Nestled in the heart of England's East Midlands, Lincolnshire is indeed a contrast of vivid landscapes, boasting of its rich historical heritage and a promising modern lifestyle.

In our area guide, we explore the county's hidden gems, from its expansive countryside views and golden-coast beaches to the bustling city lives of Lincoln and Boston. We delve into practicalities of living in Lincolnshire, discussing property markets, transportation, education, and much more.

History of Lincolnshire

Tracing back to the Roman times, the city of Lincoln, along with Lincolnshire, became a major centre for trade and military affairs. The Norman era saw the construction of the immense Lincoln Castle and the breathtaking Lincoln Cathedral. The Agricultural Revolution was a prime epoch in the county's history as the landscape shifted from open-field farming to progressive agricultural practices, profoundly shaping the region's economy. Connected to the sea through its rivers and the likes of The Wash, smuggling was a ubiquitous activity in 18th century Lincolnshire. The county's vibrant history has greatly influenced its character and growth.

Landmarks

Three landmarks embody the spirit of Lincolnshire: Lincoln Cathedral, Lincoln Castle, and the Boston Stump. Lincoln Cathedral, one of Europe's finest Gothic buildings, was the tallest man-made structure in the world for centuries. Lincoln Castle, a Norman era historic fortress, houses a copy of the Magna Carta and offers an atmospheric experience of Lincoln's history. The Boston Stump, also known as St Botolph's Church, holds the title for the tallest parish church in England, offering awe-inspiring views.

Landmarks we love

• The Collection, Lincoln: An archaeology museum that exhibits over a million years of the county's history as well as an art gallery showcasing local and international artists.
• Natureland Seal Sanctuary, Skegness: A unique attraction where visitors can enjoy entertaining seal feedings and meet a variety of animals including penguins, meerkats, and tropical birds.
• Hubbard's Hills, Louth: An area of natural beauty offering a mix of woods, open grassland, and water, providing a great spot for walks and family picnics.
• Bateman's Brewery, Wainfleet: A traditional British brewery where one can tour and learn about brewing processes and sample a variety of ales.
• Stamford Town Centre: This quintessentially English town has a range of historic buildings and offers a great selection of shops, cafés, and boutiques.

Top 5 things to do in Lincolnshire

• Visit the Lincoln Cathedral: Experience the magnificent architecture and deep history that makes Lincoln Cathedral an iconic landmark.
• Explore the Lincoln Castle: Walk the castle's medieval wall for breath-taking views of Lincoln, and see the Magna Carta.
• Get outdoors at the Lincolnshire Wolds: This Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty offers picturesque landscapes perfect for walking, cycling and wildlife watching.
• Visit the market town of Louth: Known for its independent retailers, Louth offers a unique shopping experience, local produce markets and historical features.
• Discover the coast at Skegness: A traditional seaside town with sandy beaches, amusements, nature reserves and the Skegness Aquarium.

Our recommended areas to live in Lincolnshire

• Lincoln: The county's capital city is a blend of modern living with a rich historic ambiance. It’s the perfect choice for those looking for a lively city-centre lifestyle surrounded by history and culture.
• Stamford: Famous for its historic Georgian architecture and its charming evergreen landscapes, Stamford is considered one of the best places to live in the county, providing a tranquil and sophisticated living experience.
• Grantham: Known for its superb schools and its close proximity to the A1 and east coast rail link, Grantham offers excellent commuter connectivity, making it an ideal location for families and professionals.
• Horncastle: A picturesque market town known for its antique shops and close proximity to the Lincolnshire Wolds, Horncastle provides a quiet and relaxed lifestyle.
• Woodhall Spa: An inland resort famed for its Edwardian character and peaceful setting, Woodhall Spa offers a relaxed and upscale lifestyle surrounded by beautiful countryside.

Best schools in Lincolnshire

Lincolnshire is home to some of the best schools in the UK. The county boasts two top-selling points for families: the retention of the grammar school system and excellent independent schools. Lincolnshire's grammar schools such as Queen Elizabeth's Grammar School in Horncastle and King's Grammar School in Grantham consistently rank amongst the top state schools in the country. The Lincoln Minster School provides an all-through education from 3 years old to 18, while Stamford Endowed Schools provide a strong academic curriculum and a wide range of extracurricular activities in a boarding school setting. The wealth of high achieving schools makes Lincolnshire an ideal choice for families prioritising education.

Transport links in Lincolnshire

Lincolnshire enjoys excellent transport links that connect the county with the rest of the country. The A1 and M180 provide good road connectivity north-south and east-west. There are frequent direct trains to London's King's Cross from Lincoln, Grantham, Boston, and Skegness. East Midlands Airport is less than an hour's drive from Lincoln, offering flights to multiple European destinations. Furthermore, the county's extensive network of cycle paths and walking trails makes commuting green and enjoyable.

In conclusion, Lincolnshire is endowed with a unique blend of history, countryside charm and city living. Its rich heritage is reflected in its landmarks, traditions and lifestyle. The county provides a friendly neighbourhood atmosphere, reputable educational institutions, strong transport links, and an affordable property market. For people who appreciate the countryside life, whilst still within proximity to thriving markets and town centres, the county is an ideal choice for setting up home. Whether you’re a history lover, outdoor enthusiast or a committed urbanite, Lincolnshire makes for a delightful place to settle in the East Midlands.