The Pessimist Gin and Wine Bar, Lincoln
Lincoln’s premier wine and gin bar offering expert pairings, locally sourced small plates, and a welcoming, stylish atmosphere.
Nestled just off Lincoln’s high street, The Pessimist is a stylish wine bar and restaurant known for its extensive selection of wines, gins, and rums. With a welcoming atmosphere, expert staff, and a menu featuring locally sourced small plates and vegan options, it offers a refined yet relaxed experience for both connoisseurs and casual visitors alike.
A brief summary to The Pessimist Gin and Wine Bar
- Mint Ln, Lincoln, LN1 1UD, GB
- +441522701679
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Thursday 4 pm-10 pm
- Friday 4 pm-10 pm
- Saturday 12 pm-10 pm
- Sunday 1 pm-8 pm
Local tips
- Try one of the unique gin varieties, such as the Turkish Delight gin, for a distinctive tasting experience.
- Pair your drink with a small plate like the sundried tomato hummus or hot baked cheese for a perfect flavor match.
- Visit on a Thursday or Friday evening to enjoy the full ambiance and extensive drink menu.
- The staff are highly knowledgeable and happy to recommend wines or spirits based on your preferences.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
The Pessimist Gin and Wine Bar location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about The Pessimist Gin and Wine Bar
A Legacy of Lincoln’s Wine Culture
The Pessimist Gin and Wine Bar stands as a testament to Lincoln’s evolving bar scene, founded by Jo and Paul Bycroft, pioneers who originally opened Lincoln’s first wine bar, The Optimist, in 2014. After years of success and a move to a larger venue, The Pessimist emerged with an expanded menu and an even greater commitment to quality. This venue has become a cornerstone for those seeking a sophisticated yet approachable drinking and dining experience in the city.Exceptional Beverage Selection and Expertise
The bar boasts the largest selection of wine, gin, and rum in the region, catering to aficionados and novices alike. The knowledgeable staff are trained extensively in wine and spirit pairings, ensuring each guest finds the perfect drink to complement their palate and meal. Whether savoring a bold Barolo or a crisp Chablis, patrons benefit from expert guidance that enhances their tasting experience.Locally Sourced, Diverse Culinary Offerings
The Pessimist’s food menu is thoughtfully curated, featuring meat and cheese platters alongside a variety of small plates such as sundried tomato hummus, mackerel pâté with sourdough, fresh salads, and hot baked cheeses. The kitchen also caters well to vegan and vegetarian diets, reflecting a commitment to inclusivity and local sourcing. This culinary approach pairs seamlessly with the bar’s drink offerings, creating a harmonious dining experience.Atmosphere and Ambience
The venue’s interior is a blend of relaxed sophistication and unique charm, with décor that creates a chilled yet classy atmosphere. It is a hidden gem in Lincoln, offering a safe and welcoming space where guests can enjoy intimate meals or lively evenings. The friendly and attentive staff contribute to a warm environment that invites repeat visits.Community and Cultural Impact
Beyond its role as a wine bar and restaurant, The Pessimist has become a cultural hub in Lincoln, attracting locals and visitors who appreciate quality, expertise, and a convivial atmosphere. The owners’ dedication to hospitality and local engagement has made it a beloved spot for socializing, special occasions, and discovering new tastes.Operating Hours and Location
Located on Mint Lane, The Pessimist operates primarily from Thursday to Saturday evenings and Sunday afternoons, providing a perfect setting for weekend dining or relaxed Sunday drinks. Its central location makes it accessible while maintaining a tucked-away charm that adds to its allure.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Lincoln War Memorial
0.2 km
A timeless symbol of unity and freedom, the Lincoln Memorial stands proudly at the heart of Washington, D.C.'s National Mall.
Exchequer Gate
0.6 km
Step through Exchequer Gate, a majestic 14th-century medieval archway guarding Lincoln’s historic heart between Castle and Cathedral.
Priory Arch
0.7 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)
0.7 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
17.2 km
Medieval monastery transformed: where Premonstratensian canons once prayed, Tudor mansions rose and farmland endured.
Sleaford Castle
27.3 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
39.3 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
42.8 km
Discover the beauty and history of Waltham Windmill, a stunning tourist attraction surrounded by serene gardens in the heart of Lincolnshire.
Creswell Crags
43.5 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
46.6 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
47.2 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
Atmosphere
0.2 km
A lively karaoke bar in Lincoln’s city center, Atmosphere offers late-night fun and a welcoming social scene for music lovers and night owls alike.
Witch & Wardrobe
0.3 km
A lively, affordable pub with quirky charm and riverside views in the heart of Lincoln’s historic Waterside district.
