Car Hire Lincoln - Mini guide to Lincoln

Lincoln is one of England's most beautiful historic cathedral cities with a rich and diverse history that can be explored by following the Lincoln Heritage Trail.

Lincoln Castle up on a hill is the birthplace of the city. Visit the Castle's prison chapel with its unique coffin-like pews, tour towers and dungeons, and walk the walls for great views across the city. The Majestic Lincoln Cathedral with its stained glass windows, marble columns and vaulted roof is an awe-inspiring sight. The Bishops Old Palace stands in the shadow of the Cathedral.

Passing through Stonebow (the southern gateway to the medieval city) you reach High Bridge - a vaulted Norman stone bridge - the oldest bridge in England still bearing buildings. The former Roman harbour, Brayford Pool, is home to many colourful narrow boats and pleasure craft as well as the city's new University. Other attractions include the Usher Gallery and the Museum of Lincolnshire Life.

Lincoln's Leisure Centres, parks and sports clubs cater for most sports and interests. Up the hill round the Cathedral and Bailgate you'll find specialist shops, trendy boutiques, and souvenir gifts. In downhill Lincoln is the pedestrianised High Street with major department stores and daily indoor and outdoor markets. The Theatre Royal offers live stage acts, touring theatre, and pre-West End productions. The city has an Odeon multi screen cinema and the local music and arts scene has blossomed since the arrival of the new University.

There is angling on the local rivers and lakes, and many walks and cycling routes in the surrounding countryside. Lincoln's cruise trips and traditional rowing boats also operate at Brayford Pool. Lincolnshire also has some of the best beaches in the country – Mablethorpe Beach has a large stretch of fine, mostly tide-washed golden sand with a concrete promenade and theatre. Sutton on Sea has many facilities including windsurfing, surfing, canoeing, sailing and jet skiing.

Lincoln has its own municipal airport, but most international flights arrive at East Midlands Airport. Trains leave every hour to London Kings Cross Station (duration 2 hours). Most trains go via Peterborough or Newark North Gate Stations.

The major suburbs in Lincoln are: Bracebridge, North Kesteven and West Lindsey.