Stretching from the unspoilt and rolling Wolds to the flat fens and out to a charming eastern coastline, the county of Lincolnshire is one that never ceases to surprise and inspire. One of England’s largest counties, it is steeped in history, rich in natural beauty and spoiled for choice when it comes to historic market towns, vivid centres, and tranquil rural retreats. Still within commutable distances of London – and major commercial centres in the Midlands and the North – if you’re looking for the perfect place to live, this often overlooked gem of a county could well be it.
Lincoln
The county city of Lincoln sits at the heart of Lincolnshire and one doesn’t need to be there long to appreciate the centuries of history that have shaped this beautiful city. At one time, it was second only to London in terms of commercial and political importance (Lincoln is still home to one of only four original copies of that cornerstone of democracy, the Magna Carta) and it effortlessly balances its historic grandeur with a welcome contemporary and bustling edge. Its crowning glory is without doubt the stunning Lincoln Cathedral, which dominates the skyline and is complemented by the medieval Lincoln Castle and cobbled streets of the Bailgate area.
Away from the walled medieval centre, the city’s modern side is just as impressive, with a growing foodie trend (Ole Ole and The Jews House are just two of the great dining spots), eclectic shopping offer, thriving waterside living and an enviably independent cultural scene that can rival many city centres (although few can match it aesthetically).
Depending on where you look in this compact city, the houses here are a mix of charming period homes (with some dating back several centuries) to contemporary new suburban homes or slick apartments fronting the waterside.
It is very hard not to fall for this city as a place to put down roots and with excellent schooling options in the shape of the independent Lincoln Minster School and state-run Westgate Academy or The Priory Academy, families are very well-served. Add a host of outdoor leisure options, stunning surrounding countryside and London, Birmingham and Leeds all well within a two-hour train journey, it feels Lincoln delivers on pretty much everything.
Stamford
A mainstay on the annual lists of the best places to live in the UK, Stamford is a picture-perfect market town in South Lincolnshire, known for its honey-coloured stone buildings, Georgian architecture, and upmarket feel. This beautiful town has more than 600 listed buildings and is surrounded by seemingly infinite countryside. Like its larger county neighbour Lincoln, it is overflowing with historical significance, sitting on the old Roman route between London and York. It is namechecked in the 1086 Domesday Book, hosted several parliaments in the Middle Ages and was England’s first conservation area in 1967.
The town’s charm and quality of life come at an understandable premium with property prices here among the highest in Lincolnshire. Excellent schools, a thriving independent retail scene, and great pubs and restaurants, such as Lamberts Kitchen and The Cosy Club make it particularly appealing for wealthy families and retirees. Its proximity to Rutland Water and the city of Peterborough (with fast rail links to London) adds to its appeal, as does the meandering River Welland that effortlessly weaves its way through this jewel in Lincolnshire’s crown.
Louth
Pitched as the “Gateway to the Wolds”, Louth is a charming market town on the edge of the Lincolnshire Wolds, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Often referred to as “Lincolnshire’s loveliest town”, Louth has a traditional feel with its weekly markets, independent shops, and friendly community spirit.
It has also carved out a growing reputation as a bit of a foodie heaven, with delicious offerings from local shops, pubs and eateries, including The Cheese Shop, which has gained national recognition.
St James’ Church, with its soaring spire, adds to the town’s distinctive skyline and locals enjoy easy access to picturesque walks, cycle routes, and quaint villages scattered throughout the Wolds, Lincolnshire Marsh and pristine chalk streams. With its slightly slower pace of life, it is perfect for those who want to enjoy countryside living without sacrificing essential amenities like good local schools, healthcare, and public transport links to the rest of the county and further afield.
Woodhall Spa
If you’re looking for a village-like environment with character, charm and wide tree-lined avenues, Woodhall Spa has space and elegance aplenty. Located equidistant between Lincoln and the coast, it's characterised by its Edwardian and spa heritage, offering an enviable blend of history, beautiful countryside, and community.
As one would expect with a well-healed spa town, properties both in the town and surrounding areas are very much in demand and prices sit significantly above the average for the region and UK. Despite its serene way of life, there is still plenty on offer within the town. It is home to the Kinema in the Woods, one of the UK’s oldest cinemas, dating back to 1922, as well as the famous Woodhall Spa Golf Club, considered one of the best inland courses in the country. The town itself has that certain grandeur, familiar with many of the UK’s spa towns, with leafy tree-lined avenues and impressive period houses. It’s ideal for retirees or anyone seeking a peaceful, picturesque environment within striking distance of the Lincolnshire coast.
Often overlooked in favour of more popular counties, Lincolnshire’s charm and quiet self-confidence is triggering something of a renaissance, increasingly becoming a draw for people looking for a cosy, picturesque and welcoming place to live. Whether it’s the rich history of Lincoln, the genteel beauty of Stamford, or the pastoral peace of Louth or Woodhall Spa, the county accommodates a wide range of lifestyles and is guaranteed to reward those who take a closer look.
