Discover the White Hart Hotel: A Historic Gem in Lincoln's Uphill District
To fully immerse yourself in the enchanting atmosphere of Lincoln, an English city rich with medieval heritage, plan for a stay of several days. For convenience, especially if arriving by train with luggage, consider lodging in the upper part of the city, accessible via shuttle bus or taxi. The ideal accommodation is the White Hart Hotel, a former Georgian coaching inn that has been elegantly reimagined as a boutique hotel, seamlessly blending quaint historical charm with contemporary comforts.
Elegant Accommodations and Notable Guests
Upon arrival, guests are typically greeted by a bowler-hatted doorman, setting the tone for a refined experience. Following a comprehensive six-month refurbishment in 2023, the hotel now features 49 beautifully appointed rooms and suites, alongside revitalized public spaces. Modern amenities, such as coffee pod machines, have been thoughtfully integrated while preserving a timeless elegance. Throughout the property, art and wallpaper adorn the walls, showcasing exotic plants, animals, antique illustrations, and portraits of Lincoln. Many rooms offer spectacular views of the city's majestic medieval cathedral, a true architectural marvel.
For instance, the Brownlow Suite provides a sitting room where one can enjoy a cup of tea while admiring the cathedral's imposing western facade. This suite has hosted a roster of distinguished guests over the years, including Tom Hanks, Margaret Thatcher, Omar Sharif, and Princess Anne. Guests can expect a restful night's sleep on a king-size mattress in the spacious bedroom, complemented by an almost equally spacious ensuite bathroom. Features include underfloor heating, a freestanding tub, double vanity sinks, and a walk-in shower, ensuring a luxurious stay.
Diverse Lodging Options and Aviation Heritage
Beyond the main hotel, the White Hart offers fully serviced accommodation in heritage-listed Georgian townhouses, as well as rooms in a half-timbered Tudor property across Bailgate, the bustling main street of Uphill Lincoln. While the area boasts numerous food and drink venues, the hotel itself provides cozy and convivial spaces for dining and socializing. Guests can enjoy a pre-dinner drink by the fireplace in the main bar or retreat to the snug lounge named after Guy Gibson, the pilot who led the famous Dam Busters raid in 1943. This bar is decorated with photographs of aircraft from World War II, reflecting Lincolnshire's history as "Bomber County," where numerous squadrons were based.
Aviation enthusiasts should consider a side trip to Lincoln's outskirts. The Royal Air Force Battle of Britain Memorial Flight Visitor Centre offers hangar tours featuring Spitfires and other wartime aircraft. Additionally, a 45-minute drive from the city leads to the Lincolnshire Aviation Heritage Centre, where Lancaster and Mosquito planes are displayed at a former Bomber Command airfield.
Military History and Culinary Excellence
The White Hart Hotel also holds a fascinating military connection. A heritage plaque marks the location where the prototype of the first modern fighting tank was conceived in 1915. Secret meetings took place in what is now known as the Tank Room, a space available for private dining events. Meanwhile, the hotel's main restaurant, The Antlers, captivates diners with dishes highlighting seasonal ingredients from Lincolnshire's coast and countryside. The menu features meat and vegetables from local farms, as well as seafood from the port of Grimsby.
For starters, the hand-picked white crab, dressed with pickled cucumber, brioche croutons, apple, and radish, is a standout choice. Served with a warm, cheese-infused scone, it offers a delightful flavor experience, though diners are advised to chew carefully to avoid any stray shell fragments. The main course might include a plate of Lincolnshire pork, featuring braised cheek, belly, tenderloin, and a potato and black pudding terrine with crackling, caramelised apple puree, and roast onion. A side of tenderstem broccoli, toasted almonds, and garden herb pesto complements the dish perfectly.
Dessert options, such as sticky toffee and stout pudding or a British cheese selection including Lincolnshire poacher cheese, are tempting, but the generous portions may leave little room. A three-course dinner at The Antlers, accompanied by a glass of wine, typically costs just over $100 per person. Service is consistently efficient and personable, extending from dinner to breakfast the following morning.
Breakfast and Exploration in Lincoln
The breakfast offering includes a continental buffet with fruits, cereals, yoghurts, and pastries, alongside a menu of warm dishes. On a chilly winter morning with temperatures around 2°C, these options are particularly appealing. For those seeking a lighter meal, oat porridge with walnuts and cinnamon is a satisfying choice, especially after indulging in a pork-heavy dinner the night before. Accompanied by coffee poured from a French press, this breakfast provides ample energy for a day of exploring Lincoln's charming streets and historical sites.
Steve McKenna was a guest of Visit Britain and Visit Lincolnshire. They have not influenced this story, or read it before publication.
Fact File:
- The White Hart Hotel offers nightly room rates starting from approximately £109 ($213), with suites priced from around £216 ($422). For more information, visit whitehart-lincoln.co.uk.
- To assist in planning a trip to Lincolnshire and Britain, refer to visitlincolnshire.com and visitbritain.com.
