A two-day city break in Lincoln

One of Lincoln’s most historic shopping streets is Steep Hill, a narrow, cobbled road that climbs up to the castle and cathedral and the epicentre of local independent shops. Browse specialist stores and boutiques selling books, vintage clothes, art, wine, fine teas and much more. Here you can take some photos of the wonky buildings and pretty side streets.

If you need a breather from the ascent, tuck into a stellar assortment of pies at Hobbson’s. Established in the late 1980s, this family-run establishment is one of the best restaurants in Lincoln and it is not your typical run-of-the-mill pie and mash shop. Its authentic shortcrust-pastry pot pies are famous for their imaginative range of fillings including chicken wellington.

Standing on the city’s hilltop for nearly a thousand years, Lincoln Cathedral was once known as the tallest building in the world – even taller than Egypt’s Pyramids. Inside, keep an eye out for fossils embedded in the Nave floor, and see if you can spot The Lincoln Imps (the city's answer to a gargoyle) hiding in the pillars – folk stories say that this naughty creature was captured by angels and turned into stone.

Built by William the Conqueror, Lincoln Castle is the only building in the city to rival Lincoln Cathedral – in looks and in history. Much of the building is in its original state, and you can delve into 1,000 years of history, drama and bloodshed as you explore its towers, dungeons and Victorian prison. If you only see one thing, though, make sure it’s Magna Carta – this historic document is one of only four copies left in the world.

Housed in a former 19th-century church, the Old Palace Lodge is one of the city’s most imaginative guest houses. It still features the church’s original beams, apex ceilings and ornate windows, and has 16 boutique rooms, all of which feature lots of reds, purples and golds as a nod to the building’s origins. Some rooms also have rolltop baths for that extra touch of luxury.

Fuel up for your day in historical surroundings at the Cornhill Exchange; think gabled ceilings, round brass chandeliers and a splash of 1920s elegance. At this bustling spot, you can chow down on cooked English breakfasts, American pancakes, sourdough mains and shakshuka (Middle Eastern eggs poached in tomato). If you’re feeling cheeky, try a breakfast mimosa or elderberry spritz.

Designed by Edward Milner, one of the most celebrated Victorian gardeners of his time, the Arboretum is a pristine 22-acre park and gardens that have been around for over 150 years. Wander the handful of colourful, cultivated gardens, or go on a long walk around the lake, keeping an eye out for the iconic bandstand that’s still used for events throughout the year.

International Bomber Command, made up of teams like aircrew, the Women’s Auxiliary Air Force and many others, suffered the highest losses of any unit during the Second World War. At this popular museum in Lincoln, you can explore the exhibitions and displays, which delve into themes of recognition, remembrance and reconciliation, before taking a wander through the two peace gardens, paying homage to the 62 nations who served or supported the Command.

For food served with a side of history, splash out on dinner at The Jews House, one of the best restaurants in Lincoln. Set inside one of the oldest stone houses in Britain dating to the 12th century, you can choose one of their tasting menus that feature delicacies such as Orkney scallops and locally sourced chicken and venison.

A legend amongst locals, Strait and Narrow is a hip bar that’s not only famous for mixing up a mean Negroni but also its 120+ types of bottled beers and at least 15 beers on tap at any time. Look out for its internal telephone network that allows you to talk to other patrons without leaving your table (handy if you want to ask what cocktails they’re drinking!).