Located in a quiet corner of the East of England, the city of Lincoln can sometimes be overlooked. Okay so it isn’t the easiest place to get to in the world (although this is soon hopefully changing!) but this almost adds an extra quaintness to the city.
Steep Hill, a cobbled street, lined with independent shops, tea rooms and restaurants that leads to and from Lincoln Cathedral.
Steep Hill first became used by the residents of Lincoln when the city was called Lindum Colonia and the Roman inhabitants decided to expand the settlement down the hill. Excavations has shown that the hill used to be lined by steps during that time.
Lincoln is split into two halves, the Cathedral Quarter which is the ancient part of the city, and the modern city down on the River Witham. The photos you see above are of Steep Hill, one of the most picturesque streets in Britain.
Steep Hill is the path connecting the Cathedral Quarter to the modern part of the city, it was originally constructed in the Roman Times as they expanded the city down towards the river, originally there would have been steps down the hill, now you just need to be careful not to slip!
Today, Steep Hill is famous for its independent businesses – vintage boutiques, quaint tea rooms, chocolate & fudge parlours, and more.
This steep, cobbled street, with a 16.12º gradient, was voted Britain’s Great Street in 2012 by the Academy of Urbanism.
I woke up early on Sunday morning so took the time to walk up and down Steep Hill whilst no one else was around. I would highly recommend setting your alarm and heading out at 7am as you feel as though you are taking a step back in time and into the most beautiful and quaint town you have ever seen!
For 300 years Lincoln Cathedral was the tallest in the world.
Lincoln Cathedral was named Britain’s favourite after a Twitter poll of over 27,000 votes, beating both Durham and York Minster!
Lincoln Cathedral is often described as one of Europe’s finest examples of Gothic Architecture, and you will understand why as soon as you take a step inside. It also owns one of four original copies of the 1215 Magna Carta (however this is housed in Lincoln Castle).
Find all your favourite High Street shops in the heart of Lincoln on the High Street
Lincoln’s High Street is home to over 300 shops and restaurants, including many of the country’s favourite high street names and a variety of locally owned specialist shops.
Whilst Lincoln might be a small city, it doesn’t mean you are missing out on shopping, restaurants and nightlife. The High Street, which is the main thoroughfare through the modern city is lined with over 300 shops, bars and restaurants. Whilst it is more in fitting with the 21st century, there are still a number of beautiful, historic buildings lining the way. Shops include House of Fraser, Top Shop, H&M, Next and many more High Street favourites.
The Usher Gallery is one of the region’s premier art galleries and is located next to The Collection in the heart of historic Lincoln
The Usher Gallery, along with The Collection, displays a fine collection of fine and decorative arts and plays host to a huge variety of contemporary art exhibitions throughout the year
Heading back up Steep Hill towards the Cathedral Quarter you can make a quick detour to the Usher Gallery. The Usher Gallery is known for miles around and is regarded as one of the region’s premier art collections.
Bailgate is one of the most historic parts of Lincoln’s Cathedral Quarter, where independent boutiques, shops and places to eat line cobbled streets
Wander the quirky streets of Bailgate, Lincoln, and discover a world of specialist shops including boutiques, crafts, book and gift shops, not to mention tea rooms and restaurants that line the cobbled streets
These quaint shops are surrounded by the remains of medieval Lincoln, black timber-framed buildings and even some hidden Romans remains
Whether you are looking for a taste of Lincolnshire’s finest produce from plum bread, sausages or Lincoln blue cheese to a one-off item of jewellery or a wonderful piece of antique furniture you are almost certain to find it in the Bailgate.
Past the cathedral is Bailgate, another one of Lincoln’s historic streets, lined with independent boutique stores and delis. You might also find a wonky house or two…oh, and some Roman remains!
Discover a world of rich history at Lincoln Castle, dating back to 1068 and home to one of only four surviving copies of Magna Carta.
Built by William the Conqueror in 1068 on a site occupied since Roman times, Lincoln Castle has dominated the Lincoln skyline for almost one thousand years.
No trip to Lincoln is complete without a visit to the impressive castle, dating back to 1068 on a site occupied since the Roman times. Home to one of just 4 original copies of the Magna Carta, the castle offers impressive views over the whole city, and especially the magnificent cathedral.
- A big thank you to Visit Lincoln who put together an itinerary for me so I could make the most of the city in the short amount of time I had. And thank you for organising accommodation and entrance into the attractions. Lincoln is a small but stunning city and a superb backdrop for a fun weekend getaway.
