WHY?

Lincoln is an overachieving small city – combining its bustling, modern vibe with an historical backdrop straight out of a time-travel drama. Sure, it’s famous for its colossal cathedral, and the castle that’s been around since knights were the ‘influencers’ of the era. But it’s not all about dusty history. The city’s modern side is just as impressive, with a growing food and shopping scene that’s given Lincoln serious bragging rights as “one of the most exciting small cities in the UK.” Who knew?

Sandwiched between the rolling hills of the Lincolnshire Wolds and the tranquil waterways of the canal (used to transport good for 2,000 years!). It’s the kind of place where you can sip a latte in the city centre one minute and be rambling through the countryside the next. With direct trains to London in under 2hrs, it’s almost commutable to the capital.

EAT

Lincoln’s food scene is on the rise, blending classic British cuisine with trendy new spots. For breakfast, start at Bunty’s Tea Room, an award-winning, vintage café on Lincoln’s cobbled Steep Hill for a classic English breakfast with a view of the cathedral. For lunch, Ole Ole Tapas in the Bailgate brings a taste of Spain to the city, offering authentic dishes in family run restaurant . If you’re after something more upscale, head to The Jews House restaurant a Michelin-recommended fine dining spot housed in one of the oldest buildings in the city, with a menu that champions local, seasonal ingredients.

For dinner, The Bronze Pig offers a gourmet dining experience in the historic part of town, with locally sourced meat and game as the stars of the show. If you’re after a night out with friends, the Cosy Club serves up delicious cocktails and crowd-pleasing dishes in a quirky, vintage setting.

SHOP

Lincoln has a mix of independent boutiques, local markets, and high street favourites. Start at Steep Hill, voted ‘Britain’s Best Street’, where you’ll find charming bookshops, galleries, and artisan stores. The Cheese Society is a foodie’s paradise, offering an impressive selection of British and European cheeses, artisan Myers Bakery is a must for those with a sweet tooth and Goodies is an old fashion sweet shop for the ultimate sugar rush. Do try a Lincolnshire ‘yellow belly’ (a cross between a rock cake and a fruit scone). 

If you’re after quirky homeware or gifts, head to Object & Line – a contemporary interiors store that has a minimalist vibe. Lincoln’s Cathedral quarter is home to a variety of independent vintage shops for that one off quirky find – check out Lincoln Antiques and Collectables and the vintage market in the market square on the first Sunday of the month. Definitely don’t miss the newly refurbished Cornhill Market where you can browse for fresh produce, flowers, and handmade goods.

HEALTH & WELLBEING

When it comes to raising the heart rate, The Body Motion Company is your flexible friend, offering reformer and traditional pilates classes. For the cardio curios, Active Nation Birchwood offers spin classes, climbing and gym workouts – don’t be put off with by the soft play (sling the kids in while you workout). The surrounding Lincolnshire countryside provides endless outdoor adventures. The Lincolnshire Wolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty is a 30 min drive away, offering excellent hiking and cycling routes. If you prefer something less energetic, head to Hartsholme Country Park for a scenic stroll through woodland and around lakes.

COMMUNITY

Lincoln is renowned for its strong sense of community. Whether you’re looking to join a book club, take up pottery, or volunteer for local charities, there’s always something happening. Lincoln Drill Hall is the city’s arts hub, hosting everything from live music to theatre, while Lincoln BIG organises a range of festivals throughout the year, including the famous the Lincoln Farmers’ Market which takes place on the third Saturday of the month where you can sample everything from artisan breads to local cheeses.

NEARBY ATTRACTIONS

Lincoln’s cathedral was the world’s tallest building for two centuries – definitely worth a proper visit. And just down the road is Lincoln Castle, where you can channel your inner medieval noble while checking out a rare copy of the Magna Carta.

For outdoorsy types, Whisby Nature Park is the perfect place to pretend you know something about birds while taking in the wildlife. If grand country houses are more your style, try Doddington Hall’s for its Elizabethan charm and stunning gardens. They host events year-round, so there’s always an excuse to wander around like you belong there. And if you’re feeling extra cultured, don’t miss The Collection—Lincoln’s award-winning museum of archaeology and art. 

CULTURE

Lincoln’s cultural offerings are surprisingly varied for a city of its size. The New Theatre Royal puts on an impressive calendar of productions, from Shakespeare to big name comedy, touring ballets and family-friendly show. For film buffs, choose between the boutique vibes (and cocktails) of Lincoln’s Everyman cinema or the ODEON Luxe Lincoln, with reclining seats and in-theatre dining. Music lovers should head to The Engine Shed, Lincoln’s premier live music venue, which hosts everything from indie bands to comedy nights. If contemporary art is your thing, check out The Usher Gallery, where modern exhibitions sit alongside historical art.

AVERAGE HOUSE PRICES

The houses here are a mix of charming period homes with ‘character’ to shiny new builds. Average prices flirt around  £205,055 – so you get a lot of bang for your buck. Terraced houses are the budget-friendly option, averaging £152,875. Semi-detached go for around £202,706. Detached homes sell for £297,067. 

HOT PROPERTY

NURSERIES

There are plenty of excellent nurseries in Lincoln to choose from. The St Giles Nursery School is highly rated for its nurturing environment and experienced staff. Monks Abbey Pre-School offers flexible childcare options and has a great outdoor space for little ones to explore.

SCHOOLS

Lincoln is home to several excellent primary and secondary schools. Westgate Academy and The Meadows Primary School are both rated ‘Good’ by Ofsted. For secondary education, Lincoln Minster School, a top independent school, offers excellent academic and extra curricular opportunities from Nursery through to Sixth Form. The Priory Academy LSST, is a well-regarded state school with a strong academic reputation and diverse range of activities on offer.

BEST KEPT SECRET

Lincoln’s best-kept secret? That would be the glorious Arboretum, Just a quick walk uphill from the city centre, this Victorian secret garden is the perfect spot to escape the crowds and pretend you’re starring in a BBC period drama.

COMMUTE

Direct trains to London King’s Cross in under 2hrs, and regular services to Nottingham, Sheffield, and Leeds. The city’s train station is conveniently located in the heart of the city. For drivers, the A46 connects you to the A1, making travel to other parts of the country easy.

View the full Top 300 Best Places to Live.