Weekend in Lincoln

A steep cobbled street linking the cathedral quarter to the city centre, lined with independent shops, antique dealers and a few old pubs. The gradient is brutal but the views are

Tip: Take the 'Lincoln Lift' from the bottom of the hill (50p fare) if legs are tired. The top has a bench with a cracking view over the city — best at sunset.

A modern museum housing archaeology and art from Lincolnshire, from prehistoric flints to Roman tiles and medieval pottery. The gallery has a rotation of contemporary exhibitions t

Tip: The museum's cafe does a good budget lunch — the soup and bread is under a fiver. Check the website for free family workshops on weekends.

A flat walk around the inland lake formed by the River Witham, with views of the cathedral and the university's modern buildings. Many swans and ducks, plus a few canal barges.

Tip: Start at the 'Tower Hotel' end and walk south along the water — you'll see the old warehouses converted into bars. Best on a clear weekday evening when it's quiet.

A 900-year-old castle with intact walls and a copy of Magna Carta in the vaults. The wall walk costs, but you can walk the grounds and the Victorian prison courtyard for free.

Tip: The free audio guide in the prison is worth it — you hear actual prisoner accounts. Arrive after 3pm for cheaper entry if you want the walls.

One of England's finest Gothic cathedrals, towering over the city. The guided roof tours and the Treasury are paid, but general admission is free. The 'Lincoln Imp' carving is a must-see.

Tip: Visit during a weekday morning for quieter moments. The cafe in the cloisters is decent but pricey; skip it and head to the nearby 'Bailgate Deli' for a cheap flat white.