TOP 10 LINCOLN

With impressive historic and cultural credentials, this medieval beauty is perfect for a city break

- MONICA WOODS

While Lincoln rises from the surrounding fens like a beacon, it can sometimes seem that its beam is eclipsed by nearby Cambridgeshire, Norfolk and Suffolk. Nestled in the East Midlands, Lincolnshire is one of the UK’s largest counties, but with great swathes sparsely populated, it’s a calm corner of Britain to discover at a leisurely pace.

In such a decidedly flat landscape, it’s little wonder that the precipitous hill where Lincoln Cathedral now stands was identified as prime ground for settlement. First came the Celts, then, in 47 AD, the Romans, and William the Conqueror followed, overseeing the construction of the vast cathedral and castle.

The cobbled medieval centre of the 21stcentury city harbours the cathedral, castle and picturesque ‘village’ of Bailgate, all encircled by city gates. Uphill Lincoln, as it’s known, is linked to Downhill (the new town) by colourful Steep Hill.

Many of the establishments here have tales to tell. Jew’s Court, for instance, currently home to a historical bookshop, is thought to be the site of a medieval synagogue – there were thriving Jewish communities here in the 12th and 13th centuries.

Another tale long associated with the city is that of the Lincoln Imp, sent by Satan to wreak havoc on Earth. Eagle-eyed visitors will spot this legendary fellow atop a column inside the cathedral, where he was apparently turned to stone by one of the residents of the Angel Choir. But you won’t have to look too hard as you wander around Lincoln to find the naughty imp adorning decorative door knockers and all manner of gifts and souvenirs.