The Masons Arms, Louth, Lincolnshire: hotel review

This 18th-century pub, in one of Britain’s favourite market towns, has been spruced up – all modern angles and bold statements. But a few rough edges remain

There is a lot to like about the Masons Arms in historic Louth. The handsome, 1775 coaching inn had dwindled into a rather shabby pub – with outdated, rarely used guest rooms – when local businessman and farmer Charles Nickerson bought it at the beginning of this year. It closed for six months of refurbishment and reopened in August, offering something a little smarter than this market town was used to. Manager David Morgan stresses that it is “evolving”, still finding its way, but first impressions are good: behind the elegant, three-storey black-and-white facade, white walls and dark wood set off the generous proportions and high ceilings of the lobby, stairs and 10 en suite rooms.