Rachel's top 5 things to do in Lincoln

• 01 Dec, '20
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My name is Rachel and I’m the manager of at Gravity - IconInc’s brand new property in Lincoln. I’m a Yorkshire girl at heart, I am originally from Sheffield, but I’ve called Lincoln home for 12 years. I’m not sure if that makes me an official “Yellowbelly” yet, but I love it here and couldn’t think of anywhere else I’d rather be. (Tip: Yellowbelly is a nickname for someone from Lincolnshire!) If you’re coming to Lincoln for the first time and don’t know this amazing city well, you’re in for a treat for both living and studying. Lincoln has a great mix of history and culture with some amazing foodie and shopping spots too! I’ve put together my top 5 things to do in the city, I can’t wait to meet you all very soon! 1. Uphill Lincoln – the Bailgate. Lincolnshire is the second largest county in the UK and is predominantly occupied by flat rural countryside. Central to it all, in Lincoln’s town centre is “Steep Hill”. Separating the modern high street at the bottom of the hill, from the old historic cobbled streets of the Bailgate at the top, Steep Hill as it’s aptly named is as bit of a challenge to walk up, but completely worth it once you reach the top. If you’re like me and often don’t fancy the walk to the top of Steep Hill, there is a shuttle bus which can take you from the top of the high street to the Bailgate every half an hour. I couldn’t mention the Bailgate without telling you about Lincoln Christmas Market. The Christmas market is one of the largest in Europe, attracting over 250,000 people to the four-day event each year. Held around three weeks before Christmas, the market spreads around the entire Bailgate area, including inside the castle walls and cathedral grounds. Walking around this incredible outdoor Christmas market with a hot chocolate will be sure to get you into the festive spirit! 2. Lincoln Cathedral Situated in the Bailgate, is Lincoln’s historic Cathedral. Once the tallest building in the world, Lincoln Cathedral is a beautiful beacon of history within the city and can be seen on the horizon from miles around. Some of our apartments at Gravity have a fantastic view of the cathedral, adding that extra wow-factor (it’s definitely worth asking about when booking with us!) Lincoln Cathedral is famously home to the Magna Carta. The Magna Carta means “The Great Charter” and is one of the most rare and important documents in history as it established the principle that everyone is subject to the law, even the King. The Magna Carta was signed by King John in 1215, and guarantees the rights of individuals, the right to justice and the right to a fair trial. Not only is Lincoln Cathedral stunning both inside and out, it’s definitely worth a visit if not just to see this iconic, original piece of British history. 3. Lincoln Castle Stood proudly next to the Cathedral, Lincoln Castle shapes the historic Lincoln skyline and was built by William the Conqueror in 1068. The castle grounds are often used for a range of fantastic events such as outdoor cinema clubs, food festivals and outdoor music concerts. The castle grounds simply serve as a quiet, green space to relax with friends or study outdoors when the sun is shining. It’s worth taking a visit into the castle too, where you can walk around the original castle walls - you’ll find some great 360-degree views of the city! 4. Shopping! I must admit, I am a self-confessed shopaholic and I believe with everything moving online, it’s more important than ever to support local businesses and our high street stores. Lincoln town centre is filled with an amazing selection of both high street and independent brands. One of my favourite stores is called Agatha and is a women’s boutique full of beautiful designer pieces. Alternatively, Eqvvs is a stunning male and female clothes store, similarly offering a wide range of high-end designer brands. These combined with some of the most beautiful independent retailers in the Bailgate, Lincoln is the perfect place to treat yourself! 5. Eating & Drinking! Lincoln has an amazing selection of bars, pubs, restaurants and cafés in the city. In the town centre you will find a selection of your household names such as Pizza Express, mixed in with some stunning new additions to the city such as Marco Pierre White’s Steakhouse which overlooks the Brayford Pool waterfront and serves the most amazing fillet steak! The Bailgate has a fantastic selection of traditional pubs, restaurants and quaint tea rooms selling locally produced coffee and homemade cakes. Afternoon tea at Bunty’s Tea Room on Steep Hill is one of my favourite places to go with my friends! The most delicious homemade cakes served with locally made Stokes coffee! Top tip…. Don’t forget to head to the Duke William pub and ask about their secret garden (– it’s the perfect sunny spot and their best kept secret!)