THE WHITE HART HOTEL Bailgate, Lincoln
The White Hart Hotel, Lincoln The Meaning and History of The White Hart Hotel The White Hart Hotel has stood proudly in the heart of uphill Lincoln since the 14th century, nestled between two of England’s greatest landmarks — Lincoln Cathedral, founded in 1072, and Lincoln Castle, built in 1068 by William the Conqueror. For more than six hundred years, this grand old building has been part of the city’s living history, welcoming travellers, royals, and locals alike. The name “White Hart” carries royal and mythic meaning. The word hart is an old English term for a mature stag, and the White Hart was the personal badge of King Richard II. He is thought to have taken the symbol from his mother, Joan of Kent, also known as “The Fair Maid of Kent.” Some say it was also a clever play on words — Rich-hart. The white hart appears throughout English history and art. In the Wilton Diptych, one of the earliest portraits of an English king, Richard II is shown wearing a golden white hart jewel, wh...
