6 Reasons Why Steep Hill in Lincoln Is a Must-Visit

If you plan a visit to the city of Lincoln, you will find that most of the attractions in the city are on a very long street called Steep Hill, a historic walking area, that links Lincoln Cathedral on its top to Well Lane in the bottom. This cobblestone street is famed for its gradient, which makes it extremely hard to go up and down. In itself, it is a challenging climb, but there are so many places to see, things to do, and shops to browse on Steep Hill Lincoln which make it worth your climb.  

 

Meet the Grandeur That Was Lincoln Cathedral

On top of the hill, you have Lincoln Cathedral to see. Built in Gothic style, Lincoln Cathedral is one of the monumental remnants of the High Middle Ages. For hundreds of years, it was assumed to be the tallest building in the UK, and even Europe. And in the present day, its glamour and remarkable architecture are what gives it universal recognition.

The exterior of this magnificent building combines immaculate design and natural beauty, and the stained-glass windows are eye-catching, and the stone ceiling and arches are spectacular. The cathedral is also known for the unique architecture of its vaults, making every area of the place distinguishable from the next.

The Lincoln Cathedral Library contains around 270 old manuscripts which are very rare and their topics span from theology and law to music and literature. In order to explore the whole place, there are guided tours available and the staff with a high level of expertise provide fruitful information which makes it worth your visit.

 

See the Glory of Lincoln Castle

At the top of the steep hill, instead of going to the Cathedral, if you take the Castle hill it will take you to Lincoln Castle. This Norman monument was first constructed during the 11th Century, and for years it has been used as a prison and a court.

Lincoln Castle itself consists of three main attractions:

• Victorian Prison: This prison was designed for what is called ‘separate system’, a confinement unit to make evildoers reflect and repent. As a visitor, you will be able to explore this system, look up the cells, and even hear prisoners’ stories.
• Medieval Wall Walk: This stone wall provides a wonderful walking path that gives a spectacular view of the countryside and the city.
• Magna Carta is a royal charter agreed between King John and the barons in 1215. The original charter is preserved in Lincoln Castle, and the section hosting it provides a great opportunity to explore the story of King John, and all the events leading to the signing of this seal.

 

Drop a Visit to the Norman House

Norman House is a stone building with Norman architecture which is believed to be built in the 12th Century. The building is at 46–47 Steep Hill. According to tradition, the house, upon its foundation, belonged to a Jewish Moneylender who went under the name of Aaron of Lincoln.

The building has significant historical value because it is one of the few examples of Norman architecture not categorized as a church or cathedral.

The building is now home to a shop in Steep Hill, called Imperial Teas, which sells all kinds of tea and coffee and their equipment. It also offers different chocolate selections that you can purchase. In fact, with the huge varieties and blends that it offers, Imperial Teas is one of the best tea shops for any tea lover.

 

Visit Harding House Gallery

For those interested in art, Steep Hill is also home to Harding House, an art gallery that features diverse collections of contemporary artworks. Apart from abstract and landscape paintings, the exhibitions include ceramic, metal, textile, and jewellery.

As many of the collections are for sale, you may find a beautiful piece of craft you want at a great price, and certainly won’t be leaving empty-handed. The staff are also very informative and can help you greatly with what you need.

The building itself was founded in the 15th Century, and therefore is a historical site and architectural landmark in its own right.

 

Go Straight to the Strait

At the bottom, the Steep Hill ends in a section called the Strait, which is as important as the Steep Hill for a wide range of independent businesses and fantastic buildings to behold.

Among the most significant sites to visit on the Strait are:

• Jew’s House: It is a 13th Century building, one of the oldest surviving houses in England. Along with The Norman House, it is one of the only remnants of the Medieval Jewish Community in Lincoln. The building has always been occupied and now is home to Jew’s House Restaurant, which offers great romantic meals in a very relaxing atmosphere.
• Jew’s Court: Next to Jew’s House, Jew’s Court is believed to have been a medieval synagogue and a meeting venue for the Medieval Jewish community of Lincoln. Now the building hosts a fascinating bookshop, with books on general topics as well as new or good-quality second-hand fiction and non-fiction books.
• Goodies of Lincoln: an old sweet shop, with a wide range of nostalgic school sweets.
• The Crafty Bottle: a fabulous beer shop, where you can try a wide selection of beer with the help of its knowledgeable and attentive staff.

 

Choose an Excellent Café for a Lovely Meal

When visiting Steep Hill for any purpose, you will definitely need a place to relax and have a drink or meal. Whether at the start of your journey or in the end, Steep Hill provides you with a lot of restaurants and cafés to choose from.

Some of the best restaurants and cafes are listed below:

• Bookstop café is an excellent place to have a fantastic coffee and great cake while sinking into a warm sofa. If you are stopping for lunch, you can try its fresh homemade sandwiches. It is not just a café but also a bookstore, and there is a great range of books by local authors to read and buy.
• Steep Hill Tea Rooms serves fantastic afternoon cream tea. The selection of wonderful scones and appetizing snacks leave you with a taste you will never forget. It provides excellent service with the help of its friendly and conscientious staff.
• Pimento is the best café exclusively for vegans and vegetarians. The menu has exceptionally fresh salads, and the relaxed atmosphere guarantees a delightful time.
• Browns Pie Shop is a fabulous resort to try the best array of pies. Many have tried the chicken and leek pie among others and they were totally satisfied. And all testify to the quality of its mushroom soup. In short, all the three courses you can have are absolutely brilliant.

 

Looking for Somewhere to Stay?

If you are in need of a place to stay, Alexandra Terrace Suite, located a short walk from Lincoln Castle, provides the best destination. This Suite, with a wide range of amenities, provides an ideal place for a long-term or short-term stay in Lincoln.