Seven things to do in Lincoln as a student

Lincoln, in the heart of Lincolnshire, is a city full of history and English charm. Featuring 16th Century and Georgian architecture, it’s full of attractive buildings. In fact, the city is centred around a cathedral and castle.  

As well as its quirky architecture, Lincoln is buzzing with things to do, from shopping and entertainment to quiet study spaces and beautiful old buildings, making it the ideal location for studying.  

Since starting my degree in computer science at the University of Lincoln, I’ve explored a lot. These are my ‘must see’ places in the city. 

Bailgate and Steep Hill

Once voted Britain’s best street, Step Hill is an Instagram dream! The picturesque, cobbled road is lined with quaint independent shops, cafés and restaurants. Halfway up Steep Hill is the famous wonky lamp, where you can catch your breath on the ‘Mayor’s Chair.’  

Just around the corner, you can find one of Lincoln’s most photographed spots – the crooked house on Michaelgate. The Lincoln Grand Prix cycling event passes through Michaelgate, making it an iconic location in the city.  

At the end of Steep Hill, you’ll find the beautiful Bailgate, home to Lincoln Cathedral and Lincoln Castle. Bailgate is the best place to shop as they often have special student discounts on everything from clothes to food items and stationery. It’s a short distance from the University of Lincoln, so I can go shopping in between classes.  

The Brayford Waterfront 

The Brayford Waterfront is another one of Lincoln’s most picturesque areas, offering an extensive range of restaurants, bars and entertainment. This is a great place to soak up the city’s vivid atmosphere. In the summer months, it’s really nice to eat outside as the restaurants put lots of tables out on the waterfront. In winter, I head back inside and warm up with some hearty meals. 

Brayford Waterfront is south of the University of Lincoln campus and is an easy walk from classes, so you can take a quick lunch break in a beautiful spot.  

Seven Districts Coffee House

While it can be tempting to grab a quick coffee from a popular brand, you can get a much higher quality brew in one of Lincoln’s independent cafés. Nestled in the Lincolnshire countryside, Seven Districts is a specialty coffee shop and roastery and it’s open seven days a week.  

From the University of Lincoln, it’s a 20-minute drive, but the coffee is worth the trip. It’s one of Lincoln’s most popular independent shops because they serve smooth and ethically sourced coffee that’s hand-roasted on site.  

You can also buy homemade cakes, paninis and pastries to go with your coffee. Seven Districts even caters for vegan and gluten-free diets, and you can bring your dog for a puppuccino. 

It’s one of my favourite spots because if you can’t decide which coffee to order, they give you a tasting tray with three glasses of coffee along with testing cards, so you can test every coffee available and pick your favourite.  

Back to Mono record shop

Situated in the heart of the city, Back to Mono is Lincoln’s only independent record shop, stocking an astounding collection of new and used vinyl, clothing, collectables and posters. As a music lover, I love heading to the record collection and browsing for a hidden gem in between classes. Plus, it’s only an eight-minute walk from campus.  

The owner, Jim, is very friendly and is always more than happy to share his music knowledge.  

The Engine Shed  

The biggest club room in Lincoln is housed in a former engine shed on the University of Lincoln campus. A popular night out for students, The Engine Shed hosts a regular programme of vibrant club nights including the Rock & Roll party propaganda and music from the likes of Zane Lowe, DJ Fresh and Craig Charles to name a few.  

The Engine Shed is one of my favourite places to enjoy as it hosts some of the biggest and best musicians in the UK and beyond. It’s the largest live music venue in Lincolnshire. The best time to visit with your mates is after 7pm when the music and nightlife start. 

The Arboretum  

For students who like to relax in nature, the Arboretum is the place to go on a warm and sunny day. Situated just off Monk's Road near the city centre, it’s one of the nicest and greenest parks in Lincoln and only a 10-minute walk from campus. If I have a day or an afternoon off, I like to go with my friends and listen to music, or even have a BBQ.  

In summer, the park is filled with students, and is a great place to explore the greenest views in Lincoln. There’s even a maze, a climbing wall and mini zoo.   

Lincoln central library  

Located in the city centre is Lincoln Central Library. The library hosts a wide range of free events like coffee mornings and IT classes. I often go to the library to take advantage of the free classes and to take pictures for Instagram as the building is beautiful.  

The building has a quiet study area which is free to use and there is an exhibition gallery that’s popular with local artists and photographers. The library has a wide range of books including bestselling and must-have books. It also offers course textbooks, so I can lend the materials I need in class rather than buying everything myself.  

I’ve loved studying in Lincoln. The old Victorian-style buildings and British charm, added with some of the greenest parks, cosiest study spaces and the best nightlife in the region, make it an ideal student destination.  

Studying at university can be one of the greatest experiences, so it’s important to enjoy every moment in the city you choose to call home.