Lincoln

Introduction

Lincoln (pronounced "Lin-kun"; pop. 86,000) is the county town of Lincolnshire. Renowned for its gothic cathedral and medieval castle, Lincoln was built on a lone (though steep) hill overlooking the surrounding plains.

Its distance from other touristic places means that most visitors do not bother to come here, although it is a satisfying stop on the way from London to York via Nottingham.

England's oldest canal, the Foss Dyke, which was dug up by the Romans around 120 CE, connects Lincoln to the River Trent 18 km (11 miles) away. Lincoln is also home to the oldest bridge with houses on it, known as the High Bridge (built in 1160), and two of the oldest residential town houses in the country, the Jew's House and Norman House, both located on Steep Hill and both dating from the 12th century. The Jew's House is now a restaurant, while Norman House has become a tea shop.

Interesting Facts about Lincoln

• Lincoln was originally an Iron Age settlement named Lindon, meaning "pool by the hill", referring to Brayford Pool and the hill where the city now stands.
• The Romans established a fortress called Lindum Colonia in Lincoln, which later became a settlement for retired legionaries.
• Lincoln Cathedral, built in 1072, was once the tallest building in the world for 238 years, reaching a height of 160 metres with its central tower and spire.
• The city boasts the only Roman arch in Britain under which traffic is still allowed to travel, known as Newport Arch.
• Lincoln Castle, built in 1068 by William the Conqueror, houses one of only four surviving copies of the Magna Carta.
• During the Middle Ages, Lincoln was one of England's major towns and became a significant centre for the wool trade.
• The Fossdyke canal, connecting Lincoln to the River Trent, is believed to be the oldest working canal in the country, built by the Romans to improve trade.
• Lincoln played a crucial role in the Industrial Revolution, becoming a centre for manufacturing heavy machinery, including steam engines and agricultural equipment.
• The city experienced a devastating typhoid epidemic in 1905, which led to the construction of the Westgate water tower to improve the water supply.
• Lincoln is credited with the invention of the tank, with the first prototypes built and tested in the city during World War I.

History

Lincoln was founded by the Romans as Lindum (coming from the Celtic term Lindu, meaning 'Dark Pool') shortly after the conquest of Britain, and was given the status of chartered town ("colonia") soon after, in 71 CE.

Lindum Colonia stood at the northern extremity of Fosse Way, a Roman road linking present-day Exeter to Lincoln, via Bath. Lindum flourished as a settlement for retired legionnaires, with several public buildings, but was eventually abandoned when the Romans left Britannia.

Lincoln remained a backwater for a few centuries until the Vikings came and established the Dane Law in 886. Lincoln then became one of five boroughs in the East Midlands.

After the Norman Conquest, William I ordered the construction of a castle (in 1068) and a cathedral (in 1072), both on top of the hill. In the 12th century, wool and weaving made of Lincoln of one wealthiest town in England, reputed for its fine dyed "scarlet" and "green". Robin Hood is even said to have worn "Lincoln Green".

Lincoln's fortune deteriorated sharply in the following centuries, hit by floods, plagues, ravaged during the English Civil War, badly situated for trade and left with no major industry. In the early 18th century, Lincoln had dwindled to a "one street" town.

However, the Agrarian Revolution of the Georgian era allowed it to prosper again as an agricultural centre. In the 19th century, railway further improved Lincoln's economy. The Industrial Revolution brought complex engineering to the city, and the world's first tank was designed and constructed by William Foster in Lincoln.

Main Attractions

Lincoln Cathedral

Lincoln Cathedral is not just any cathedral. Dominating the landscape from miles away, this building was the tallest building in the world (160m), and the first in history to exceed the Great Pyramid of Giza (146m) in heights when it was completed in 1280. It remained the tallest building ever errected until as late as 1884, when the Washington Monument was built in the USA.

However, the wooden spire collapsed in a storm in 1549, leaving the present building standing at 81m - still the highest cathedral tower in Britain today without a spire. Even rivaling with spires, only those of Salisbury Cathedral (123m) and Liverpool's Anglican Cathedral (101m) manage to surpass Lincoln Cathedral.

Historically, the first cathedral was built between 1072 and 1092, but was destroyed by a fire 50 years later. It was repaired and expanded, but was destroyed again in 1185 by an earthquake. Bishop Hugh of Avalon started the present cathedral, which was built in the 12th and 13th centuries.

A short walk South of the cathedral, the Bishop's Palace, also built in the 12 and 13th centuries, now lays in ruins, but once was the most important building in town. Its walled terrace garden is worth a look.

Lincoln Castle

Lincoln Castle is a significant historical site located in Lincoln, England. Built by William the Conqueror in 1068, it is one of the best-preserved Norman castles in the country. The castle stands on a site previously used by the Romans and features two mottes, a unique architectural trait shared with Lewes Castle in Sussex.

