Lincoln Travel Guide

Tucked away in a corner of the Midlands, the medieval town of Lincoln flies under the radar when compared to its neighbouring cities. However, quaint and quirky Lincoln really does have it all. This small cathedral city is steeped in history and it shows, from the Norman-built castle to the Gothic cathedral that stood proudly as the tallest building in the world for 238 years. Combined with fascinating architecture, mouth-watering restaurants, cute cafes and eccentric independent boutiques, Lincoln has something for everyone.

Written by Alice, a Lincoln local, this travel guide takes you through the best of the city. 

Best Things To Do in Lincoln

This list of the best things to do in Lincoln consists of all my personal favourites. Having studied here for three years, I know the city well. This Lincoln travel guide features something for everyone and most are budget-friendly too. 

Walk Up Steep Hill

A walk up Steep Hill is the best way to take in the city. The street is named well, coming in at the fourth steepest street in Britain, but don’t let that put you off! This quaint, cobbled street is lined with independent shops, vintage boutiques, tea rooms and restaurants that you can pop into if you need a break. The walking route will take you past some of Lincoln’s most beautiful architecture and history and ends at the castle and cathedral on the hill.

Lincoln Cathedral

Lincoln Cathedral can be seen from most points in and around the city, standing proudly atop of what must be the only hill in flat Lincolnshire County. This early-Gothic cathedral is one of the largest and most beautiful in the UK, declared by Victorian writer, John Ruskin, as ‘the most precious piece of architecture in the British Isles.’ History buffs will also be pleased to note that the cathedral holds one of only four original copies of the Magna Carta.

Lincoln Castle

Situated directly opposite the cathedral, Lincoln Castle is a beautiful blend of history and architecture. The castle was originally built by the Normans in over an existing Roman fort c.1066, however new buildings were being added as late as 1823. It is one of the best preserved castles in England and the courthouse is still used by the Crown Court to this day.

Bishops Palace Summer House

Standing almost in the shadow of Lincoln Cathedral, the medieval bishops’ palace was once among the most important buildings in the country. The well-kept grounds, winding paths and beautiful gardens with sweeping views over the ancient city and the countryside beyond, make this an ideal place to escape for some quiet or contemplation. 

Vintage and Pre-Loved Shopping

Lincoln’s quirky character makes it an excellent city for the sustainable traveller looking for vintage and pre-loved fashion. The walk along the high street and up Steep Hill is dotted with charity shops, vintage stores and pre-loved boutiques, making this the ideal city for stumbling across new ethically sourced outfits. Keep an eye-out for pop-up vintage fairs, which usually take place on the Lincoln University campus. 

Lincoln Christmas Market

Lincoln is home to the oldest and one of the biggest Christmas markets in the UK. Taking place on the first weekend of December each year, this 4-day market spreads from the cathedral, to the castle and beyond. It’s definitely worth a visit – avoid the crowds by experiencing it on Thursday or Friday instead of the weekend. It’s especially beautiful in the snow.

Best Places to Eat in Lincoln

Best Restaurants

Café Shanti (High Street) — There’s no restaurant that makes me miss Lincoln more than café Shanti. Lincoln’s cosy, nepalese-inspired café provides delicious plant-based food, including their famous ‘Shanti Burger’. It’s only small, so make sure to book in advance to secure a table, particularly on weekends. 

Madame Waffle (High Street) — Don’t mistake Madame Waffle for just a coffee shop! Although their coffee is awesome, it’s the waffles you’ll want to try. With unlimited combinations of sweet and savoury fillings and toppings, there’s something for everyone. Why not have a savoury waffle followed by a sweet one for dessert? 

Pimento Vegetarian Café (Steep Hill) — The original vegetarian café in Lincoln, Pimento is bursting with character from the minute you walk in off the steep cobbled street. Chow down on wholesome and hearty paninis or baked potatoes in the only restaurant built on top of a Roman wall.

Wig and Mitre (Cathedral Quarter) — A cosy pub/restaurant with a buzzing atmosphere, head to Wig and Mitre for traditional pub food sourced from local ingredients — make sure to try the twice-baked cheese souffle! 

The Cheese Society (The Strait) — This shop-turned-café serves up a cheese-centric menu for those with a pure & simple love of cheese and good food. From Welsh Rarebit to Tartiflete, everything is locally sourced and made to order.

Best Coffee Shops

Lincoln is saturated with great coffee shops and tea houses, but here are my favourites.

Coffee Aroma (High Street) — Ranked by The Sunday Times in the top 25 cafes in England, this Lincoln classic serves up artisan coffee, loose-leaf tea and grilled sandwiches. Stay late for coffee inspired cocktails and acoustic sessions. 

The Angel Coffee House (High Street) — Located in a reclaimed church vestry, you’ll find seasonal food, homemade cakes and vegan gelato at The Angel Coffee House.

Rising Café (Brayford Pool) — Serving up a great menu for a great cause, Rising cafe is a not-for-profit business employing formerly homeless and vulnerable people. This quirky cafe squeezed between two churches has a vintage atmosphere, a diner inspired menu and the best vegan banana milkshake, making it my favourite cafe in Lincoln.

Bunty’s (Steep Hill) — This traditional tea-room bakes the best cakes in Lincoln, perfect to pair with a pot of their loose-leaf tea. Situated half-way up Steep Hill, Bunty’s is a great rest-stop for those who are struggling with the incline. 

How to Get Around Lincoln

Walk — Lincoln isn’t huge and the best way to get around is to walk. The main areas (High Street, Steep Hill, Castle Square) are completely pedestrianised which makes walking around Lincoln centre a pleasant experience. 

Cycle — Hire Bike Lincoln is a simple bike renting scheme offering both pedal and electric bikes to make getting around the city quick and easy. Bike stations are available across the city and the cost is £3 per hour, or £12 per day. 

Bus — For those who don’t want to tackle Steep Hill, the Walk & Ride Steep Hill Shuttle ferries passengers between the Cathedral, High Street and Brayford Waterfront, stopping at locations of interest along the route. 

Getting In and Out of Lincoln

Train — The easiest way to reach Lincoln is by train, with direct services running from Nottingham, Doncaster or Peterborough, which are easily reached from major UK cities. 

Car — Just off the A1, Lincoln is also accessible by car, though parking in the city can be difficult. There is a Park & Ride service if you don’t mind travelling that last bit by bus.