It starts here...
If you’re coming to Lincoln for the Lloyds Tour of Britain, you’re in for something really special. On Wednesday 2nd September, some of the world’s best cyclists will tackle one of Britain’s most iconic city-centre finishes; starting in the shadows of Lincoln Cathedral, then heading out into The Lincolnshire Wolds, before racing back through the heart of our beautiful city and the infamous Michaelgate hill climb.
But don’t just come for the race, here's my advice.
I’ve had my little pink shop, Follie, on Bailgate for over 20 years, and if there’s one thing I’ve learnt, it’s that the best part of Lincoln isn’t just one attraction. It’s wandering the cobbled streets, discovering independent shops, finding a great coffee, stopping for an ice cream, exploring centuries of history and stumbling across those little moments that make you want to come back.
So whether you’re here for a couple of hours or making an overnight trip of it, here’s my own guide to some of the places I think make Lincoln so special.
Start the day right...
Whether you've travelled just for the race or you're planning a full day exploring Lincoln, you'll need somewhere to fuel up first.
It’s impossible to walk past Nonna Juanna's without being tempted inside. Their pastries are absolutely delicious, the coffee is excellent, and if you’re staying a little longer, the paninis and cheesecakes are well worth making room for.
For coffee lovers, Coffee Culture is another favourite. They serve a fantastic range of coffees alongside plenty of sweet treats, with gluten & dairy-free options too. Sit in a window seat and watch the race go by, or relax in their Mediterranean-style courtyard garden.
If you'd like to be right on the race route, Coffee by The Arch, sits beside Newport Arch with a front-row view of the action.
shop independent...
One of the things I love most about Bailgate is our wonderful collection of independent shops. Every one has its own personality and together they make Bailgate such a special place to mooch.
Book lovers should pop into Lindum Books, while fashion fans will enjoy browsing Lottie’s Atik, (where I buy my favourite pink & red tops). Self offers timeless clothing and beautifully chosen accessories. If you're visiting Follie - my own little pink gift shop, you'll find jewellery, gifts, cards and plenty of pretty things to remind you of your visit to Lincoln.
Looking for accessories? Pretty Little is full of seasonal favourites, from summer hats to cosy winter gloves, scarves and socks, alongside fair trade clothing. The Fabric Quarter, a haven for anyone who loves sewing, Bo Peep Boutique is full of gorgeous children’s clothes and toys and both Object & Line and Oui Lincoln are well worth a browse.
history around every corner...
One of the things I love most about Lincoln is that history isn’t tucked away behind glass cabinets - it’s all around you. The magnificent Lincoln Cathedral dominates the skyline and is well worth stepping inside, even if it's just to admire its incredible architecture. If you’ve got a head for heights, the Roof Tours offer a completely different perspective and some unforgettable views across the city.
Across the cobbles of Castle Square is Lincoln Castle, home to one of only two surviving original of the Magna Carta, dating back to 1215! You can walk the medieval walls, explore the castle grounds or simply find a bench and soak up the atmosphere. Throughout the year, the castle also plays host to a fantastic programme of outdoor events.
If you continue up Bailgate, you’ll reach the impressive Newport Arch – one of the best-preserved Roman gateways in Britain. Remarkably, despite a couple of collisions, it's still in use today and a reminder that Lincoln’s story stretches back almost 2,000 years.
If you’d like to discover even more, pop into the Lincoln Visitor Information Centre, on the corner of Bailgate and Castle Square, where you’ll find plenty of inspiration, maps and local knowledge. And if you're staying for a couple of days I'd highly recommend the Lincoln Free Walking Tour. They’re a brilliant way to uncover the stories hidden behind the streets and buildings you might otherwise simply walk past.
time for a treat...
After climbing Steep Hill and exploring Lincoln’s historic streets, you’ve definitely earned a treat!
If ice cream is calling your name, make a beeline for Ice Dreaming. Their delicious locally made ice cream is the perfect excuse to slow down for a few minutes, especially on a sunny day.
For something savoury, head to Redhill Farm Shop. Famous for supplying pork pies to Lord's Cricket Ground, their incredible Lincolnshire sausage rolls are reason enough to visit, alongside a tempting selection of locally produced food and tasty treats. It’s almost impossible to leave empty-handed!
