Interesting Facts

The Brayford Pool in Lincoln brought settlers to the region during the Iron Age in the first century B.C., and also gave the city its name. Lincoln is taken from the Celtic word Llyn, which translates as "lake" or "pool."
Lincoln has been an important port city for centuries even though it is 40 miles from the sea. It is a rare inland port, with water passing from the Brayford Pool to the Foss Dyke, into the River Trent and then on to the sea. This system allowed the city to become a major center of communication and trade during the 18th and 19th centuries.
Lincoln holds on to many of its unique traditions. For example, the Right Worshipful Mayor of Lincoln is still a local ward councilor, chosen by seniority. The chosen person goes through a ceremony during which he or she is "married" to the city. The Mayoral duties have changed over the years, but the ceremonial tradition continues.
The Lincoln Cathedral, the third-largest in England, is known around the world for its fantastic hilltop location and its magnificent limestone architecture. Visible for miles around thanks to its hilltop perch and its vast size, the cathedral's three dramatic towers are floodlit at night, making this a spectacular sight at any hour.
Visitors to Lincoln must steel themselves for the arduous but rewarding walk up the aptly named Steep Hill. This pedestrian-friendly cobblestone street connects the two main sections of the city – Lower Lincoln, the more commercial area, and Upper Lincoln, with its residential areas and historic sights. Stop for an ice cream cone on the way up!
Only four copies of the original Magna Carta, the foundation of democratic government, are in existence today. One of them resides inside medieval Lincoln Castle. The original document, complete with King John's seal, is dated 1215.
The Lawn, formerly a hospital for the mentally ill, is now Lincoln's newest visitor attraction. Here you'll find a tropical greenhouse, a pub, an elegant restaurant, plenty of shopping venues, and wide-open spaces ideal for picnics. Concerts and events are often held at The Lawn in the summer.
High Bridge, in the heart of downtown Lincoln, is a Norman vaulted bridge spanning the River Witham, topped by half-timber buildings dating back to the 16th century. Occupying the building is longstanding Stokes of Lincoln, a popular coffee shop and eatery that makes this the oldest bridge still supporting an operating business. Enjoy excellent views while you sip your morning coffee or high tea.
The Stonebow, built in the 16th century, was once the main gateway to the Roman City. Lindum, as it was then known beginning in 47 A.D., was one of Roman Britain's four capitals. The Stonebow now houses the City Council Chambers, the mayor's office, and the Civic Insignia granted by Richard II in 1387.
When visiting the Lincoln Cathedral, the area's top attraction, don't forget to look for the famed Lincoln Imp. The small face is sculpted into a wall of the church and, as the legend goes, two imps once visited the cathedral and tried to talk to angels carved into the ceiling. One was turned to stone, but the other got away. They say the wind still haunts the place, waiting for him to return. As this myth grew in popularity, the Imp became the city's emblem.