Lincoln is a cathedral city in the East Midlands region of England. It’s about 140 miles north of London.
City population: 88,400
County: Lincolnshire
Cities and towns nearby: Nottingham, Hull, Sheffield
Places of interest
Cathedral
Lincoln Cathedral dominates the skyline. It’s the 3rd largest cathedral in England after St. Paul’s in London and York Minster. It was built in 1072 on the orders of William the Conqueror.
When it was completed, the central of the three spires was 160m high. This succeeded the Great Pyramids of Egypt as the tallest man-made structure in the world. The cathedral was the tallest building in the world for 249 years (1300–1549). The central spire collapsed in 1549 and unfortunately was never rebuilt. The cathedral is now just 85m high…
Did you know: The cathedral was used for the filming of The Da Vinci Code. The Cathedral took on the role of Westminster Abbey, because the Abbey had refused to allow filming inside.
Castle
Lincoln castle is one of the most impressive Norman castles in the United Kingdom. It is still possible to walk around the 12th century walls and they provide a great view of the castle complex, as well as panoramic views of the cathedral, the city, and the surrounding countryside.
Another attraction is the chance to see one of the four surviving originals of the Magna Carta (see below)
Magna Carta
The Magna Carta is an English legal document written in 1215, which had a huge influence on developing a legal system in England.
Many historians believe that the Magna Carta is one of the most important documents of all time. It changed England forever, by establishing that the King had to follow laws.
Only 4 original documents still exist. Lincoln castle is the home of one of them.
Steep Hill
Steep Hill is a popular tourist spot. At the top of the hill is the entrance to Lincoln Cathedral and at the bottom is the city centre. The Hill consists of quaint shops, tea rooms and pubs.
Newport Arch
During Roman times Lincoln was protected by four city walls. Newport Arch was the northern entrance to the city. Dating to the 3rd century, it is the oldest arch in the United Kingdom still used by traffic.
Christmas Market
The Lincoln Christmas Market started in 1982 and is one of the largest Christmas markets in Europe. Approximately 250,000 visitors usually attend the four-day event.
The market is usually held about three weeks before Christmas and it spreads around the castle and cathedral.
There are many stalls selling goods, food and drink. There is also a funfair, open air classical music and rock concerts and many other kinds of entertainment.
There is a really good atmosphere at the Christmas market, especially in the evenings when the cathedral is lit up.
