish speakeasy vibe at Vice & Co, Lincoln’s premier cocktail bar on Corporation Street.
Carousel Bar Lincoln
0.1 km
A lively Lincoln hotspot blending inventive cocktails, street food, and arcade games for an unforgettable social experience.
Home
0.2 km
Lincoln’s lively bar and nightclub offering great value drinks, quality food, live music, and a safe, fun atmosphere for memorable nights out.
The Pessimist Gin and Wine Bar
0.2 km
Lincoln’s premier wine and gin bar offering expert pairings, locally sourced small plates, and a welcoming, stylish atmosphere.
Trebles
0.2 km
Lincoln’s lively and affordable evening bar with fresh decor, great drinks, and a welcoming vibe in the heart of Saltergate.
Still
0.3 km
A cosy, traditional pub in Lincoln offering great ales, live entertainment, and a welcoming atmosphere for all.
The Dandy Lion
0.3 km
Lively Lincoln pub blending craft drinks, hearty meals, and live events in a welcoming, casual setting on Newland.
Red Five
0.3 km
Vibrant bar with friendly vibes and affordable drinks in Lincoln’s historic city centre nightlife scene.
Lincoln Jazz Cafe
0.3 km
Lincoln Jazz Cafe blends intimate live jazz with masterful cocktails in a cozy vintage setting, a hidden gem in Lincoln’s heart.
Magna Carta
0.3 km
Historic charm meets lively pub culture in Lincoln’s Magna Carta, a multi-level venue with great food, drinks, and views of the castle and cathedral.
Lion & Snake
0.5 km
Experience historic charm and lively hospitality at Lincoln’s beloved Lion & Snake pub on Bailgate.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Popworld - Lincoln
0.1 km
Popworld Lincoln: Where cheesy pop hits and vibrant nightlife create unforgettable party nights on High Street.
Club Desire
0.1 km
Experience Lincoln’s vibrant nightlife at Club Desire, where luxury meets affordability in a lively, welcoming gentlemen’s club setting.
Sugarcubes Nightclub
0.1 km
Energetic and affordable nightlife in Lincoln with a unique cube-themed vibe and friendly atmosphere.
Void Nightclub
0.2 km
Lincoln’s stylish hotspot for electronic dance music, vibrant nights, and unforgettable clubbing experiences.
The Scene
0.4 km
Lincoln’s vibrant two-floor nightclub and LGBTQ+ venue, open nightly with diverse events and a welcoming atmosphere.
Lincoln Rock N Roll Club
5.6 km
A vibrant rock and roll nightspot in Waddington offering affordable drinks, energetic dancing, and a welcoming community atmosphere.
Charlie's Nightclub
27.9 km
Experience Coningsby's vibrant nightlife at Charlie's Nightclub, where lively music and a welcoming atmosphere create unforgettable evenings.
Club Angel
44.5 km
Experience stylish nightlife and vibrant weekend parties at Club Angel, Boston’s elegant hotspot for late-night entertainment.
The Brickworks
50.5 km
Nottingham's raw warehouse heartbeat: intimate DJ nights, killer cocktails, and pure underground energy in a brick-clad haven.
NG-One
50.6 km
A large, late‑night Nottingham club with multiple dancefloors, strong sound and long weekend hours — built for night owls and student crowds.
Eleven
50.8 km
A lively, multi-bar nightclub in Nottingham’s Hockley district, famed for great cocktails, student nights, and an intimate yet energetic party vibe.
The Bodega Nottingham
50.9 km
Intimate two-level live-music bar and late-night club on Pelham Street — gritty, affordable and centred on close-up gigs and local sounds.
Tantra Night Clubs
51.0 km
Dive into Nottingham's electric nightlife at Tantra Night Clubs, where pulsating beats, dazzling lights, and stylish vibes create unforgettable nights of dance and discovery in the city center.
Unit 13
51.0 km
Dive into Nottingham's underground bassline haven at Unit 13, where industrial beats and stellar DJs fuel unforgettable warehouse raves.
Love zoo
51.0 km
Dive into Nottingham's electrifying beats at Love Zoo, where house rhythms, dazzling lights, and cocktail-fueled nights create pure nightlife magic on Weekday Cross.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Lively
- Cozy
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly