Lingering awhile in Lincoln

We've reached Lincoln and this post is written by one of our members, Stephanie Mitchell, who hails from the area.

I grew up 20 miles from Lincoln. The position of the cathedral prominently atop the only hill for miles around, meant that it could be seen from a distance whichever way you approached the city. Magnificent!

Apart from the beauty of its interior there is such a sense of peace and awe in the Cathedral's atmosphere. Leaving the cathedral, you are surrounded by history; the castle nearby, the Steep Hill with its cobbled streets, second hand book and antique shops, leading down to the centre of Lincoln.

The cathedral was built on the site of an old church near Lincoln Castle and consecrated in 1092. Its construction was instigated by William the Conqueror, who acknowledged the loyalty of a Benedictine monk, Regiemus, by making him the Bishop of Dorchester. It was decided to transfer ecclesiastical power from Dorchester to Lincoln and build a cathedral. Over the next 100 years the cathedral suffered severe damage from fire and later, in 1185, an earthquake damaged all but the west front and twin towers. In 1186 the then new bishop, Hugh of Avalon, embarked on rebuilding the cathedral as it is today. It was completed in 1200. In the 14th century, the towers were raised and wooden spires were added, making it the tallest building in England for over 200 years.

If you visit Lincoln Cathedral, the 'must-sees' are:

The Angel Choir and St Hugh's Choir adjacent to it and described as "a church within a church".

The Lincoln Imp - legend has it that the imp was a little devil who caused damage to the building and distress to the clergy. An angel turned him into stone, and he can be found somewhere in the Angel Choir area of the cathedral.

The two magnificent libraries - the 15th century Medieval Library and the 17th century Wren Library; the books in them maintained by volunteers.

Admire the two Rose windows - the two circular rose stained glass windows have been fully restored. The Dean's Eye to the left, guards against the powers of evil, and the Bishop's Eye to the right welcomes the light of salvation. They are seen at The Crossing in front of St Hugh's Choir.

Enjoy the gardens. More recently, in 2020, the Dean's Green re-opened up to the public after 40 years and features landscaped lawns, flower beds, a water fountain and seating.

There is also an excellent Visitor Centre.

Make sure you go to Lincoln Castle to see one of the four original copies of The Magna Carta (1215), and the smaller Charter of the Forest, both owned by Lincoln Cathedral.

Make the climax of your visit attending Evensong, when the choir in its beautiful setting will add to the awe and wonder of this magnificent cathedral.

The cathedral buildings have opened up for more secular activities recently: 'The Da Vinci Code' and 'The Young Victoria' having been filmed inside the cathedral.

We can't linger much longer in Lincoln as York and its Minster await us but for more detailed information go to Lincolnshire.org and to June Russells' 'Top 10 Things to do in Lincoln Cathedral'

YouTube also holds a variety of recordings of the choir - one of which is provided below for you to enjoy as they sing a favourite anthem we also like to share at Helensburgh Parish Church, written by Herbert Howells, 'My eyes for beauty pine'.

Video Credit: You Tube, Lincoln Cathedral Choir Topic - My eyes for beauty pine (provided to YouTube by NAXOS of America)