Lincoln Cathedral is one of the most impressive buildings we’ve ever seen, so if Lincolnshire conjures up images of endless flat farmlands and boring countryside, I can tell you you’d be wrong. Our boat trips through this wonderful county have been some of the most enjoyable we’ve taken. But if you really need convincing, then a visit to Lincoln itself will dispel any prejudices.
Its mix of medieval and modern architecture, boutique and high street shops, abundance of cafes and restaurants, not to mention a focus on arts and culture, make this a stimulating and relaxed location to explore.
And slap bang in the centre of it all, the main focus of the city, is the magnificent and imposing cathedral.
I’m not going to give you a breakdown of its history as there are many sources out there. It’s been so well documented that my amateur take won’t benefit anyone. However, being a keen photographer, I figured I’d let my photos do the talking. I’ll sprinkle in a few facts along the way.
The first thing you should know is that both the cathedral and the castle are perched atop the only hill in the area, and its incline should not be underestimated.
The fact they’ve called the main street ‘Steep Hill’ should tell you all you need to know! Fortunately, there are plenty of interesting little shops along the way to give you an excuse to catch your breath. You’ll find decent coffee and tea shops, plus a pub or two.
When you’re close enough to the cathedral entrance that you have to crane your neck upwards to take in the west facade, consider how this must have looked to the god-fearing peasants who lived around the flatlands.
Construction of the cathedral started in the 11th century, and for a period of time it was considered the largest building in the world when, in the 14th century, they erected wooden spires.
Adorned with colourful banners and a choir belting out hymns from the balcony above the west gate, designed to act as an amplifier, it must have literally put the fear of god into the local people.
Much of the original building from the 11th century is still on display. However, the cathedral was added to over the following centuries, especially after the earthquake of 1185 severely damaged its structure.
The cathedral’s interior is distinctly Gothic, with beautiful stone carvings, vaulted ceilings and intricate stained glass. It is a testament to the architectural innovation of its time.
After spending an hour or so wandering the cathedral grounds with Mum and Dad, I decided to return for the Roof Tour.
I cannot recommend this enough, although you should book early and check availability. Ironically, our tour was led by Tian, who turned out to be a volunteer at Torksey Lock on the Fossdyke Navigation!
Tian brought this tour alive with his encyclopedic knowledge, not just of the cathedral but of Lincolnshire history in general. Moreover, the tour gives you access to parts of the cathedral on the upper levels, through the vaulted ceilings, tight stone staircases and eventually out onto the roof.
Needless to say, the views from up here on a clear day are stunning.
If there’s one thing you’ll learn about Lincoln after a visit, it is the city’s constitutional significance. Lincoln Castle houses one of only four surviving original copies of the 1215 Magna Carta, brought back from Runnymede by Hugh of Wells, the Bishop of Lincoln who was present at the signing.
The castle also holds the 1217 Charter of the Forest, making Lincoln the only place in the world to possess original copies of both historic documents. These texts and the city’s history, which include the decisive 1217 Battle of Lincoln, securing the reign of Henry III, place Lincoln at the very centre of the medieval shift toward democracy, the rule of law, and individual rights.
The Bishop Kaye Memorial lancet windows, located in the South Choir Aisle of Lincoln Cathedral
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