Lincoln is the county city of Lincolnshire and one of the most historically significant places in eastern England. The settlement has Roman origins and became an important medieval centre, with its cathedral and castle dominating the city from the hilltop. Lincoln Cathedral was once the tallest building in the world and remains one of the finest examples of medieval Gothic architecture in Europe. The city has retained a distinctive historic character while developing into a modern university, commercial and cultural centre.
Lincoln: Historical sights and information
Facts about Lincoln
- Latitude:
- 53.235516
- Longitude:
- -0.538440
- GPS Coordinates:
- 53°14' N, 00°32' W
The historical and tourist significance of the city
Lincoln Cathedral and Lincoln Castle are the city's two principal landmarks and stand opposite each other in the historic Cathedral Quarter. Steep Hill connects the upper and lower parts of the city and is lined with historic buildings, independent shops, cafés and traditional pubs. Visitors can also explore the Roman remains around Newport Arch and the medieval Bishops' Palace. The International Bomber Command Centre provides a more recent perspective on the region's history, while the surrounding Lincolnshire countryside offers attractive walking and cycling opportunities.
Food, shopping and leisure
Lincoln's historic centre has a wide selection of restaurants, cafés, pubs and independent shops, particularly around Steep Hill and the Cathedral Quarter. Local Lincolnshire produce features in many restaurants, including sausages, cheeses and seasonal vegetables. Spring through early autumn is particularly pleasant for exploring the historic centre and surrounding countryside, although the cathedral and museums make the city attractive throughout the year. Lincoln also provides a convenient base for visiting other parts of Lincolnshire, including the Lincolnshire Wolds and the east coast.