Attractions

• Magna Carta Vault: The castle houses one of the four original copies of the Magna Carta, a document that laid the foundation for modern English law. It is displayed alongside the Charter of the Forest.
• Medieval Wall Walk: Visitors can enjoy panoramic views of Lincoln and the surrounding countryside from the castle walls.
• Victorian Prison: The prison offers insights into life behind bars during the Victorian era, with restored cells and historical narratives.

Facilities and Events

The castle grounds are open to the public and include a café, gift shop, and facilities for families. Guided tours are available, and the castle hosts various events throughout the year. The site is accessible and welcomes groups.

Opening Times

Lincoln Castle is open daily except for Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, Boxing Day, and New Year's Day. Last admission is one hour before closing.

Top Museums

Lincoln Museum

Situated in the heart of the historic city, Lincoln Museum serves as a gateway to Lincolnshire's rich past. This comprehensive museum houses an impressive array of artefacts spanning millennia, from prehistoric times to the modern era. Visitors can marvel at Stone Age tools, admire intricate Bronze Age jewellery, and explore Iron Age settlements through detailed dioramas.

The Roman gallery is particularly noteworthy, showcasing the city's importance during the Roman occupation of Britain. Here, you'll find an extensive collection of coins, pottery, and everyday objects that paint a vivid picture of life in Roman Lindum Colonia. The museum also boasts significant Saxon and Viking artefacts, reflecting Lincoln's role as a major settlement during these turbulent times.

Interactive displays and hands-on exhibits make history come alive for visitors of all ages. The museum's commitment to education is evident in its regularly updated temporary exhibitions, which often focus on specific aspects of local history or archaeology.

Art Gallery

The Usher Gallery

Adjacent to Lincoln Museum, the Usher Gallery stands as a testament to the city's commitment to fine arts. This purpose-built art gallery, opened in 1927, houses a diverse and impressive collection that spans several centuries. The gallery's namesake, James Ward Usher, was a local jeweller and art collector who bequeathed his collection to the city.

Visitors can admire works by celebrated British artists such as J.M.W. Turner, whose atmospheric landscapes capture the essence of 19th-century England. The gallery also features pieces by L.S. Lowry, known for his distinctive urban scenes, and contemporary artist Grayson Perry, whose thought-provoking ceramics challenge traditional notions of art.

The Usher Gallery's collection extends beyond paintings to include decorative arts, timepieces, and enamels. Of particular interest is the Usher Diptych, a rare 15th-century devotional painting that exemplifies the exquisite craftsmanship of the late medieval period.

Local History Museum

Museum of Lincolnshire Life

Housed in a beautifully preserved Victorian barracks, the Museum of Lincolnshire Life offers a captivating journey through the county's social history. With over a quarter of a million objects in its collection, this museum provides an unparalleled insight into Lincolnshire's past.

The museum's galleries are thoughtfully arranged to represent different aspects of local life. Visitors can explore a recreated Victorian pharmacy, step into a 1950s living room, or examine agricultural implements that shaped the county's rural economy. The museum's collection of vintage vehicles, including steam engines and vintage cars, is particularly impressive.

One of the museum's crown jewels is 'Flirt', an authentic World War One tank. As one of the few surviving tanks from this era, it serves as a poignant reminder of Lincolnshire's contribution to military history. The museum also houses the Royal Lincolnshire Regimental Collection, chronicling the regiment's illustrious history from 1685 to 1960.

Archaeological Museum

The Collection: Art and Archaeology in Lincolnshire

This state-of-the-art museum, opened in 2005, combines archaeological finds with contemporary art to create a unique visitor experience. The building itself is an architectural marvel, designed to resemble a hangar in homage to Lincolnshire's aviation heritage.

The Collection's archaeological exhibits are arranged chronologically, allowing visitors to trace the county's development from prehistoric times to the present day. Highlights include a near-complete Bronze Age boat, Roman mosaics, and a rare Anglo-Saxon hanging bowl.

The museum's commitment to contemporary art is evident in its regularly changing exhibitions, which often feature works by local and national artists. The fusion of ancient artefacts with modern art creates thought-provoking juxtapositions, encouraging visitors to consider the continuity of human creativity across millennia.

Historical Sites

International Bomber Command Centre

Perched on a hill overlooking Lincoln, the International Bomber Command Centre is a poignant memorial and interpretation centre dedicated to the men and women of RAF Bomber Command. The centre's striking architecture, including the UK's tallest war memorial, serves as a powerful tribute to those who served and sacrificed.

Inside, visitors can explore interactive exhibits that detail the strategic importance of Bomber Command during World War II. The centre's digital archive is a treasure trove for researchers and history enthusiasts, containing personal accounts, photographs, and documents related to Bomber Command operations.

