The Horse and Groom Puba Boaters’ Favourite at Brayford Pool on the Fossdyke Navigation

Horse and Groom Brayford Pool & Fossdyke Navigation pubs

For those travelling the historic Fossdyke Navigation, the oldest canalised navigation in England still in use, few stopping points are as welcoming and memorable as the Horse and Groom pub, located just a short walk from Brayford Pool in Lincoln. Known for its traditional charm, hearty food, and excellent service, this pub has become a popular choice among narrowboaters, cruisers, and holidaymakers exploring the waterways.

Whether you are mooring up at Brayford Pool overnight, cruising the Fossdyke towards Saxilby, or connecting onto the River Witham, the Horse and Groom offers everything a boater could want: good food, a friendly pint, and a warm welcome after a long day at the tiller.

A Perfect Location for Boaters on the Fossdyke

The Fossdyke Navigation is a waterway of immense historical importance, dating back to Roman times. Linking the River Trent at Torksey with the River Witham in Lincoln, it’s a well-travelled route for narrowboats, widebeams, and cruisers alike. Brayford Pool, a large natural lake in the heart of Lincoln, acts as a central mooring and turning basin.

The Horse and Groom enjoys a superb location just a stone’s throw from this iconic boating hub. After tying up at one of the visitor moorings around Brayford Pool, boaters can take a short stroll to the pub, making it an easy and convenient choice for an evening meal or a drink.

For canal users, proximity matters—no one wants a long trek after a day’s cruising. The Horse and Groom ticks the box for accessibility, while also providing a true taste of Lincoln hospitality.

Food and Drink to Please Every Palate

The Horse and Groom has earned a reputation among both locals and visiting boaters for its delicious, home-cooked pub food. Expect generous portions of British classics such as fish and chips, steak and ale pie, and Sunday roasts that will satisfy the hungriest crew. There are also lighter bites, vegetarian dishes, and desserts that make it equally appealing for families and groups.

The drinks menu offers a well-stocked bar with local ales, fine wines, and refreshing lagers—perfect for winding down after navigating the locks and waters of the Fossdyke. Many boaters appreciate the chance to sample beers brewed in Lincolnshire, connecting the experience of local waterways with local produce.

Atmosphere and Setting

Step inside the Horse and Groom and you’ll be greeted by a warm, traditional pub atmosphere. With its rustic interiors, cosy seating, and friendly service, it’s the kind of place where boaters feel instantly at home. For those arriving in the warmer months, the outdoor seating area is ideal for enjoying a drink in the sun while discussing cruising plans for the days ahead.

Boaters who travel with pets will also appreciate that the Horse and Groom is dog-friendly, making it a natural choice for those with four-legged crew members.

Why Boaters on the Fossdyke Choose the Horse and Groom

• Close to Brayford Pool – Easy access from moorings without the need for taxis or long walks
• Great Food – Hearty meals to refuel after a long day on the water
• Local Ales – A chance to sample regional brews and support Lincolnshire producers
• Friendly Welcome – Staff are used to catering for canal users and holidaymakers
• Historic Setting – A traditional English pub atmosphere, right in the heart of a historic boating city

Exploring Lincoln from the Horse and Groom

For boaters spending more than one night at Brayford Pool, the Horse and Groom also serves as a perfect base to explore the city of Lincoln. The cathedral, castle, and steep hill district are all within walking distance, making a stop here both a boating necessity and a cultural highlight.

Many boaters plan their trips on the Fossdyke Navigation to include at least one night in Lincoln, and the Horse and Groom is consistently recommended as part of that experience.

Practical Information for Boaters

• Moorings: Visitor moorings are available at Brayford Pool, close to the pub
• Walking Distance: Approximately 5–10 minutes from the water’s edge
• Facilities: The pub serves lunch, dinner, drinks, and Sunday roasts. Dog-friendly
• Navigation Notes: Brayford Pool offers a turning basin, and connections from the River Witham are straightforward for those continuing their journey towards Boston or upstream towards Torksey and the River Trent

A Must-Visit Pub on the Fossdyke Navigation

For those navigating the Fossdyke, the Horse and Groom near Brayford Pool is far more than just a convenient stop—it’s part of the boating experience. With its combination of location, food, drink, and atmosphere, it captures the very essence of what boaters seek when mooring up after a day on the water.

Whether you are on a narrowboat holiday, a liveaboard cruiser, or simply enjoying a weekend break, the Horse and Groom offers a place to relax, recharge, and connect with the local community. For many, no trip along the Fossdyke Navigation feels complete without a visit to this welcoming Lincoln pub.