Underrated UK city that’s home to one of Britain’s prettiest streets

A tiny UK city that’s home to one of the country’s prettiest streets makes the perfect weekend getaway. With the summer over there will be thousands of Brits now turning their attention to quick and cosy staycations to make winter that bit more bearable.

One little city that has an army of fans is the historic city of Lincoln, Lincolnshire, in the East Midlands.

It is absolutely brimming with history and heritage – with a stunning cathedral and Roman waterways – but still remains a compact city that you can explore on foot.

Visit Lincoln explained more about the location, with the fastest train taking under two hours to get there from London.

It said: “Packed with things to see and do, Lincoln is a destination that everyone can enjoy. With award-winning attractions, great shopping and a wealth of places to eat and drink, this beautiful city makes for the perfect weekend break.”

After hitting the shops on the High Street you can switch modes to enjoy a relaxing stroll along the Brayford Waterfront which is also home to the award-winning University of Lincoln.

It went on: “Tackle the famous Steep Hill and you will discover an array of independent shops, eye-catching buildings and photo-worthy moments.”

Steep Hill is a steep, cobbled street which is jam packed with tempting retailers and leads up to Lincoln Cathedral, Lincoln Castle and the Cathedral Quarter.

It first became used by the residents of Lincoln when the city was called Lindum Colonia and the Roman inhabitants decided to expand the settlement down the hill. 

The street has a 16.12º gradient and was voted Britain’s Great Street in 2012 by the Academy of Urbanism and named the fourth steepest street in England by the Ordnance Survey.

Halfway up the street is Norman House, a picturesque building dating back to around 1170, which is one of the oldest surviving, domestic buildings in the UK.

If you love a museum then Lincoln Museum and the Museum of Lincolnshire Life are well worth a visit. And after a day exploring the city there are plenty of restaurants and bars to choose from too.

But what has to be the city’s centrepiece is the iconic Lincoln Cathedral which was the world’s tallest building for more than two centuries.

It held onto this record until 1549 when the spire collapsed. Had it remained standing, the 160-metre-tall building would have remained the world’s tallest building for almost six centuries. 

Many of those who have visited have taken to travel review site Tripadvisor to talk about their experiences at the cathedral.

One said: “Amazing cathedral – well worth a visit. Beautiful both inside and out – and so much history.” 

They added: “The surroundings are as lovely as the cathedral itself and a wander down Steep Hill is definitely worth doing if you have the time.”

Another added: “This cathedral is completely amazing. History in every corner and the workmanship is fascinating.”