I moved to Lincoln just under 4 years ago to begin my undergrad degree, and have got at least another 2 years to go living here until I finish my PhD!
Before I moved, I'd been a couple of times for the day, but I didn't really know what there was here! 4 years on, I know significantly more and decided to write a little guide for those who fancy a trip, or live nearby...
1. For me, the highlight of Lincoln is 'Steep Hill' and 'The Strait' (the main path to Steep Hill). These streets are filled with little vintage shops and quaint café's, that are an absolute delight! Personally, my favourite café is 'Coffee Bobbins', which is near the bottom... They have the most devine cakes and the decor is so sweet!
2. At the top of steep hill, you will discover the Cathedral (although it is far from a hidden gem -- you can basically see it wherever you are in the city!). It is absolutely stunning to have a wander around. It is free on Sundays and to students, although it is only open for private prayer at the moment, due to COVID-19.
3. The Bailgate area of Lincoln is the area between the cathedral and the castle, and is certainly my favourite bit of the city. It is full of tearooms, bakeries and independent shops and it well worth exploring... You can find most things you would want, including the perfect gift ideas - from sustainable living through to fashion and homeware!
4. The arboretum is another gorgeous part of Lincoln. It is like a park, filled with hidden gems and sections to explore - perfect for a chilled Sunday walk, or sunny picnic.
5. Another favourite of mine is Doddington Hall and Gardens. Although this is a drive from the city centre... It is simply lovely. My favourite part is the farm shop and adjacent restaurant.. The menu isn't huge, but the food is devine and the staff are always so welcoming and accommodating. This is probably the most random recommendation ever, but the gooseberry chutney from the farm shop is a must.. I grab a jar every time I go!!
6. West common. Now, I am most certainly biased on this one, because I live a stone's throw from it, but west common is one of my happy places in Lincoln! If you have me on instagram, you will see I often post a sunset pic on my stories... It is basically a big field, for those that don't know, but it is STUNNING. There are horses, and beautiful trees, even a small lake! If you haven't already, I would definitely recommend going for a wander in an evening, or on a sunny weekend.
7. I know this won't be for everyone, but the Bomber Command Centre is another beautiful area of Lincoln. Is it a fair (but manageable) walk from the city centre, and is absolutely fascinating. You can have a tour around the site by one of their volunteers, and grab some (delicious) lunch in their onsite restaurant! They even have an exclusive venue which can be rented for events such as weddings and birthdays.
8. Liquorice park is, in my opinion, a little bit of a hidden delight! There are so many access points to get in, but the majority of people end up walking straight past it! This place has so many hidden treasures (I find something different every time I go !!), including a lovely little community herb garden, wild blackberries (that feature on my breakfast basically every day of summer!!), wooden sculptures and beautiful hedge carvings of different animals! It doesn't take long to have a wander, so I would definitely recommend it for a sunny afternoon!
For me, they're my favourite bits of Lincoln, although I felt I should also include some places which have been recommended to me, but that I am yet to visit personally...
Hartsholme country park is meant to be an absolute delight, filled with local wildlife. It even offers camping, including 'glamping' pods!
Daisy Made Farm is said to have delicious ice cream, and has crazy golf too! This is a little drive out of the city, but I've heard it's definitely worth the trip...
If you do come to Lincoln, I hope you fall in love with it as much as I have. Under the same token, if there's somewhere incredible not on my list, please let me know what I'm missing out on!!!
As always, thanks for reading guys!
Stay safe,
B x
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