One of the most picturesque areas in Lincoln, Bailgate sits at the heart of the Cathedral Quarter.
Situated just off Castle Square, the Bailgate area consists of a series of narrow streets, connecting the medieval Cathedral to the Roman-built Newport Arch. Just a stone’s throw away from the city’s most famous attractions, this colourful region is well worth exploring.
Loved by both residents and tourists, Bailgate is home to some fantastic independent shops, as well as a great selection of cafes, bars and restaurants. As there are so many local businesses here, the area has a real community spirit. Visitors from across the globe are welcomed with open arms, and the shop owners here are always up for a chat.
The Castle and Cathedral host events all year round, so there is always something to see and do close by. Visit during the spring or summer months and you’ll feel an excited buzz in the air. During Autumn and Winter, Bailgate sits at the heart of the seasonal celebrations, with everything from pumpkin trails to carol singing taking place here.
A brief history of Lincoln Bailgate
Bailgate is one of the oldest parts of Lincoln. The street is thought to roughly follow the original Roman Road that ran through the area. At one end, you will find Lincoln’s Cathedral and Castle, whilst at the other stands Newport Arch, which was once the North gateway into the original Roman settlement.
The Romans first arrived here in around 50AD, building a fortress on the hill. The forum of the Colonia would have been around the junction of Bailgate and Westgate. Now an area to sit and relax in the sunshine, this large space would have once been used for important religious, political and social activities.
Today, the front of the Roman forum is marked out along Bailgate by setts in the road and on the path. The entrance to Westgate is in the same place as where one of the entrances to the forum would have been. You can still see part of the forum’s wall, along with a well and the markings of an old church site here.
Fast forward to the Medieval era and Lincoln’s economy was booming – something which had an impact on the architecture in the Bailgate. The medieval buildings that are still standing today suggest there was plenty of wealth in the area at this time, shaping Bailgate’s future forever.
Following the Norman Conquest in 1066, William the Conqueror arrived in the city and ordered the building of Lincoln Castle. The castle had its own boundaries, but as the Roman defensive walls still surrounded the uphill region, the area around the castle became known as the outer bail. This eventually then evolved into the name ‘Bailgate’ .
Even when Lincoln’s economy went through periods of decline, the Bailgate area has always managed to thrive. As there were a lot of wealthy residents here, the district became quite commercial. There was a busy market in Castle Square, and public houses like the Lion and Snake and the Duke William were popular with visiting traders.
During the Victorian and Edwardian eras, Lincoln’s population rapidly grew. More shops and businesses moved into Bailgate, along with pubs like the Magna Carta and the Prince of Wales. Most of these commercial buildings still exist today, although the businesses may have changed slightly!
With so much history to discover in this area alone, it is well worth exploring further. If you’re keen to find out more, we highly recommend going on the Roman Walking Tour. Painting a picture of life in Lincoln 1800 years ago, this free tour traces the route of the old city walls and gates, as well as key locations within the city, including the forum. Alternatively, there is also a self-guided digital trail that you can download and follow at your own pace.
Bailgate Shopping
One of England’s most independent shopping districts, you will find a fantastic variety of retailers along Bailgate. Run by locals and loved by locals, the shops here are small, quirky and colourful. Whether you’re looking for award-winning meat, or a one-off antique, you are sure to find something you like.
Independent clothing shops are in abundance here - for fashion worth investing in, try Self, Oui and Oska. It’s also almost impossible to walk past the colourful windows at Pretty Little Clothing without popping in. This sustainable clothing shop only stock ethical and eco-friendly brands, so you can shop guilt free. Alternatively, if you’re up for making your own clothes, the Fabric Quarter is a must visit. Here, you’ll find rolls upon rolls of beautiful fabric, suitable for both dressmaking and interiors. If you aren’t feeling inspired when you go in, you soon will be!
Venture down the side streets, and you’ll find even more boutiques to explore. Children will love Object and Line, which is full of beautifully nostalgic toys – and some cool bits for parents to enjoy too. For children’s clothing, simply pop over the road to the Bo Peep Boutique, who also stock a fantastic range of Jellycat cuddlys too.
Independent retailers Follie and The Artisan Maker are always on hand for beautiful homeware, whilst The Little Red Gallery and Lindum Books will satisfy your art and culture needs. If you’re after something completely unique, stop off at Mansion Antiques or The Shambles – both absolute treasure troves of antique homeware, clothing and jewellery.
Food & Drink in Bailgate
It’s safe to say you won’t go hungry around these parts. Whether you want a quick brunch or a relaxed evening meal, Bailgate has a great variety of places to eat and drink.
For coffee and cake, try Grayz Tea Room, Coffee Culture or Bailgate Deli - all of which also offer great lunchtime menus. Gino’s Italian and Thailand No.1 are good for international options, whilst you can get a brilliantly British fish and chips at Elite.
Just fancy a cold beer and some tasty pub grub? The Prince of Wales has got you covered. For something a little more special, try the Duke William by Newport Arch - their Sunday roast is one of the best in the city.
Although Bailgate is popular with visitors, its also a one-stop shop for residents, who can easily do a quick grocery run here. If you’re keen to sample some of the local produce, you can pick up award winning meat from Redhill Farm Shop, locally grown veg from Fresh from the Fields and bread from Curtis Bakery (who also happen to do the most delicious cream cakes!)
