Seven things to do in Lincoln as a student

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.  

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 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. 

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.   

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.