If you’re in the mood for a proper afternoon tea, Bells Tea Shop on Steep Hill is the place for you. Whether you choose one of their generous ice creams, a traditional afternoon tea or even full English breakfast, it’s the perfect place to relax and soak up the atmosphere.
And then there’s Curtis’s… a real Lincolnshire institution. As well as the Lincolnshire sausages and Chine sold in their butchers section, over at the bakery counter, their mince pies, which they sell all year round, are legendary; Cherry bakewell slices are thick, moist & utterly mouthwatering and their flapjacks are for when you're being 'healthy'. I'm not allowed to try their flaky, warm cheese straws though, because I'll probably become hooked on them!
lunch, dinner & drinks...
By now you’ve probably worked up quite an appetite, and thankfully Lincoln has plenty of fantastic places to eat, drink & unwind.
For everything from a morning coffee to a leisurely lunch, evening meal or one of the best cocktails around, The White Hart Hotel is always a great choice. My particular order is a Hugo Spritz accompanied by a rather indulgent fish finger sandwich.
If you’re after a traditional pub, The Duke William is a favourite for its quality 'pub' food menu, while The Lion & Snake boasts one of the best beer gardens in Lincoln, with a roadside seat of the race, beautiful cathedral views & plenty of early evening sunshine! Their Rosé is rather good too!
One of my favourite hidden gems is Cafe St Pauls. Tucked away just off Bailgate, it’s brilliant for breakfast, lunch, dinner, coffee or a glass of wine. The food is always delicious, the staff are wonderfully welcoming, and once you’ve found it, you’ll want to go back.
If you’re craving a curry, Castle View Indian Cuisine is, in my opinion, the best Indian restaurant in Lincoln. And next door, The Victoria has another lovely pub garden with a great atmosphere.
No guide to Lincoln would be complete without mentioning Stokes. Whether you’re stopping for one of their world-renowned in-house roasted coffees, lunch or simply enjoying a drink in their peaceful outdoor seating area, it’s another Lincoln institution that’s well worth a visit.
And if you fancy sharing a few dishes with friends, Ole Ole Tapas Bar & Restaurant brings a little taste of Spain to Bailgate with delicious tapas and a wonderfully relaxed atmosphere. For a quieter end to the day, the wine bar at Charlotte House Hotel is another lovely spot to sit back and raise a glass to a day well spent.
don't rush home...
One of the best things about Lincoln is that you don’t have to rush from one attraction to the next. Some of my favourite moments happen when I simply wander, discovering quiet corners that many visitors walk straight past.
Take a few minutes to explore Dean’s Green, where you can sit beneath the magnificent Cathedral and enjoy one of the most peaceful spots in the city.
If you're looking for something a little more tucked away, beautiful Dawber Garden, located at The Lawns, is another lovely place to pause and take in the surroundings.
St Paul in The Bail, is a great place to sit for a quick coffee and if you do wander further up Bailgate, next to the Methodist Church, beside Newport Arch, there’s a tiny hidden garden that many people pass without ever noticing - its peacefulness is part of its charm.
Sometimes the best memories of Lincoln aren’t made by ticking attractions off a list. They’re made by slowing down, looking up and simply enjoying everything this beautiful city has to offer.
Whether you're visiting for the Lloyds Tour of Britain, making a weekend of it, or simply discovering Lincoln for the first time, I hope that this little guide has inspired you to stay a little longer and explore a bit further.
I've had my little pink shop, Follie, on Bailgate for over 20 years and one of my favourite things is seeing visitors fall in love with this beautiful city. From independent shops and incredible history to wonderful food, hidden gardens and breathtaking views, there's always something new to discover.
The Lloyds Tour of Britain might be the reason you're coming to Lincoln, but I hope Lincoln is the reason you'll want to come back.
Still planning your visit?
Here are some useful links to help you plan your trip:
Lloyds Tour of Britain - race route, timings and spectator attractions
Visit Lincoln - attractions, accommodation & events
Lincoln Cathedral - opening times & roof tours
Lincoln Castle - tickets, castle walls, Magna Carta
Lincoln Free Walking Tour - tour guides, times and meeting points
