The Bull - East Lindsey

We stopped off in Horncastle on our way home for some lunch. Being a Sunday the town was mainly shut. Looking for food the menu outside looked great so we gave it a try. After we found the access through the archway it opened into a pretty courtyard. We entered the Bull and asked if they were serving food. We were told yes but was moaned at because we had not booked in advance (we were passing through so obviously couldn't) to which we said that being tourists we wanted to see what was available. We were served by a grumpy blonde lass who didn't want to be there and served me a coke in a dirty glass with hair stuck to it. When I asked for a clean glass she swiped it away with no word or apologies and got me a fresh one. We took our drinks outside and a menu but decided after the frosty reception and attitude we would eat elsewhere. We would not be returning again.

I feel compelled to write a review as a family who made a a VERY last minute booking. We were accommodated incredibly well and not only that, as the only family with kids in the place at the time eating in the bar/lounge area, rather than being rushed or shushed, we were treated impeccably. The children were made to feel welcome, the food was brilliant really tasty and really well priced, great choice of beers ale's and the Ice Cream treat for the girls afterwards was lovely. Thanks for making a last minute dinner feel so great!

We went for the Sunday carvery. As a vegan, I usually ring the restaurant personally prior to booking to check if they can cater for my requirements. I spoke to the chef who came across as very friendly and helpful. He assured me he would be able to fix something up for me. He did not disappoint. On the day, he made a dish perfectly suited to my dietary preferences. He even explained the recipe and gave me a complimentary bottle of vegan relish to flavour my own meals. He also made a dessert and sauce especially for me and again explained how he did it. I would give the chef 5 stars because he went the extra mile for me. He made an effort and nothing was too much trouble. You don't come across that level of dedication too often. I have only given an overall score of 3 stars because of the level of cleanliness which could be improved upon i.e. a few cobwebs, a dead spider in the toilet, some visable dust and some flaking paint on the walls. There were plenty of people in the bar when we left providing a pleasant atmosphere. I would be happy to visit this restaurant again.

I've been in Horncastle on business twice once on a Monday, once on a Tuesday and both times found the town mostly closed for business in the evenings. This time, just as I was on the point of deciding people in Lincolnshire must have a tradition of fasting on a Tuesday evening, I came across The Bull. This attractive old coaching hotel looked inviting, and the staff offered me a friendly welcome. The warmly lit, high ceilinged interior of this Georgian inn was full of diners (Yes on a Tuesday! Take note, other restauranteurs of Horncastle) and the ambiance was convivial. The selection of beers behind the bar was good and the two pints I drank were tasty and well kept. I was presented with two bar menus, a separate burger menu and shown a fish menu and a steak menu on the wall. (I understand tapas is also available at weekends). Quite a choice! The bar menus largely consisted of what you might call traditional pub grub of the best kind. Within that massive choice, there must have been at least half a dozen dishes I was really tempted by but, eventually, I plumped for the cauliflower soup followed by the pork belly, mash, peas and apple gravy. Both courses were outstanding and extremely generous in size, especially the pork belly. My only disappointment was that I hadn't room in my distended belly to squeeze in a spotted dick for pudding! My bill, for such a large and excellent meal, was very modest. All in all, I thoroughly enjoyed my dinner at The Bull and would definitely eat and/or drink there again.

We booked for the tapas menu as a party of 4 3 of us had been several times before but my husband was keen to try it. We all thoroughly enjoyed our meals. We ordered a varied selection of foods between us and every...