Attractions of the county capital

Lincoln is a destination that refuses to stand still – continually demonstrating its power to attract millions of pounds of inward investment, along with rising numbers of shoppers, students and tourists, writes Glynis Fox.
Despite the recent pressure on the retail sector, the city seems to be holding its own and capturing the attention of increasing numbers of people keen to explore its varied shopping offer, leisure facilities and tourist attractions.

Lincoln’s lively programme of events and the rising fortunes of Lincoln City Football Club are also proving a big magnet for sports fans and families looking to enjoy a mix of shopping, fun activities and eating out.

There is no doubt that Lincoln’s movers and shakers are keen to drive up this trend with initiatives that will improve the city’s economic fortunes by bringing further investment, jobs and opportunities our way.

Anyone arriving in Lincoln having spent a few years away from the city, might find it takes a little time to get their bearings, because several multi-million-pound developments have changed the streetscape and still more are expected to do so.

People arriving by train, will step out of Lincoln’s St Mary’s Street station to be faced with a sweeping new forecourt and when they look-up they will be greeted by an impressive state-of-the art bus station, flanked by a 1,000-space multi-storey car park.

This important ‘gateway’ leads into the city’s historic Cornhill Quarter, where an amazing three-phase regeneration project is underway. The ‘star’ centrepiece is the multi-award-winning Corn Exchange.

Chartered Surveyor Banks Long & Co, together with its client Lincolnshire Co-op and builder Lindum Group, recently celebrated when the £12m redevelopment of the stunning Grade II-listed Corn Exchange building won the Regeneration & Restoration category prize at the prestigious East Midlands Property Dinner at The Belfry in Nottingham.

It was the latest award recognising the amazing transformation of this historic building, parts of which date back to 1879, and which has always been one of Lincoln’s most recognisable city centre landmark buildings.

This iconic building forms a focal point in the continuing phased £70 million regeneration of the city’s Cornhill Quarter.

This will rejuvenate the area around Sincil Street, City Square and the Cornhill Quarter through a sensitive combination of repair, refurbishment, extension and new development.

Phase II is progressing well with timings on track for a completion before Christmas. This will include the space for Lakeland and will deliver 23,000 sq ft of retail space, as well as a bright, attractive walkway through to the multi-storey car park.

Banks Long & Co managing director, Tim Bradford said: “We are delighted that the Corn Exchange impressed judges in the East Midlands Property Awards. It is especially gratifying to be recognised in this by other professionals in the industry.

“The Corn Exchange really is the centrepiece of our major project in the city centre area and it is one of the first things people see when they walk into the city centre from the St Mary’s Street railway station, new car park or bus station.

“We are gearing up for Phase 3 which we expect to start building in early 2019. This phase will bring to Lincoln a four-screen Everyman cinema and other exciting daytime and evening brands.

“We are not exaggerating when we say that the Cornhill Quarter is a real game changer for the prosperity of the wider city as the quality of what is being delivered will attract a much wider catchment.”

Lincolnshire Co-op chief executive, Ursula Lidbetter said: “This award is testament to the great restoration work we have been carrying out on The Corn Exchange building, which forms part of the wider regeneration of the Cornhill Quarter development. We are pleased to have been able to restore a building which is a focal point for Lincoln City Centre.

“We believe we have developed a vision which really complements Lincoln and will attract even more visitors from Lincoln and the surrounding area, as well as tourists from further afield.”

More investment is being poured into Uphill Lincoln by expanding and relocating retailers keen to take their names to another fast-changing area of Lincoln.

Banks Long & Co has recently pre-let units on the Deacon Road Retail Park to JYSK, B&M Bargains and the charity Sue Ryder. Development is due to be completed by February 2019.

The Retail Park, which has captured the attention of such well-known brands, is a venture between Castle Square Developments and builder Lindum Construction.

There has also been a burst of activity on the nearby Carlton Centre, where Shoe Zone has snapped up the former Brantano unit – a move which has followed hot on the heels of the centre’s former Lidl outlet being leased to Poundland.

Progress being made on the Lincoln Eastern Bypass, which will also open the opportunity for further housing, are also increasing confidence in this part of the city, it is claimed.

Lincoln’s growth continues to attract the attention of the leisure sector, bringing an ever-evolving mix of themed bars and restaurants, pubs and nightclubs to the city – providing a bewildering choice for anyone looking for a night out.

Many are found along the city’s stylish Brayford Waterfront, which also boasts One The Brayford – a smart development of sixty-nine luxury apartments with retail/restaurant units below.

The city’s ever-changing leisure scene has led to Lincoln BIG and Visit Lincoln relaunching the Lincoln Ale Trail, which has featured thirty different venues, ranging from quirky pubs to themed bars and restaurant-bar combos, including three more recent arrivals.

The new Ale Trail leaflet is available from the city’s Visitor Information Centre in Castle Hill or can be ordered online from Visit Lincoln.

The Lawn Complex in Uphill Lincoln, owned by Stokes, has also recently welcomed a new tenant, the Olé Olé Tapas Bar, which has relocated to larger premises within the multi-faceted venue.

Facilities at The Lawn have been revitalised through a £2 million investment – to include a café and barista training centre, office space, retail units and The Blue Room, a versatile performance and events centre.

UNIVERSITY OF LINCOLN
One of the world’s great small cities, Lincoln is a melting pot of history and modern living, from the spectacular Lincoln Cathedral to the buzzing Brayford waterfront, which is home to the University of Lincoln’s inspiring campus.

With a fusion of state-of-the-art academic facilities and thoughtfully renovated historic buildings, the University has invested more than £300 million in to its campus and facilities over the past two decades, creating a vibrant and social space for staff, students and the wider community.

The campus’s welcoming environment is peppered with cafes and eateries. Visitors can enjoy a stroll along the Brayford Pool, and take in views of the waterfront, Castle and Cathedral, and meet the local waterfowl which waddle along the pathways snaking through the waterside campus. The friendly campus is open to the public year round – and there is plenty to make a visit to campus worthwhile.

The best way to find out more about the University of Lincoln and its campus is to visit it for yourself. Open Days offer a great opportunity to explore not just the University, but your study options too.

Visit www.lincoln.ac.uk/opendays for more.

DRIVING INVESTMENT
Heavy investment has dramatically changed the face of Lincoln in recent years, but business leaders and decision-makers are hungry to see more.

That is why a new initiative, Be Lincoln, is taking shape in a drive to help all businesses to raise the city’s profile.

The concept brings together the expertise of Visit Lincoln and the City of Lincoln Council to drive growth across the categories of talent, tourism and trade.

Visit Lincoln chief executive, Lydia Rusling said: “Lincoln has developed at a real pace into a vibrant and thriving place, which now acts as the economic driver for the Lincolnshire area.”

Be Lincoln has three clear goals:
Attracting investment and matching investors with the destination
Engaging with Lincoln’s businesses
Integrating and strengthening investment into the city with Lincoln’s Live, Visit and Learn offer

Be Lincoln will have an online hub – promoting inward investment, generating leads and sharing research.

There will also be proactive marketing, digital campaigns and a communication plan, an Invest Network open to all businesses, the sharing of Be Lincoln branding and expert support from a team which is already promoting Lincoln as a place to Visit, Live and Learn.

As we went to press businesses were being urged to register their interest in this initiative.

CELEBRATE THE FESTIVE SEASON AT THE PYEWIPE INN
Set in idyllic waterside grounds, The Pyewipe Inn offers spacious and relaxed surroundings in which to wine, dine and celebrate the festive season with family, friends and colleagues.

“The Pyewipe offers a choice of Party Evenings when you can bring your party to our party. The Pyewipe Tipis, which are so popular for celebrating weddings and special occasions, are also ideal for Christmas get-togethers. Renowned for our on-site accommodation, fine menus, well-kept ales and excellent wines the fantastic team at The Pyewipe are ready to help you celebrate in style.”

Enjoy locally sourced ingredients, all home prepared by the inn’s knowledgeable chefs. They also have real understanding of special dietary needs.

Bookings are now being taken for Christmas at The Pyewipe Inn with special seasonal menus throughout December.

For more information speak to one of the advisors by calling 01522 528708 or visit www.pyewipe.co.uk

CLEAR VIEW OPTICIANS
Did you know there are an estimated one million children with an undiagnosed vision problem?

Good eyesight is crucial in making sure a child develops to their full potential both at school and socially. It’s especially important to look after children’s eyes – the eye is still developing throughout early childhood so if problems are treated early, it can make a lasting difference. It’s never too early to have a sight test.

How do I know if my child has an eye problem?
Signs which may show there is a problem with a child’s sight include:
An eye appearing to drift inwards or outwards
Difficulty concentrating
Behavioural problems
Headaches
Sitting too close to the television
Frequent eye rubbing

Symptoms of a vision problem
This could mean your child needs glasses or that they have an eye that is healthy but does not see as well, otherwise known as a ‘lazy eye’.

When should my child visit the optometrist?
We recommend that children have a sight test around the age of three, so that conditions are picked up and treated early.

What else can I do to look after my child’s eyes?
Get them outdoors – regular play and exercise can help with eye health.
Make sure they eat healthily and drink enough fluids
Protect their eyes from the sun – never let them look directly into the sun and make sure they always wear good-quality sunglasses with the ‘CE’ quality mark and the British Standard BS EN 1836:2005

To book your child in for an eye examination call Clear View Opticians, 169 Burton Road, Lincoln, LN1 3LW 01522 542121 or email enquiries@clearviewopticians.co.uk

PLENTY TO SMILE ABOUT AT THE DENTURE STUDIO
Lincoln’s Denture Studio, which can supply dentures directly to the public, was opened 18 months ago by Jo and Greg Jones. Greg is a qualified Clinical Dental Technician and is able to both take an impression and create the specification of denture, unique and bespoke to each client he sees. “We felt there was a need for this type of service in the city,” said Greg. “It has only been in recent years that this type of qualification has been attainable in the UK. Jo is a qualified Dental Technician so together we can provide the care and expertise for our clients.”

Greg offers a free initial consultation with no obligation for patients and understands the urgency with which either breakages or replacement dentures need to be delivered. “We do our utmost to achieve timescales as quickly as possible to put the smile back on people’s faces,” said Jo. The Denture Studio can supply complete dentures or partial dentures with a referral from a dentist. Contact us for more information. We also offer flexible or chrome dentures, and sports mouthguards in a range of funky colours. Domiciliary visits to nursing homes and private residences are arranged by appointment.

“We receive many letters of thanks from patients,” Greg added. “One recently wrote: ‘The care could not have been greater – I have got my smile back.’ That is very satisfying.”

The Denture Studio
Flat 2, Doddington Road,
Lincoln LN6 7HD
Tel: 01522 694811
www.thedenturestudioltd.co.uk

WHERE SEASONAL PRODUCE SHINES
The Jews House Restaurant is located in one of Lincoln’s most iconic buildings where head chef, Gavin Aitkenhead, with restaurant and wine manager, Samantha Tomkins offer the best in food, wine and service.

They opened the restaurant in 2006, creating and serving dishes with wines to match. They offer four and six-course tasting menus inspired by Gavin’s travels across countries like Asia, Spain, Italy, France as well as England.

“I would describe my style as creative and innovative without being overly influenced too much by modern trends,” said Gavin. “I am constantly looking and creating new ideas. Going on guests’ feedback, my passion and skill shines through my cooking, which is very popular with our many regular diners.”

Samantha runs front of house, supported by head waitress, Alex Maddison and writes and travels to compile the wine list. Gavin and Samantha have had the aim since day one to provide the best service and food using the best ingredients.

“Our menus change with the seasons, some ingredients are only available for a short time at their best so we let them speak for themselves on the plate.”

Gavin creates dishes with help from sous chef, Jack Bridges and one other chef; all are encouraged to contribute their own ideas to the main menus.

The Jews House Restaurant is ideal for small private parties, business lunches and small wedding breakfasts as well as fine dining.

The Jews House Restaurant
15 The Strait,
Lincoln LN2 1JD
Tel: 01522 524851
www.jewshouserestaurant.co.uk

FESTIVE FUN
Lincoln is simply magical at Christmas and the coming festivities promise even more fun than ever.

Local families won’t want to miss out on the action and the main problem visitors are likely to encounter is deciding when is the best time to book a break!

Lincoln BIG, Visit Lincoln, the City of Lincoln Council and other partners and friends have lined up a stupendous programme of attractions and events.

“The secret’s already out. We’ve got sparkling lights just waiting to be switched-on with some great celebrities, laugh-out loud pantomimes and other festive shows, a lantern parade, reindeer visiting from the Cairngorms and even a trio of camels, who will be with us just in time to catch the city’s pop-up Christmas Souk in Ruddock’s former shop in the city’s High Street.”

Add to that Lincoln’s World famous Christmas Market, late night shopping and Thor’s Scandinavian Tipi Bar, for a festive drink with a uniquely different setting and that’s only part of it.

Readers can find out more by www.visitlincoln.com

CHRISTMAS AT THE LITTLE RED GALLERY
A beautiful artwork is a gift for the whole year not just for Christmas, so at The Little Red Gallery they help you not only find the perfect piece but also give you peace of mind if there are any doubts.

With galleries in Lincoln’s picturesque Bailgate and in the heart of majestic Stamford, there is plenty of chance to drop in before the seasonal rush and browse at your leisure. Going to the Lincoln Christmas Market? Why not stop in for a mince pie and maybe a mulled wine.

You will find plenty of work by all the familiar names – Picasso, Warhol and Emin, as well as up and coming names and modern masters.

If you have something in mind that you’re looking to track down, Hazel Venn or one of her super friendly staff can order it in for you, and still beat the deadline for Christmas giving.

If you would like to spread the cost of your purchase The Little Red Gallery are able to offer payment plans or a 0% interest scheme. Just get in touch for more details on how they can personally tailor these to your needs.

Try-before-you-buy is also available which gives you time to approve the artwork in your home before you complete your purchase. A price match service assures you of not only the best of customer service from this local, independent retail gallery but also the best value for money.

The Little Red Gallery is open 10am till 6pm every day (closed on Wednesday in Stamford).

Little Red Gallery
8 Bailgate, Lincoln LN1 3AE
Tel: 01522 589134
8 St Mary’s Hill, Stamford PE9 2DP
Tel: 01780 762288
www.thelittleredgallery.co.uk

ROGER DAVIS INTERIORS
Roger Davis Interiors is Lincoln’s longest-serving curtain and blind specialist. Adrian Davis, who co-founded the business with his father, continues to develop relationships with luxury suppliers to bring new and exclusive ranges of soft-furnishings to Lincolnshire and the surrounding area.

“When we moved into our superb new showroom four years ago, we became one of only four retailers in the country to offer JAB’s Shop-in-Shop concept, and we now invite you to see the region’s first Luxaflex International showroom display. We’re also pleased to announce we have become a Sandberg representative, making Roger Davis Interiors the only place in the county where you can see their full range of quality Swedish wallpapers.

“Our ethos is to bring together a collection of fabrics, wallpapers and blinds you won’t be able to find elsewhere in the region, all under one roof, in a very relaxed and pleasant atmosphere.”

www.rogerdavisinteriors.com

A FINE PROPERTY PORTFOLIO
Fine & Country Lincolnshire is part of an international chain of independently owned estate agency businesses and prides itself on a unique blend of local knowledge, customer care and service together with intelligent and creative marketing, which, combined with their professional approach, delivers the ultimate service and exposure, whether you are buying or selling a property.

“We strive to service a small and bespoke portfolio of properties throughout the county which allows us to provide our clients with the necessary attention and focus that selling or buying a property so often requires.

“Our local knowledge of Lincolnshire and more specifically the country homes market within the region enables us to deliver the best result. The Lincolnshire office is run by Chartered Surveyors with many years’ combined experience and is strategically located in the thriving village of Navenby. We have sold properties from £150,000 to £1,500,000 since opening in 2015 and look forward to continuous success in an ever-changing market.”

TWENTY YEARS OF SPECIALIST EYE CARE IN LINCOLNSHIRE
Walters Opticians is a family run independent Opticians based in Gainsborough and North Hykeham. Established in January 1998 by Roy and Anna Walters, 2018 saw the practice enter its 20th year.

The practice has grown dramatically within these twenty years, with the opening of a second practice in North Hykeham in 2006.

We offer many specialised services, one of which is a tear clinic.

The clinic specialises in the diagnosis and treatment of the symptoms of dry eye disease by testing and assessing the severity of the dry eye and recommending a suitable treatment.

A tear clinic appointment will include a laboratory level test of the tear film, detailed assessment, a clinical in-house treatment and a personalised maintenance plan.

“Dry eye disease affects one-third of the UK population. It is a chronic condition that needs to be managed. The majority of our patients show an improvement after four-to-six weeks.

“We are extremely proud to offer this service in both of our practices.”

If you suffer from any of the symptoms of dry eye, call the clinic now and book an appointment with tear clinic specialist Karen Everett.

ENJOY UNFORGETTABLE MUSIC IN A MAJESTIC SETTING
Following its premiere in Dublin in 1742, Messiah quickly became one of Handel’s most popular pieces of music and has been performed around the globe every year since 1945.

Saturday 24th November will see the return of Lincoln Cathedral Choir with their performance of this spectacular piece, this year accompanied by Lincolnshire Chamber Orchestra.

Messiah features one of the most famous pieces of choral music, the Hallelujah Chorus, however this piece has so much more to offer. Messiah differs from Handel’s usual oratorio style in the fact that it is made up of striking solo arias, interspersed with captivating chorus numbers telling the story of Jesus’ birth, life, death and victorious resurrection.

Immerse yourself in the incredible acoustics of the Cathedral’s Nave, as this is sure to be an unforgettable evening of great music.

Tickets are available from lincolncathedral.com and the Cathedral Gift Shop. For accessible seating please call 01522 504394.

LONG-TERM FOSTER CARERS NEEDED IN LINCOLNSHIRE
Across England, it is estimated that a further 5,900 foster families are needed over the next twelve months to meet the increasing numbers of children coming into care, according to The Fostering Network.

Whilst the picture in Lincolnshire mirrors this with a steady increase in the number of children needing foster homes locally, there is a real and urgent need for people to come forward specifically to look after children and young people for long-term fostering.

Many of the children who are currently waiting for a long-term foster family in Lincolnshire are part of a sibling group who need to be placed together with their brothers and sisters. It is recognised that being placed with their siblings can help a child settle into a new family and have a positive sense of who they are.

Long-term fostering can be challenging, but it is also hugely rewarding. There are numerous benefits to the child, namely having one stable family home to grow up in rather than moving around the care system.

If you feel that you could offer a stable and loving long-term home to a child or sibling group, we would love to hear from you. We encourage you to attend our fostering information evenings which are being held from 7pm – 9pm on Tuesday 13th November at Branston Hall Hotel in Lincoln, and on Tuesday 20th November at Boston West Golf Club in Boston.

To book your place, log on at www.lincolnshire.gov.uk/fosterevening or call 01522 554114 for more information.

HISTORIC HALL PREPARES FOR ANOTHER MAGICAL FESTIVE SEASON
After weeks of preparation, Lincolnshire’s Doddington Hall will unveil its magical transformation when it opens its doors for the festive season on Sunday 25th November.

This year the Elizabethan stately home, just five miles outside of Lincoln, will be dressed in spectacular style to mark the 60th anniversary since the first Christmas trees were planted in Doddington’s own ‘Christmas Wood’.

The theme ‘O Christmas Tree’ will celebrate trees in every size, shape, form and material. And what makes it extra special is that all the decorations – from the Victorian themed Parlour to the festive forest in the Long Gallery – have been carefully designed and home crafted by the Doddington team itself. There will be some special fun twists to look out for including the quirky food inspired decorations in the Great Hall and the Christmas Tree ladies in the Drawing Room. The route will take visitors eventually to the huge Christmas Tree in the Long Gallery, which will be the star of the show.

Visitors keen to beat the crowds and get into the Christmas mood early can kickstart their celebrations with a trip to the Bauble Barn and Toy Shop in the Stable Yard, which opened to the public on Saturday 6th October.

Doddington Hall will be open five days a week between Sunday 25th November and Sunday 23rd December: Wednesday to Friday 12-4pm, Saturday & Sunday 10am-4pm. Details can be found on www.doddingtonhall.com

GIVE RETIREMENT LIVING A TRY
If you are seeking a luxurious setting in which to spend your retirement, then why not try before you buy with Keystone Developments.

