September 13, 2018 4.37 pm This story is over 66 months old

A new student’s guide to Lincoln

Top things to do in Lincoln as a new student
Photo: UoL

With the start of a new academic year almost upon us, many nervous students from across the UK will be moving to Lincoln to begin their university careers.

So to make moving a little easier, The Lincolnite has compiled this handy top ten guide of essential things to do in Lincoln.

Tackle Steep Hill

A hill that definitely lives up to its name, Steep Hill is an absolute must for all newcomers to Lincoln. It may be a gruelling climb but there are plenty of quaint stores and tea shops, like the famous Bunty’s Tea Room, to keep you going along the way.

Steep Hill in Lincoln

Visit the Cathedral and Lincoln Castle 

If you do happen to make it to the top of Steep Hill, you’ll be treated to a rather majestic view of Lincoln Cathedral. The 3rd largest in the UK, Lincoln Cathedral’s medieval architecture certainly offers some Instagram-worthy views.

Across the square, dotted with pubs and cafes, is Lincoln Castle. Whether you’re taking a walk around the castle grounds or a trip up onto the walls to admire the views, Lincoln Castle is an a must-see.

Lincoln Cathedral is free entry for students when you show your student card. Lincoln Castle is also free to visit on non-event days, but there are extra costs to take a wall tour or check out the Magna Carta vault and the Victorian prison.

Lincoln Cathedral as seen from Lincoln Castle

Experience Lincoln’s arts and culture

Lincoln is a fantastic place for arts and culture, you just need to know where to look. The Collection and Usher Gallery can be found on Danes Terrace and bring together an award-winning display of archaeological artefacts and fine and decorative arts.

For the budding artists out there, life-drawing classes are held every Wednesday at the Usher Gallery.

Also check out the Mansions of the Future project on St Mary’s Street (across the road from the train station) and the Museum of Lincolnshire Life uphill.

Usher Gallery

Visit the city’s parks

If city life gets a little too much, you can always take a walk around some of the area’s beautiful parks. The Arboretum is by far the most accessible, located just off Monks Road, a short walk away from the town centre. For those willing to trek a little further afield, Hartsholme Park is located just three miles west of the city centre and Whisby Nature Park is just off the A46.

Lake view of Hartsholme park in Lincoln. Photo: CoLC

Register at the health centre 

Possibly the most important ‘must-do’ on the list. Go and get registered at the University of Lincoln health centre. Located on campus next door to The Swan, you can register here for GP services. There is also a student wellbeing centre next door that offers mental health support and counselling.

The sexual health clinic is located at 134 Dixon Street.

The University health centre

Try a food challenge

Last month, The Lincolnite got to sample the toughest food challenges in the city. Check out our video below to see how we got on and give them a go yourself!

Buy your fresh fruit and veg from the market

Head down to the indoor Central Market on Sincil Street to support local, independent city traders. Here you can pick up good quality meat, fresh fruit and veg at prices that won’t break the bank when you’re on a tight student budget.

There are also regular farmers’ markets on Castle Hill.

The farmers’ market in Castle Square.

Hire a bike

Fancy taking a bike ride to explore the sites? Just hire a bike from one of several orange bike points dotted around the city. The nearest one to the uni is on the Brayford Waterfront just outside the Royal William pub or outside Sparkhouse (Enterprise Building) behind the uni library. The service is available 24/7 and you can find more information and also a price list from the website.

Hirebike on the Brayford Photo: Steve Smailes for The Lincolnite

Go to a Lincoln City football match

The legendary Lincoln City are such a part of the fabric of the town that many say you can only be a true Lincolnite once you’ve been to a Lincoln City match. The atmosphere is always great, the fans are passionate and you’ll get to experience what it’s like inside the Sincil Bank stadium.

Sincil Bank Photo: Lincoln City Football Club

Enjoy an ice-cream!

There are lots of places to find sweet treats in Lincoln. Perhaps the most unique spot is Daisy Made farm. All the ice cream is hand-made on the farm with milk from the dairy cows and they have a huge selection of flavours for you to choose. You can also enjoy a game of mini golf whilst you’re there. Located on the Lincoln Road in Skellingthorpe, just a short drive (or bike ride) out of the city.

Here are some other ideas.