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Pints, Past Lives and Local Charm: A Visit to Two Lincolnshire Micropubs
I popped into two cracking Lincolnshire micropubs that mix history with proper community spirit. First up was The Crafty Local in Skegness, which opened in October 2023 and has quickly become a friendly little spot. The place has had all sorts of past lives, but now it’s buzzing again with good beer and a laid-back vibe. Later, I headed to The Whistle Stop Micropub in Grantham, tucked inside an old railway parcels office. It’s full of character, with railway bits on the walls and a cosy feel. Both pubs served great, easy-drinking ales and were perfect for a relaxed pint and a chat.
Skegness and Grantham, both in Lincolnshire, have pretty different but interesting histories. Skegness started out as a quiet fishing village before the railway arrived in 1873, turning it into a busy seaside resort. The Earl of Scarborough helped its growth, and Butlin’s holiday camp, opened in 1936, made it even more famous. Grantham, on the other hand, is an old market town that thrived thanks to trade and its spot on the Great North Road. It’s also known for being the birthplace of Sir Isaac Newton and Margaret Thatcher, and it played a big part in farming and industry over the years.
Skegness
The Crafty Local
The Crafty Local Ale House on Lumley Avenue opened in October 2023 and has quickly settled in as a friendly spot in town. The building’s had quite a journey over the years—it was once part of a college, later home to the Lincoln & Lindsey Blind Society, and even used as offices and flats before standing empty. Now it’s buzzing again as a pub, adding a fresh twist to its history. With an easy-going feel and regular folk music sessions, it’s carrying on the tradition of being a place where people come together in Skegness.
Step inside and you’ll find a cosy, no-fuss space that feels instantly welcoming. It’s got that stripped-back micropub charm—wooden tables, comfy chairs, and plenty of little corners where you can settle in for a chat. The walls often feature bits of local character, giving it a homely, lived-in feel rather than anything flashy. There’s no blaring music or fruit machines, just the gentle hum of conversation and the clink of glasses. It’s the kind of place where the atmosphere does the talking—simple, friendly, and relaxed, making it easy to lose track of time once you’re in.
On the bar a selection of 3 cask ales, alongside keg options and ciders. I went for “Midsumor Pale Ale” from Wickham House Brewery. A light, refreshing and easy drinking pale ale.
Grantham
The Whistle Stop Micropub
Next up was to The Whistle Stop Micropub. The Whistle Stop in Grantham opened as a micropub on 2 November 2019, transforming the old parcels office on Platform 1 of the town’s railway station into a cosy drinking spot. With its railway-themed décor and warm, friendly atmosphere, it quickly became a popular stop for both locals and travellers. The building had long served the station as a hub for mail and freight before being repurposed into a pub, giving it a unique historic backdrop. Though compact it makes clever use of space, keeping the station’s heritage alive while offering a welcoming pause for a pint.
Inside the Whistle Stop, the old parcels office charm shines through. It’s a small, cosy space with polished wood, simple tables, and railway memorabilia covering the walls, giving a clear nod to its station heritage. The compact layout means it feels warm and welcoming, with about two dozen seats that create an intimate, friendly atmosphere. Light filters in from the platform side, adding to the sense of connection with the railway outside. There’s also a small outdoor area tucked against the station, perfect for watching trains come and go. It’s neat, characterful, and full of nods to its past.
On the bar a line up of 2 cask ales, one of which being their own house beer, alongside a range of keg options. I went with their house ale “The Whistle Stop” brewed by Zest Brewery. Light, easy drinking and very refreshing.
Micropub Adventures 