“We are offering people the chance to spend two nights, completely free of charge, at one of two stunning properties in Lincolnshire.

“With no pressure to buy or reserve, you can give retirement living a try and find out what it’s really like to live in a vibrant and active community.”

The two developments that are available to try are:
Home Grange – made up of 36 one and two-bedroom apartments in North Hykeham and overlooking Grade II listed Boultham Park, Home Grange is just two miles from the historic Lincoln Cathedral and offers freedom and independence for its home owners.

Carrington Gardens – situated on Humberston Avenue, close to the coastal resort of Cleethorpes, Carrington Gardens offers a choice of one, two and three bedroom bungalows and one bedroom apartments designed exclusively for the over 55s.

“People that have already moved into these developments have told us they wished they had done it years ago and those waiting on the reserve list cannot wait to move in.”

To find out more visit keystonedevelopments.co.uk

MIRROR MIRROR ON THE WALL, WHO IS THE FAIREST OF THEM ALL?
The 125-year-old New Theatre Royal has welcomed 110,000 people to enjoy the very best live shows in the last 24 months. The programme is shaped to appeal to all ages and tastes. The Autumn/Winter season pinnacle is 68 performances of Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, produced by the theatre’s award-winning in-house team and proudly sponsored by Brewin Dolphin.

West End, X Factor and Celebrity Big Brother star Amelia Lily to take centre stage at the New Theatre Royal Lincoln as the ‘Unicorn Fairy’, following her critically acclaimed appearance in Shrek The Musical.

Joining Amelia is Christopher Johnson, a CBBC presenter, as the loveable Muddles and one of Blue Peter’s longest serving hosts Barney Harwood, making his debut in Lincoln as the Huntsman.

If you have yet to experience the magic of pantomime then expect infectious humour, catchy songs, lots of audience participation and a good dose of festive cheer.

To follow the cast and crew backstage through the rehearsals of the show visit NTR on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter and following the hashtag #NTRSnowWhite2018

Perfect for all ages, with specially produced, relaxed and signed performances too Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs runs from 4th December 2018 to 6th January 2019. Tickets are available from www.newtheatreroyallincoln.co.uk or at the Box Office on 01522 519999. Tickets start at £15. Group tickets are available for 10+ people.

Apply the code ‘LincsLife10’ at the booking stage for 10% off your tickets. Terms and conditions apply.

FOCUSING ON PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT
At the moment, parents and carers of children with learning disabilities across the county are having reviews for their child’s Education and Health Care Plan (EHCP). They are exploring, and deciding upon, their preferred provision.

Linkage College is an independent further education college with unrivalled expertise in working with young people whose learning difficulties and disabilities may be a barrier to their participation in full-time learning within in a mainstream setting.

Offering specialist learning experience to people aged 16-25 with a range of learning difficulties and disabilities, Linkage has three campus across Lincolnshire:
Boultham Park Education Centre in Lincoln
Weelsby campus in Grimsby
Toynton campus near Spilsby.

The college provides a happy, safe and exceptional learning experience to support young people to develop the skills and behaviours needed to transition into adulthood with a greater amount of independence.

Through personalised study programmes, project-based learning and a strong focus on personal and social development and employability, the whole learner is nurtured and developed, not just their academic achievement.

If you are exploring post-16 options for a young person with a learning disability, go along to one of the campus open days to see for yourself what Linkage has to offer.

Spilsby – Toynton Campus Open Days
Toynton All Saints, Spilsby, PE23 5AE
Saturday 10th November (10.30am-2.30pm)
Tuesday 4th December (10.30am-4pm)
Saturday 12th January 2019 (10.30am-2.30pm)
Grimsby – Weelsby Campus Open Days
Weelsby Road, Grimsby, DN32 9RU
Friday 12th October (10.30am-4pm)
Saturday 17th November (10.30am-2.30 pm)
Friday 14th December (10.30am-4.30pm)
Saturday 19th January 2019 (10.30am-2.30pm)

Lincoln – Boultham Park Education Centre Open Days
Rookery Lane, Lincoln, LN6 7PH
Saturday 24th November (10.30am-2.30pm)
Thursday 13th December (10.30am-4pm)
Thursday 17th January 2019 (10.30am-4pm)

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