Harley Young enjoys a stay fit for a king at the historic White Hart Hotel
The medieval city of Lincoln is a destination that’s sometimes overlooked by us folks who live in and around Manchester - what with neighbouring Chester right on our doorstep and historic York only slightly further afield.
But it shouldn’t be crossed off your citybreak list, because there’s more than enough to do in this charming city; from a wealth of jaw-dropping architecture and history to its quaint cobblestone streets that are abundant with cosy cafes, restaurants and small businesses to explore.
Last weekend, I was kindly invited for a stay at the White Hart Hotel - the only AA 4 Star Silver Award hotel in the whole of Lincolnshire - to explore what the dine-and-stay destination and, indeed, Lincoln has to offer its visitors.
Here’s what you can get up to during a short stay in this incredible medieval city.
Where to stay
White Hart Hotel
Situated at the heart of Lincoln’s Bailgate, the oldest part of the city, White Hart Hotel has stood proudly since the 14th Century where it began life as a royal lodging house for King Richard II. Later, in the 1700s, it became a coaching inn and, now, its Lincolnshire’s most elegant and exclusive venue boasting 51 luxurious ensuite bedrooms alongside a 16th century annex, Leigh Pemberton House, and two town houses.
A stone’s throw away from both Lincoln’s iconic Medieval cathedral and the city’s 900 year old Norman castle, this classy bolthole is perfectly located for exploring the wealth of attractions, small businesses and experiences all within a short walking distance from it.
Having been newly refurbished, the rooms at White Hart Hotel combine Georgian aesthetics and characteristics with contemporary boutique design, adding an air of traditional luxury whilst still providing all the modern amenities guests could need for a short stay. Some room modcons include large en-suite bathrooms with rainfall showers (some with free-standing baths), luxury bedding, a good-sized smart TV, WiFi access and retro-style DAB radio.
Some rooms even overlook the cathedral itself, providing breathtaking views to wake up to.
Downstairs, visitors can enjoy a tipple or soft drink in the hotel’s very own bars; the Gibson Club Bar providing a relaxed atmosphere and the Colonnade Cocktail Lounge, a cosy nook kitted out in aviation-inspired decor that’s ideal for those late evening nightcaps.
Antlers Restaurant
Those looking for an exceptional meal to make their visit one to remember can book a table at Antlers Restaurant; the White Hart’s very own high-end restaurant offering carefully curated a la carte menus and five-course tasting menus featuring the best local produce and flavours inspired by the region. Here, my fiancé and I enjoyed a fabulous three-course meal each - standout dishes being the breast of local wood pigeon and the slow-cooked blade of beef.
Aquitaine Spa
If you’re the sort of person who looks for a spot of R&R when taking a city break, White Hart Hotel’s Aquitaine Spa offers both staying guests and daytime visitors the opportunity to book revitalising spa treatments using TEMPLESPA products.
Planning permission has been granted for additional spa facilities which will soon be available to book, including an 11m indoor vitality pool, sauna and gym.
Things to do in Lincoln
History & Architecture
Two of Lincoln’s biggest, most impressive attractions are it's Medieval cathedral and its Norman castle; both of which are just a short stroll from each other, providing history buffs with a good few hours of moseying around and exploring.
Between the years 1311-1548, Lincoln Cathedral was the tallest building in the world - yes, even taller than the Great Pyramid of Giza - measuring 160 metres thanks to its central timber and lead spire which, sadly, collapsed following a severe storm.
Lincoln Castle, built almost 1000 years ago by William the Conqueror, has had plenty of dramatic and significant events of its own with plenty of royal visitors, battles and sieges, its very own dungeon-turned-prison, and even witch hangings. It also housed one of only four surviving original copies of the Magna Carta which has been placed in the cathedral treasury for safe-keeping.
Shopping
Tracing back to the Roman ages nearly 2000 years ago, Steep Hill is Lincoln’s most notable street, named after its dramatic incline of 14%.
Now, the cobblestone streets are littered with a plethora of independent shops and businesses, selling everything from handmade home accessories, boutique clothing and even one-of-a-kind mementos of your trip like your very own Imp from the Lincoln Imporium.
Food & Drink
As well as fantastic dining options at White Hart Hotel’s Antlers Restaurant, there’s no end of quaint cafes, tea rooms, eateries and on-the-go options to enjoy like Barney’s Pizza where you can grab pizza by the slice.
If you’re lucky enough to be visiting on a scorcher of a day, or just rewarding yourself for making it all the way back up Steep Hill, cool off with traditional ice cream at IceDreaming Ice Cream Parlour.
Activities
Whether you’re travelling solo, as a couple, or as part of a family, there’s plenty of activities to keep everyone entertained - young and old - from family-friendly virtual golf and arcades to Lincoln’s famous ghost tours. You can even scan a QR code back at Lincoln Imporium to go on a quest to find the mischievous missing Imps.
For more inspiration for your trip to Lincoln, watch the video below.
Fact file
- Harley drove directly to Lincoln from Manchester, which took 2 hours 15 minutes. Limited car parking is available at the hotel at £10 per night but must be pre-booked. If no spaces are available, there is nearby parking available at Westgate Car Park priced at £11 for 24 hours.
- Trains from Manchester Piccadilly to Lincoln Station take roughly 2 hours 40 minutes with one change at Sheffield Station.
- Overnight stays at the White Hart Hotel start from £129 per night on a bed and breakfast basis and can be booked here.
- Bookings for the Antlers Restaurant can be made here.
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