Draper Cottage · Lincoln Guide
Discover Lincoln
From Draper Cottage
A complete guide to exploring one of England’s most extraordinary historic city — 30 minutes from your cottage door.
Visit Lincoln from Draper Cottage, you find yourself in the heart of one of England’s most captivating cities — where Roman walls meet Gothic spires, medieval streets wind downhill past independent boutiques, and nearly 2,000 years of history wait around every corner.
Your Base
Draper Cottage
A 19th-Century Retreat in the Bailgate
Draper Cottage is a beautifully restored 19th-century self-catering cottage tucked in the historic Horncastle. Tastefully decorated, superbly well-equipped, and designed with couples in mind, it is the perfect home-from-home for a short break or extended city escape.
What makes this location truly special is the sheer convenience. Only 25 minutes drive to Lincoln. Lincoln Castle, the winding cobbles make it a perfect visit.
Walking Distances from the main shopping
Everything that makes Lincoln great. No car needed for the highlights.
Attractions
Must-See Sights in Lincoln
Lincoln punches well above its weight for a city of its size. Within 25 minutes of Draper Cottage you’ll find world-class medieval architecture, Roman relics, and one of the most important documents in human history.
One of the greatest medieval buildings in the world, Lincoln Cathedral is breathtaking in scale and beauty. Built between 1072 and 1311 under Norman and Gothic craftsmen, it dominated the skyline of medieval England — and still does today.
Built by William the Conqueror in 1068 — just two years after the Battle of Hastings — Lincoln Castle has stood at the heart of the city for nearly a thousand years. Following a major refurbishment, it is now one of England’s finest castle experiences.
The neighbourhood surrounding Draper Cottage is itself a living museum. The Bailgate area sits within the boundary of Lindum Colonia — the Roman walled city — and layers of history are visible at every turn.
Lincoln’s flagship museum tells the story of Lincolnshire from the Stone Age to the modern day. The building itself is an award-winning contemporary structure housing an impressive collection of archaeology and fine art.
At the foot of the city, Brayford Pool is the oldest recorded inland marina in Britain — a tranquil stretch of water that has been at the centre of Lincoln’s trade and life since Roman times. Today it is home to a lively waterfront with restaurants, bars, and scenic walks.
A beautifully maintained Victorian park designed by Edward Milner (a protégé of Joseph Paxton), the Arboretum offers a peaceful escape from the city bustle. Mature trees, ornamental ponds, and winding paths make it a lovely place for a gentle stroll.
Lincoln’s Famous Street
Steep Hill
Steep Hill is exactly what it sounds like — and entirely worth every step. Running from the Cathedral quarter down to Lincoln’s lower city, it was voted Britain’s Greatest Street in 2012 by the Royal Institute of British Architects, and it is easy to see why.
The cobbled street is lined with an eclectic, characterful mix of independent shops: antiquarian bookshops, artisan chocolatiers, gift shops, jewellers, art galleries, tea rooms, and restaurants — many housed in buildings that have stood for centuries.
Halfway down, the Jews’ House — a Norman-era stone dwelling dating to the 12th century and thought to be one of the oldest domestic buildings in England — still stands proudly. Today it operates as a fine dining restaurant, making it one of the most historically atmospheric places to eat in the country.
At the top of the hill you’ll find the Bail (Bailgate area), and at the bottom the city centre and the route towards Brayford Pool. Walking down is a pleasure; walking back up is a workout — but the views over the rooftops reward every pause.
💡 Tip: Take the hill slowly on the way down — linger in the doorways, browse the windows, and stop for coffee or cake at one of the independent tea rooms. Save the climb back up for early evening when the light on the Cathedral is extraordinary.
When to Visit
Lincoln Through the Seasons
Lincoln offers something exceptional at every time of year — from blossoming spring walks to the magical glow of the Christmas Market.
Spring
- Mild weather ideal for walking the castle walls
- Arboretum in full blossom
- Quieter crowds before summer peak
- Cathedral gardens at their most colourful
- Easter events and markets in the city centre
Summer
- Long evenings perfect for Brayford dining
- Open-air events at The Lawn and city parks
- Roof tours of the Cathedral at their best
- Canal boat trips from Brayford Pool
- Day trips to the Wolds at their greenest
Autumn
- Arboretum ablaze with autumn colour
- Crisp air for countryside walks in the Wolds
- Lincoln’s food and drink scene in full swing
- Fewer tourists; a more local feel to the city
- Great season for cosy pub evenings
Winter
- Lincoln Christmas Market — one of the UK’s largest (early December)
- Cathedral lit up at night: utterly magical
- Hundreds of craft, food, and drink stalls
- Mulled wine and festive atmosphere throughout Bailgate
- Book Draper Cottage early — Christmas Market sells out fast
Further Afield
Day Trips from Draper Cottage
Lincolnshire and its neighbours are packed with hidden gems. These destinations make for brilliant day excursions when you want to venture beyond the Cottage.
