About
Lincoln is a historic city in Lincolnshire, in the east of England. It sits on a hilltop, and its skyline is shaped by two landmarks: a Gothic cathedral and a Norman castle. Visitors come for the architecture, the old streets and the wide views over the surrounding countryside.
What to see
- The cathedral is the city's most striking building, rising above the rest of the town and visible from many directions.
- The castle is Norman in origin and gives the upper part of the city its historic character.
- Steep Hill is a cobbled street that climbs from the lower town towards the cathedral, lined with shops and tearooms.
- The medieval streets around the hilltop reward a slow walk, with older buildings and narrow lanes to explore.
The visit
Lincoln suits an unhurried day. Many visitors start at the bottom of Steep Hill and work their way up, stopping for refreshments and browsing along the way. The climb is steep, so comfortable shoes are worth bringing. Once at the top, the views across the surrounding countryside offer a clear sense of how the city was built on its high ground.
The city works well as a base for a mix of history, shopping and scenery. Its compact centre means that the main sights can be reached on foot, and the countryside beyond the hill is a pleasant contrast to the stone and cobbles within the city.
