Merchants 1688 - Lancaster
Merchants 1688
Description
Descend into the vaulted charm of Merchants 1688 and discover a restaurant that feels like a well‑kept local secret. Housed under historic arches, the kitchen presents a rotating, seasonally inspired menu paired with a thoughtful selection of ales, local gins and cocktails—perfect for long dinners, anniversaries or a relaxed lunch after visiting the castle. Expect confident plates from hearty hotpots and asado to delicate ravioli and vibrant vegetarian choices, served by welcoming staff in richly atmospheric rooms. Come for the setting; stay for the food, drinks and memorable evenings.
Menu with prices
Images
Reservation request for Merchants 1688
Book Merchants 1688 for anniversaries or lunches; wheelchair access and group seating available. Peak times can bring waits—reservations recommended.
Feedback
Guests praise Merchants 1688 for its vaulted, cozy atmosphere, friendly staff and changing menu; some note occasional slow service and an isolated food-quality concern.
Had a wonderful experience here last Friday the 8th of May. Joel, our server, was top notch, attentive without being over the top, knowledgeable and helpful about food and wine choice, great asset. Food was fabulous, I had two starters, beef cheek and scallops, both delicious and interesting dishes with all elements equally tasty and relevant. My friend had the lamb hot pot and just raved about it all night! Highly recommend this place, if we're in the area again would definitely revisit.
An Interesting space with I treating structure.
Very nice looking place, the origins of the building are very old and inside are vaulted dining areas beatifully presented. There is an outdoor patio area at the entrance which catches the sun. The real ale choice is excellent and in good condition. The beer was well priced for such a nice establishment.
What an experience. Staff service was great, all very polite and knowledgable; super chilled atmosphere and the food was INCREBIBLE, big portions and all deliscious options. Cant reccomend enough.
This is always a very comfortable, good atmosphered place to come to. We had visitors and were a large group and they managed to sit us all down unannounced, just for drinks. Very happy with this place.
FAQ
More information
Merchants 1688 occupies vaulted, cellar-like rooms beneath the Castle Hill arches—many guests make it part of a castle-to-table routine. The menu rotates often, so regulars enjoy discovering new seasonal dishes and a changing roster of local ales and cocktails on repeat visits.
QR-Code for the menu
