Lincoln Area Guide

Lincoln is an idyllic corner in the UK, situated in the county town of Lincolnshire in the East Midlands region and known for its distinct spire-topped landscape and electric streets. Its origins can be traced back to the Iron Age, but first came to prominence when it was settled by the Romans who built a fortress here.

Today, Lincoln’s cobbled stone streets are rich with history and architectural landmarks, all brought to life by a thriving and diverse shopping scene, from high street favourites to unique independents and boutiques. This winning combination of a vibrant city centre and its historic Cathedral Quarter, both embracing their fascinating heritage and character, makes Lincoln an exceptional place to live, work and visit.

Highlights and attractions

Dating all the way back to 1091, Lincoln Cathedral is one of Europe’s finest Gothic buildings. Behold The mighty Father Willis Organ standing proud above the choir screen, the sun flooding through the captivating Teaching Window and the awe-inspiring Blessed Virgin Mary statue. The intricate detail of this gothic landmark is accentuated by warm touches of fun and whimsy; find the Cathedral’s notorious Imp hiding high up at the top of one of the pillars, or search for the biggest fossil you can find in the vast nave floor.

Lincoln’s unique medieval castle is the mysterious and fascinating place where kings and convicts once walked. Built during the late 11^th century by William the Conqueror, this major Norman Castle has been a symbol of power and punishment throughout the ages. The castle features three unmissable attractions all in one great day out. Experience the towers from 360 degrees by walking along the castle’s winding wall to take a journey through history and witness the spectacular views across Lincoln’s beautiful city and countryside. Visit the mysterious and harrowing Victorian prison and immerse yourself in the lives of its past prisoners and their daily routines. Visit the David P.J. Ross Magna Carta Vault and see one of only four remaining original Magna Carta, alongside the Charter of the Forest.

The city is split into sections with the Northern part, commonly referred to as ‘Uphill’, which hosts Lincoln’s historical quarter featuring Lincoln Cathedral and Lincoln Castle as well as the wealth of pubs and restaurants. To the north is the famous Bailgate shopping area and you can find the award-winning Steep Hill to the south. An attraction not for the faint hearted, but certainly worth the hike. Steep Hill is a must-see, from its self-referenced cobblestone incline to its wonderfully quirky independent shops, cafes, pubs and galleries sloping all the way down.

The Cornhill Quarter encapsulates Lincoln’s shopping variety at its best. Find all your favourite brands on this bustling High Street, finish the day with a luxury movie experience at the Everyman Cinema or take a break at one of the street’s exceptional coffee shops. Whatever you’re looking for, you’re guaranteed to find it in the Cornhill Quarter.

Lincoln’s Brayford Waterfront is England's oldest inland Harbour and offer a great selection of eating, drinking and entertainment venues. It’s the perfect place to relax overlooking the water or the stunning University of Lincoln campus after a hard days shopping.

Local schools

Lincoln offers a wide variety of highly rated secondary schools, including grammar schools, state schools and private/independent schools.

There is also a positively vast range of high achieving colleges and sixth forms throughout the city, along with one of the country’s most impressive universities.

Lincoln Minster School, Upper Lindum St, Lincoln – Lincoln Minster School is an independent co-educational day and boarding school for pupils aged 4 – 18 years based in the heart of Lincoln.

The Priory Academy LSST, Cross O’cliff Hill, Lincoln – A top performing co-educational partially selective academy school and teaching school situated in Lincoln rated Outstanding by Ofsted in 2019.

Lincoln College, Monks Rd, Lincoln – Lincoln College is a mixed sixth form college with over 1600 students, and was rated as ‘outstanding’ by Ofsted in 2015. The school offers A-levels and BTECs

The University of Lincoln, Brayford Pool, Lincoln – housed in a £61 million building, the University of Lincoln is spread over four campuses and offers over 600 courses to both undergraduate and postgraduate students. The university has an international reputation for research, with over 60% of its academic staff being recognised as world-leading experts in their field.

Travel and transport

Lincoln represents some of the best value country homes in the UK with excellent commuter connections.

Lincoln’s central location in the East Midlands allows for quick and easy access to London and other major cities, including Nottingham, Sheffield, Leicester, and Hull.

Lincoln Central Railway Station is located in the city centre, just a short walk from the University of Lincoln's Brayford Pool Campus. The station offers full accessibility for wheelchair users and direct trains to London King's Cross take around two hours.

By road Lincoln can be reached via the A1 at Newark (A46) from the South and near Retford (A57) from the North. The city is 40 miles east of Nottingham on the A46 and 40 miles south of the Humber Bridge on the A15.