The Lincolnshire Wolds
Designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the Wolds are a rolling landscape of chalk hills, deep valleys, and unspoilt villages — some of the most scenic walking and cycling country in the East Midlands. Alfred Lord Tennyson was born in the Wolds village of Somersby, and the landscape shaped much of his poetry. Follow the Viking Way or the Wolds Way for remarkable views.
Louth
A handsome market town at the heart of the Wolds, Louth is worth a visit in its own right. Its centrepiece is St James’ Church, which has the tallest spire of any medieval parish church in England — a staggering 295 feet. The town also has a thriving independent shopping scene, a traditional market, and excellent cafés.
Stamford
Often called England’s finest stone town, Stamford is a beautifully preserved Georgian market town just south of Lincolnshire. Its honey-coloured limestone buildings, independent shops, and riverside setting are irresistible. You may recognise it as a filming location for the BBC’s beloved adaptation of Pride and Prejudice.
Burghley House
One of the greatest Elizabethan country houses in England, Burghley sits just outside Stamford in grounds designed by Capability Brown. Built between 1555 and 1587, it houses a world-class collection of art and decorative objects, and hosts the renowned Burghley Horse Trials each September. A full day could easily be spent here.
Lincolnshire Aviation Heritage Centre
Based at the former RAF East Kirkby, this remarkable museum is a must for anyone interested in aviation or WWII history. The centrepiece is Just Jane, a preserved Avro Lancaster bomber that offers taxi rides along the airfield. The site also features extensive displays of aircraft, memorabilia, and personal stories from the aircrews who served there.
Eat & Drink
Food & Drink in Lincoln
Lincoln’s food scene ranges from cosy independent tea rooms to waterfront dining and historic restaurant settings. There is something for every mood, all within easy reach of the cottage.
Independent Cafés & Tea Rooms
Steep Hill and the Bailgate are dotted with charming independent cafés — perfect for a mid-morning coffee and a slice of cake. Many occupy buildings of great age and character, adding atmosphere to every cup. Look out for traditional English cream teas and local homemade bakes.
Fine Dining at the Jews’ House
One of England’s most historic buildings is also one of Lincoln’s finest restaurants. The Jews’ House Restaurant on Steep Hill, occupying a 12th-century Norman house, offers an intimate fine dining experience with a menu focused on seasonal, locally sourced ingredients. Book well in advance.
Traditional Pubs
Lincoln has a rich pub culture with several historic inns dating back centuries. The upper city around the Cathedral and Bailgate has a cluster of traditional pubs — perfect for an evening pint after a day’s exploring. Look for real ales from local Lincolnshire breweries.
Brayford Waterfront Dining
The Brayford Pool waterfront is home to a collection of restaurants and bars with outdoor terrace seating overlooking the water. Ideal for a relaxed lunch or a long summer evening dinner — the views back up to the Cathedral floodlit at dusk are spectacular.
Lincoln’s Markets
Lincoln has a long market tradition. The City Market runs regularly in the city centre, offering fresh produce, street food, and local specialities. Keep an eye out for seasonal markets throughout the year, and of course the legendary Christmas Market in early December.
International & Contemporary
Beyond its traditional offerings, Lincoln has a growing contemporary dining scene with cuisines from around the world. The city centre and Brayford area offer Italian, Indian, Thai, and modern British options — ensuring variety for longer stays.
Before You Go
Practical Visitor Tips
Make the most of your time in Lincoln with these handy notes from people who know the city well.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
Lincoln’s historic upper city is hilly and cobbled. Comfortable walking shoes are essential — heels and Steep Hill are a challenging combination.
Book the Christmas Market Early
Lincoln’s Christmas Market (held in early December) is one of the UK’s largest. Accommodation in the Bailgate sells out many months in advance — don’t leave it late.
Allow a Full Day at the Cathedral & Castle
Both attractions are rich with history and detail. Combine them with a guided tour to get the most from your visit — you’ll easily fill a whole morning and afternoon.
Explore on Foot
The most rewarding way to discover Lincoln is on foot. From Draper Cottage, the key sights are all walkable, and the city rewards those who wander without a fixed agenda.
Morning Light on the Cathedral
The Cathedral faces east and catches beautiful morning light. An early stroll around the Cathedral Green before the crowds arrive is one of Lincoln’s great pleasures.
Car Not Required (But Useful for Day Trips)
You won’t need a car to enjoy the city itself — everything is walkable from the cottage. However, a car opens up wonderful day trip options across Lincolnshire.
Look Up — and Look Down
Lincoln’s architectural detail is everywhere: in carved medieval doorways, Roman column bases set into the pavement, and Gothic tracery high above. Take your time.
Shop Independent on Steep Hill
Steep Hill’s independent shops are part of what makes Lincoln special. Support them over the chain stores on the High Street — you’ll find far more interesting things to take home.
Evening Views Are Unmissable
As the sun sets, the Cathedral is illuminated and glows golden over the Bailgate rooftops. Take a short evening stroll — it’s one of the most atmospheric sights in England.