Lincoln Museum
0.4 km
Discover Lincoln’s heritage and art at the Lincoln Museum, a vibrant cultural landmark in the city’s historic core.
Medieval Norman House
0.5 km
Step into history with the Medieval Norman House, a rare 12th-century stone home nestled on Lincoln’s iconic Steep Hill.
Observatory Tower
0.5 km
Discover sweeping city views and rich history atop Lincoln Castle’s iconic Observatory Tower.
Lucy Tower
0.5 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.
Lincoln Castle
0.5 km
Explore a millennium of history at Lincoln Castle, home to the original Magna Carta and stunning medieval ramparts.
Lincoln Medieval Bishops' Palace
0.5 km
Explore the evocative ruins and serene gardens of Lincoln Medieval Bishops' Palace, a symbol of medieval ecclesiastical power with stunning city views.
St Mark's Shopping Centre
0.5 km
A lively open-air shopping and dining destination in Lincoln with excellent accessibility and community events.
Lincoln Cathedral
0.6 km
Explore Lincoln Cathedral’s soaring Gothic architecture, rich history, and vibrant community spirit in the heart of Lincoln.
Lincoln Cathedral Shop
0.7 km
Discover unique gifts and artisan treasures in a bright, contemporary shop supporting Lincoln Cathedral’s heritage and local makers.
Pottergate Arch
0.7 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
0.8 km
Explore the Westgate Water Tower in Lincoln, a stunning historical landmark showcasing the city's rich heritage and architectural elegance.
St Mary's Guildhall - Display remains Roman road
0.9 km
Discover Lincoln’s medieval grandeur and explore the ancient Roman Fosse Way preserved beneath St Mary's Guildhall.
Museum of Lincolnshire Life
0.9 km
Explore 200 years of Lincolnshire’s rich heritage through immersive exhibits, interactive family activities, and historic military collections.
Essential places to dine
The Square Sail - JD Wetherspoon
0.2 km
Affordable waterfront pub in Lincoln offering classic British fare, quick service, and a relaxed atmosphere with scenic marina views.
Harvester Brayford Wharf Lincoln
0.3 km
Casual British dining with a family-friendly vibe and scenic riverside views at Lincoln’s Brayford Wharf.
Turtle Bay Lincoln
0.3 km
Experience vibrant Caribbean flavors, tropical cocktails, and reggae vibes at Turtle Bay Lincoln’s lively Central Market venue.
Cosy Club
0.3 km
Eclectic dining and vibrant drinks in Lincoln’s historic Corn Exchange with a quirky, vintage-inspired atmosphere.
Holiday Inn Lincoln, an IHG Hotel
0.3 km
Modern comfort and scenic waterfront views converge at Holiday Inn Lincoln, your gateway to the vibrant heart of Lincoln.
The Botanist Lincoln
0.3 km
A secret garden of botanical cocktails, seasonal cuisine, and live music in historic Lincoln.
Premier Inn Lincoln City Centre
0.4 km
Modern comfort and friendly service in Lincoln’s historic heart, steps from the Cathedral and Castle.
The Rest Hotel
0.4 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
0.5 km
Savor traditional British gourmet pies in a cozy, historic setting on Lincoln’s iconic Steep Hill.
White Hart Hotel
0.6 km
Historic charm and modern luxury converge in Lincoln’s vibrant Bailgate at The White Hart Hotel, steps from cathedral and castle.
The Bronze Pig
0.7 km
Michelin-guided fine dining in Lincoln's historic quarter, celebrating local ingredients and Mediterranean-inspired creativity.
Duke William Hotel
0.8 km
Experience historic Lincoln hospitality with modern comforts, excellent British cuisine, and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of the Cathedral Quarter.
Mill Lodge Beefeater
2.4 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
2.4 km
Discover comfort and convenience at Premier Inn Lincoln (Canwick), your gateway to exploring historic Lincoln's treasures.
Homestead
3.5 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
Primark
0.1 km
Discover affordable fashion and homeware for all ages in the heart of Lincoln’s vibrant High Street.
Waterside Shopping Centre
0.2 km
Compact and vibrant shopping hub in Lincoln’s city centre with popular brands, eateries, and family-friendly amenities.
Cornhill Quarter
0.3 km
Discover Lincoln’s Cornhill Quarter, a vibrant blend of shopping, dining, culture, and entertainment at the city’s lively heart.
Lincoln Antiques & Collectables
0.3 km
Discover timeless treasures and vintage charm at Lincoln Antiques & Collectables, nestled on historic Steep Hill in the heart of Lincoln.