The Chadwick Centre houses thought-provoking exhibitions that explore the moral complexities of strategic bombing and its impact on both military personnel and civilians. The centre's commitment to education and reconciliation is evident in its outreach programmes and international partnerships.

Lincoln Medieval Bishops' Palace

Although now in ruins, the Lincoln Medieval Bishops' Palace offers visitors a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of medieval prelates. Built in the 12th century, the palace was once one of the most important buildings in England, reflecting the power and wealth of Lincoln's bishops.

Visitors can explore the remains of the Great Hall, where lavish feasts were held, and climb the viewing tower for panoramic views of Lincoln Cathedral and the surrounding countryside. The palace's undercroft, with its beautifully vaulted ceiling, is particularly well-preserved.

English Heritage has enhanced the visitor experience with informative displays and a herb garden planted with medieval varieties. During summer months, the palace grounds often host historical reenactments and cultural events, bringing the site's rich history to life.

Local Cuisine

Lincoln's culinary scene is a delightful showcase of Lincolnshire's rich agricultural heritage. Visitors to this historic English city can savour a range of local specialities that reflect the region's farming traditions. The star of the show is undoubtedly the Lincolnshire sausage, a coarse-cut pork sausage flavoured with sage, salt, and pepper. Another must-try is the Lincolnshire Poacher cheese, a hard cheese with a nutty flavour produced on local farms. For a unique taste experience, sample stuffed chine, a cured pork dish filled with parsley, or haslet, a savoury pork loaf. Those with a sweet tooth should not miss the Lincolnshire plum bread, a fruit-laden loaf often enjoyed with a slice of cheese. To wash it all down, try some locally produced spirits or ales from Lincoln's pubs and bars. Whether you're dining in a traditional tearoom, a cosy pub, or a fine-dining establishment, Lincoln's food scene offers a true taste of Lincolnshire's culinary treasures.

Shopping

Lincoln's city centre boasts a diverse range of shopping options, from high street favourites to unique independent boutiques. The vibrant High Street and St Marks Shopping Centre house popular retail brands, while the Waterside Shopping Centre provides convenient indoor shopping. For luxury and designer items, visitors can explore the modern Cornhill Quarter. The historic Cathedral Quarter, including Steep Hill and Bailgate, is home to charming independent shops offering artisan products, vintage items, and local specialities. Monthly markets in Castle Square showcase local produce and crafts, adding to Lincoln's varied retail landscape. With over 300 shops and restaurants throughout the city centre, Lincoln caters to a wide array of shopping preferences and budgets.

Nature in and around Lincoln

Lincoln and its surrounding areas offer a variety of natural attractions for visitors to explore. Just outside the city, Hartsholme Country Park provides over 200 acres of green space with ornamental grounds, wooded trails, and a reservoir. Nature enthusiasts can visit Whisby Nature Park, which features six walking trails and opportunities for birdwatching. The Lincolnshire Wolds, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, lies northeast of Lincoln and boasts rolling hills, hidden valleys, and diverse wildlife habitats. For coastal experiences, the Lincolnshire Coronation Coast National Nature Reserve stretches along 30 km of coastline, encompassing areas like Donna Nook and Saltfleetby-Theddlethorpe. Closer to the city, Lincoln Arboretum offers a Grade II listed park with gardens, a lake, and a children's play area. These natural attractions provide ample opportunities for walking, cycling, and wildlife observation in and around Lincoln.

Getting There & Around

Lincoln, a charming city in England, is easily accessible by various modes of transport. For those travelling by train, Lincoln Central railway station offers direct connections from major cities like London, with journey times of approximately two hours from the capital. If you prefer to drive, Lincoln is well-connected via the A1 and A46 roads, with the trip from London typically taking around three hours. Bus services, such as National Express, provide a budget-friendly option, connecting Lincoln to numerous UK cities. For international visitors, the nearest airports are Humberside (45 minutes' drive) and East Midlands (75 minutes' drive). Once in the city, Lincoln's compact size makes it easy to explore on foot, although be prepared for some steep hills, particularly in the historic Cathedral Quarter.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Lincoln, England, is during the summer months, particularly in July, when the weather is at its warmest and most pleasant. With average daytime temperatures reaching around 21°C and extended hours of sunshine, summer offers an ideal setting to explore the city's historic landmarks such as Lincoln Cathedral and Lincoln Castle. The season also features a variety of outdoor activities, including walking tours, open-top bus rides, and visits to nearby heritage sites like Tattershall Castle. Additionally, Lincoln's parks and gardens are in full bloom, providing tranquil spots for picnics or leisurely strolls. While summer is the peak tourist season with bustling events and attractions, those seeking fewer crowds might consider visiting in late spring or early autumn when the weather remains mild but the city is less busy.