Debutante Boutique
0.4 km
Affordable, stylish ladies' clothing and accessories with French and Italian flair on Lincoln’s historic Steep Hill.
Pretty Little / Noa Noa
0.6 km
Discover unique ladies' fashion in the charming historic Bailgate district of Lincoln, blending style with personalized service.
No.5 ladieswear boutique
0.6 km
Discover stylish designer ladieswear, handbags, and accessories at No.5 Ladieswear Boutique, Lincoln’s charming fashion destination.
Bo Peep Boutique
0.6 km
Family-run children's clothing and toy boutique in Lincoln offering quality brands and charming gifts in a warm, historic setting.
Object & line
0.6 km
Discover unique gifts and charming treats at Object & Line, Lincoln’s boutique of curated creativity and personal service.
Follie
0.6 km
A charming independent gift shop in Lincoln’s historic Cathedral Quarter, offering unique home accessories, jewellery, cards and vintage-inspired finds.
Pre-Loved From Lincolnshire
1.2 km
Discover unique handmade gifts and quality preloved treasures crafted and curated by local Lincolnshire artisans.
Purple Holly
2.3 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
4.2 km
Discover unique souvenirs and local treasures at Quayside Gifts in Burton Waters, Lincoln – a perfect stop for memorable gifts.
Brant Road Shopping Centre
4.4 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
4.5 km
A convenient and community-focused shopping destination in Lincoln’s Birchwood, offering diverse retail, dining, and essential services.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Pessimist Gin and Wine Bar
0.0 km
Lincoln’s premier wine and gin bar offering expert pairings, locally sourced small plates, and a welcoming, stylish atmosphere.
The Dandy Lion
0.0 km
Lively Lincoln pub blending craft drinks, hearty meals, and live events in a welcoming, casual setting on Newland.
Home
0.1 km
Lincoln’s lively bar and nightclub offering great value drinks, quality food, live music, and a safe, fun atmosphere for memorable nights out.
Red Five
0.1 km
Vibrant bar with friendly vibes and affordable drinks in Lincoln’s historic city centre nightlife scene.
Lincoln Jazz Cafe
0.1 km
Lincoln Jazz Cafe blends intimate live jazz with masterful cocktails in a cozy vintage setting, a hidden gem in Lincoln’s heart.
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.
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
0.2 km
A cosy, traditional pub in Lincoln offering great ales, live entertainment, and a welcoming atmosphere for all.
Slug & Lettuce - Lincoln
0.2 km
Lively cocktail bar and restaurant on Lincoln’s historic High Street, perfect for drinks, dining, and social nights out.
The Cardinal's Hat
0.2 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
0.3 km
Lively Lincoln cocktail bar with 100+ drinks, 2-for-1 happy hours, and a vibrant atmosphere on High Street.
The Strait and Narrow
0.3 km
Lincoln’s quirky cocktail bar with inventive drinks, cozy nooks, and a unique social vibe featuring table phones for calling strangers.
The Electric Bar
0.4 km
Elevated waterfront cocktails and dining with panoramic views over Lincoln’s Brayford Wharf.
The Horse & Groom - Pub & Kitchen
0.4 km
Historic 18th-century Lincoln pub offering hearty British cuisine, local ales, and a welcoming atmosphere just steps from the city centre.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Sugarcubes Nightclub
0.1 km
Energetic and affordable nightlife in Lincoln with a unique cube-themed vibe and friendly atmosphere.
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.
Popworld - Lincoln
0.2 km
Popworld Lincoln: Where cheesy pop hits and vibrant nightlife create unforgettable party nights on High Street.
The Scene
0.2 km
Lincoln’s vibrant two-floor nightclub and LGBTQ+ venue, open nightly with diverse events and a welcoming atmosphere.
Void Nightclub
0.2 km
Lincoln’s stylish hotspot for electronic dance music, vibrant nights, and unforgettable clubbing experiences.
Lincoln Rock N Roll Club
5.4 km
A vibrant rock and roll nightspot in Waddington offering affordable drinks, energetic dancing, and a welcoming community atmosphere.
Charlie's Nightclub
28.0 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
50.3 km
Nottingham's raw warehouse heartbeat: intimate DJ nights, killer cocktails, and pure underground energy in a brick-clad haven.
NG-One
50.4 km
A large, late‑night Nottingham club with multiple dancefloors, strong sound and long weekend hours — built for night owls and student crowds.
Eleven
50.5 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
50.7 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
50.7 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
50.8 km
Dive into Nottingham's underground bassline haven at Unit 13, where industrial beats and stellar DJs fuel unforgettable warehouse raves.
Love zoo
50.8 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
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Lively
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Art & Design
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Locally Managed
- 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
- Adult Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly