Ready with the warmest festive welcome!

Lincoln dazzles in the run-up to Christmas. By Glynis Fox.

The city is always an irresistible magnet for explorers, shoppers and families looking for fun and entertainment. As the festive season approaches it’s an extra special time, when the City of Lincoln Council, its many partners and welcoming shopkeepers pull together to create a beautifully festive street scene with special lights and other decorative touches, guaranteed to captivate locals and visitors to the city.

Whether you start in the historic Bailgate area, pause in Castle Hill to marvel at our world-famous Lincoln Cathedral and illuminated Lincoln Castle, then wander down amazing Steep Hill into the city centre, or do it the other way around, you’ll find the festive vibe everywhere and it’s truly infectious!

Keep your eyes open for Santa Claus, we’ve heard he is going to be in his Grotto in the Waterside Shopping Centre from 23rd November, when he arrives with his reindeer.

It’s definitely going to be a very busy time, so families who want to meet him in the run-up to Christmas are advised to book their visit – via the centre’s website www.watersideshopping.com

Lincoln Cathedral will get a glow-up for the Christmas season when the Advent candles are lit at a service on 29th November. Lincoln’s official lights switch-on will take place on 27th November.

It’s a brilliant moment when excited families turn out in force to join the countdown to the ‘switch’ being flicked. People are urged to note the date and ensure they are standing in the High Street, opposite the war memorial by 7pm, ready for the big moment and fun entertainment.

This year’s switch-on will be performed by Lincoln’s Mayor, Councillor Bill Mara, who will be accompanied by the British Olympian gymnast Louis Smith MBE alongside other members of the cast of this year’s New Theatre Royal Lincoln pantomime, Robin Hood.

It’s definitely not to be missed, and if you arrive in the city centre earlier, you can catch Waterside Shopping Centre’s own switch-on first. Entertainment starts at 5.45pm and the lights go on at 6.45pm.

There will be free face painting, balloon modelling and a stilt walker. The mall will stay open until 7pm on this evening and the following Thursdays for late night shopping.

Lincoln’s dazzling illuminations will be found all over the city, so look out for them in Bailgate, Exchequergate, Brayford Wharf, at the Stonebow, in City Square, the bustling Cornhill Quarter and at the Transport Hub, as well as in the High Street.

Make sure you have your mobile phone or camera handy, so you can snap some special photos of family and friends, especially in front of the illuminated Lincoln sign, which you will find at St Paul in The Bail, and the Christmas Present frame in the Cornhill Quarter.

By the time you read this, Thor’s Tipi will have returned to Lincoln Cornhill (24th October) so it’s a great time to take a break from Christmas shopping, pop inside, warm your hands and enjoy a delicious hot chocolate.

Another unmissable attraction that is making a comeback is the fabulous Lincoln Ice Adventure which you can enjoy between 11am and 5pm on 6th and 7th December. It promises to be enchanting and create plenty of shivers of excitement!

Last year’s amazing ice sculptures featured a stag’s head, the Lincoln Imp, Christmas bells and even a Steampunk Snowman. What will we see this time around? Well, definitely ice carving at St Paul in The Bail.

Excitingly, there will also be a festive adventure where, if visitors locate all the sculptures, they will be able to find clues to a Christmas message!

During the weekend of the ice trail, Waterside Shopping Centre will have a snow globe which shoppers can pop inside and pose for some Christmassy photos.

CITY INVESTMENT
Lincoln continues to benefit from inward investment, which has seen the arrival of a variety of new eateries, leisure attractions and shops, plus the Central Market is bright and welcoming after benefitting from a multi-million pound revamp.

Other leisure attractions in the city centre include the Everyman Cinema and The Botanist restaurant, the Odeon Cinema overlooking the Brayford Pool and University of Lincoln campus, the New Theatre Royal Lincoln, The Drill and the LPAC (the Lincoln Performing Arts Centre).

It’s always worth checking when pantomimes or Christmas shows are coming up, but if your family prefer to be more active, Lincoln recently welcomed Gutterball, which has moved into the former Boots store in the High Street.

This multi-faceted leisure venue, which is owned by Lane7, opened in the former Boots store and offers a wide range of activities, featuring a bowling alley, pool tables, ping pong, shuffleboard and arcade gaming.

There’s also the chance to play indoor golf at Virtually Golf in Brayford Wharf.

If your family loves a great pantomime, this year the New Theatre Royal Lincoln is staging Robin Hood, from 5th December until 4th January.

Every year, Lincoln continues to grow, develop and become more diverse as a magnet for tourists, university and college students, adult learners, workers across all professions and newcomers who decide Lincoln is a great place to call home.

SHOP AND STAY
Whilst everyone is spoilt for choice when it comes to choosing their favourite festive attractions and activities, there’s always plenty to tempt people to visit all year round.

Lincoln’s shopping offer has mushroomed in recent years and there are so many areas to explore, from the Cornhill and Markets area to the busy High Street and Bailgate, giving shopaholics the option of popping into branches of the major multiples as well as independent stores offering something different.

In the Cornhill Quarter you will find brands such as WH Smith, Joules, Seasalt and Whistles, trading alongside smaller businesses including Jailhouse Frock, Chamber’s Florists and Freckleface.

The uphill cobbled Bailgate area and Steep Hill are historic and intimate and home to restaurants, coffee shops, the city’s Tourist Information Office, fashions, gifts and chemist outlets.

If you’re looking to stay, the Grade I-listed White Hart Hotel in Bailgate has just undergone a £15.5 million refurbishment. Another choice, in nearby Eastgate, is The Lincoln Hotel which overlooks the Cathedral, but there are other places to stay in both the uphill part of Lincoln and the High Street area.

There is much more to the city, with two museums to visit, the centuries-old Guildhall with its fabulous treasure and the Usher Art Gallery to name just a few, but it really works its magic during the festive season.

That is when its first-time visitors are left impressed and often leave promising they will soon be back to sample more of the city’s hospitality and its changing shopping and leisure scene.

LOCAL ENTREPRENEUR WINS BIG, SHOWCASING TRADITIONAL CRAFTSMANSHIP
Lincolnshire businessman Stuart Burlton has been named Entrepreneur of the Year at the 2025 Lincolnshire Marketing Awards. As managing director of the Make An Entrance family of entrance matting companies, Stuart’s recognition also shines a spotlight on one of their most cherished brands: CoirMats.co.uk.

Stuart says: “It’s an incredible honour to be recognised in this way. Our journey has been about combining traditional skills with modern thinking, and this award reflects the creativity and hard work of our entire team.”

Specialising in hand-crafted traditional coconut doormats, the team behind Coir Mats has spent generations perfecting their craft. Their bespoke mats grace country homes, historic estates, and heritage properties across the UK. Each mat is lovingly made here in Lincolnshire from sustainable materials. By blending time-honoured materials with expert craftsmanship, coirmats.co.uk sets the standard in quality and tradition.

Congratulations to Stuart Burlton and his team!

Make An Entrance Limited, 8 Crofton Drive, Lincoln LN3 4NR. Tel: 01522 246838, www.coirmats.co.uk

FABULOUS FLOORING FOR ALL
At Lincolnshire Carpet Warehouse, exceptional service is the foundation of everything we do.

We are more than just a flooring provider – we’re a team of dedicated professionals committed to helping our customers transform their spaces with confidence and ease.

From the moment you walk through our doors, you’ll be greeted by knowledgeable staff who understand the ins and outs of carpets, vinyls and LVT (luxury vinyl tiles). We take the time to listen, advise, and tailor our recommendations to suit your lifestyle, budget, and design vision.

Our dedication doesn’t end at the sale, we ensure smooth installation and aftercare, treating every home as if it were our own. With years of experience and a passion for quality, Lincolnshire Carpet Warehouse stands as a trusted name in flooring.

Your satisfaction is our priority, and we’re here to make your flooring journey seamless, stylish and stress-free. Let us help you step into comfort.

Find us at Studio Three, Westminster Road, Lincoln, or for more information call 01522 412087 or visit www.lincolnshirecarpetwarehouse.co.uk

PROTECT YOUR HOME AND BUSINESS
Since 1974, Lincoln Security has been trusted to protect homes and businesses across the UK.

With decades of experience and a proven reputation for excellence, we deliver high quality bespoke security and fire solutions carefully tailored to every client.

Based in North Hykeham, our expert team takes the time to understand your home, your lifestyle and your priorities, ensuring every detail is right.

Whether you are enhancing the security of your family home, or safeguarding a valuable property, we provide bespoke solutions that offer complete peace of mind.

Combining the latest technology with traditional craftsmanship, our systems are both reliable and beautifully designed to complement your space.

Every installation is completed to the highest standard by skilled professionals who take genuine pride in their work. And if the perfect option doesn’t already exist, we will create it for you with care and precision.

For more information visit www.lincolnsecurity.co.uk

FAST AND FLEXIBLE MEDICAL TREATMENTS
Welcome to Private GP Lincs, a newly established private GP practice developed by Lincolnshire and District Medical Services (LADMS).

We are dedicated to providing fast, reliable and personalised healthcare services. Whether you’re in need of preventive care, treatment for ongoing conditions, or specialist help, we offer a range of services tailored to meet your needs.

With increasing pressure on NHS services and growing concern over mental and physical health, access to private GP care is becoming a highly valued benefit.

Our service offers:
• Same-day or next-day appointments, in-person or by telephone to suit you
• On-the-day doctor – call or book online from 9am to 2pm, Monday to Friday and a GP will call you back within three hours of your booking time
• Comprehensive and confidential consultations and arranged follow-ups
• A focus on preventive care and ongoing health management
• Support with mental health, chronic conditions, and lifestyle advice
• Convenient booking and flexible packages to suit you. 

For more information contact Private GP Lincs, 66 Upgate, Louth LN11 9JN.

Tel: 01507 308820 (ext 206) or email hello@privategplincs.co.uk. For information and online bookings visit www.privategplincs.co.uk

CUTTING-EDGE DESIGNS
Jonathan Hendry Architects (JHA) creates extraordinary homes and unique community spaces that feel as if they belong to the landscape.

From its village-based office, this award-winning team delivers bespoke projects across Lincolnshire, Nottinghamshire, Rutland and beyond.

Founded in 2000 by RIBA Chartered architect Jonathan Hendry, the team comprises architects Holly Barker, Bailey Rawson-Spink and Hayley Breen, supported by director Katy Hendry.

Together, they bring 40-plus years’ experience and approach each commission with a collaborative spirit, ensuring that every design is as unique as the client and the landscape it serves.

JHA’s approach is more than that of a traditional architect: their end-to-end service includes concept, curation, procurement, project management and supervision of the build.

At the heart of JHA’s work are three guiding principles: context, craft and materiality.

“Craftsmanship is key. During the design process we spend a lot of time testing ideas and elements that feel hand-crafted and of exceptional quality, with intention and heritage behind every part of the design.”

Design process
The design process is iterative, narrative-driven and involves testing ideas by sketching, drawing and exploring form and space through digital and physical models.

Whether the client is seeking a sensitive intervention within an existing context or a fully curated new-build design with everything from interior finishes to fittings, every detail is considered with these principles in mind.

Everything is chosen with intention, from locally sourced building materials, where possible, to the highly skilled traditional craftspeople such as joiners and stonemasons.

For example, Clump Farm, near North Willingham was a historic yet derelict farmyard, reborn under JHA’s care. The last remaining stone wall of significance became the inspiration for the new dwelling. The wall was repurposed to form the exterior wall of the build and its traditional rubble construction informed the rest of the design concept. Ironstones, thrown up by farmers ploughing the surrounding fields, were incorporated, giving the home a sense of permanence and timelessness.

For JHA, this was a moment of ‘full circle design’, with ancient materials reclaimed and repurposed to honour the landscape and its history.

This intention and respect for the local environment has placed JHA as the leading practice for ‘Paragraph 84 projects’. This exception clause in the UK’s National Planning Policy Framework allows for the construction of isolated new homes in the countryside, provided they meet the stringent requirements of exceptional architectural design quality, environmental excellence and high sustainability performance.

Community projects
Alongside Paragraph 84 houses, the team has delivered projects of wide-ranging typologies. These include high-profile community projects such as the National Trust’s Sandilands Visitor Centre, commercial studios for start-ups at Holton Studios and Deeping St James, and an award-winning coastal holiday home at Anderby Creek, all of which share the same unique architectural design and bespoke, user-centric build. But look closely and you’ll find that every design has a totally individual story, with its roots in the local landscape in which it is situated.

This is what makes JHA special; a respect for the natural environment and heritage craftsmanship combined with cutting-edge design that lends itself perfectly to modern, multi-generational, living.

To explore JHA’s portfolio and make an enquiry about your own dream project, visit www.jonathanhendryarchitects.com or call 01522 458100.

BRANSBY HORSES: WHERE EVERY VISIT MAKES A DIFFERENCE
For more than 50 years, Bransby Horses has been dedicated to rescuing, rehabilitating, and caring for equines in need. Today, we support nearly 1,000 horses, ponies, donkeys, and mules, with around 250 living at our peaceful sanctuary and over 600 thriving in foster homes across the UK.

Your visit helps us continue this vital work, as we rely entirely on public support to give these animals a second chance at life.

While here, enjoy more than just meeting our equines. Explore beautiful countryside walks, let the kids play in our spacious playground, and relax in our award-winning café, serving delicious homemade meals and treats.

Bransby Horses is the perfect destination for animal lovers and families looking for a day out that truly makes a difference.

For more information visit www.bransbyhorses.co.uk

HOME-MADE PUB CLASSICS AT THE CHEQUERS
If you’re looking for a traditional village pub which is not only inviting and welcoming with friendly, efficient staff but also serves outstanding food, real ales, plus excellent cocktails and wines, The Chequers in Potterhanworth is fast proving a favourite with diners.

A sister pub/restaurant to The Pyewipe and Cognito, this historic dog-friendly inn, which dates back to the 18th century, is now under new management and offers home-made pub classics, plus a daily specials board and children’s menu, as well as delicious Sunday lunch, all cooked with quality, fresh ingredients and presented with care.

There is also a delightful beer garden with comfy seats and cosy corners, perfect for leisurely outdoor eating and drinking in the summer months.

The restaurant is open Wednesday and Thursday 5pm-9pm, Friday and Saturday 12noon-9pm and Sunday 12noon-5pm. Reservations are recommended with walk-ins welcome, subject to availability.

Larger parties can also be catered for.

Visit www.chequerspotterhanworth.co.uk or find The Chequers on Facebook and Instagram

BRINGING BACK NATURAL SMILES
The Denture Studio on Doddington Road is celebrating eight years of providing expert denture treatments to Lincoln.

Husband and wife team Gregory and Johanna Jones, who have more than 50 years’ experience in dental technology, provide a caring and personable approach for their patients in a friendly, relaxed environment. The team offers free consultations and advice to patients looking to discuss denture treatment options, with a range of quality bespoke dentures hand-crafted by Greg and Jo themselves.

“We combine our expertise to help create natural looking smiles for patients and take a ‘no rush’ approach, allowing clients as much time as they need while also listening to their needs to ensure that we get an amazing end result.”

The clinic, which also benefits from free on-site parking, offers a large range of full and partial dentures with a professional fitting service, including acrylic, cobalt chrome and Valplast flexible dentures, as well as denture relines, cleaning and repairs, and sports gumshields.

The Denture Studio is open Monday to Friday, from 9.30am to 5pm.

For more information visit www.thedenturestudioltd.co.uk

MORE THAN 46 YEARS IN BUSINESS
Lincoln Print & Copy Centre has been trading in Lincoln for more than 46 years – a time of many changes in printing and the wider community of businesses, public sector organisations, clubs and societies in and around the city. Keeping up with the changing business environment means making changes in the way the business works, especially in uncertain times.

Lincoln Print & Copy Centre has invested in a refreshed website, new print production and print finishing equipment installed over the past few years, enabling the business to keep up to date on print quality.

New staff have come into the business bringing enthusiasm in learning new skills. A range of printers from top suppliers ensures leaflets, posters, brochures, plan prints, and many other items, are supplied at good prices and excellent quality in exactly the quantity customers need. A particular speciality is quick turnaround on those last-minute items. Don’t forget those leaflets, posters and programmes for seasonal events.

Still a family-run business with connections to other businesses in the area, “If we can’t do something – we can direct you to a business that can!”

For more information visit www.lincolncopycentre.co.uk

WINTER GARDENING TIPS FROM FULLERS
Keeping your garden looking good while dealing with the challenges of the season can be rewarding.

Here are some quick fixes to enhance your garden during the colder months:
• Tidy up: Start by clearing away any fallen leaves, dead plants, and clutter.
• Protect your lawn: To prevent muddy tracks and damage from foot traffic, lay a path through high-traffic areas.
• Add winter colour: Introduce colour with winter-flowering plants in containers and window boxes, e.g. pansies, cyclamen, violas, and hellebores (Christmas or winter roses).
• Highlight shrubs: Choose shrubs that offer both greenery and colour. Cornus sanguinea, or ‘Midwinter Fire’, has striking red stems that brighten up the garden, while witch hazel provides beautiful yellow, orange, or pink flowers.
• Illuminate for winter darkness: Lanterns, fairy lights and well-lit walkways can create a welcoming atmosphere.

Ensure that lighting is functional and safe, especially on paths and driveways.

Find out how Fullers Landscaping can transform your garden.

01522 868717 / fullerslandscapinguk@gmail.com / www.fullers.garden

NEW EXHIBITIONS AT HARDING HOUSE
For autumn, in the upstairs gallery Harding House Gallery is looking forward to hosting a new exhibition, DJ Gouldsbrough’s ‘Vivid’ – cityscapes of Lincoln in vivid colour from 18th October to 2nd November.

This will be followed by a seasonal exhibition, All That Glisters, opening on 15th November and continuing until 25th January.

The gallery features unique works by invited artists with a superb selection of festive gift ideas. The ground floor gallery has a wide variety of handmade items from the co-operative members and around 50 other artists.

“Do call in and browse our lovely artworks, we’d love to see you. We will be having some necessary maintenance work downstairs during January so we may be closed for a few days. More information on the website soon.”

If you would like to find out more about selling artworks or becoming a member of the co-operative call 01522 523537 or visit www.hardinghousegallery.co.uk

VISIT THE LITTLE RED GALLERY
The Little Red Gallery is one of Lincoln’s largest art galleries. Located on the historic Bailgate, only seconds away from the cathedral and the castle, this gallery is a perfect addition to your must-sees. 

While it might look deceptively small, this gallery is a rabbit warren of rooms and staircases. This is a place you definitely need to go in and explore!

With a price range from as low as £20 to as high as £20,000, and a well-deserved reputation for their wide range of styles, there is something here for everyone. 

This family-run, independent business is always a pleasure to visit. The staff are all fun to talk to, always helpful, and have a vast knowledge of art and art history. The display is constantly changing, with new work arriving weekly. This is a shop to visit again and again! 

For more information call 01522 589134 or visit www.thelittleredgallery.co.uk

EMBRACING LIVE-IN CARE
When the time comes to arrange care for a loved one, families are often faced with difficult choices. While care homes are a common option, live-in care offers a compassionate alternative that allows people to remain in the comfort of their own home.

Surrounded by familiar belongings, routines and even pets, individuals benefit from a sense of continuity and security that can be especially reassuring for those living with dementia or long-term health conditions.

At the heart of live-in care is tailored, one-to-one support. A dedicated carer not only assists with daily needs such as personal care, meals and medication but also provides companionship and encouragement.

This personalised approach means care is built around the individual’s lifestyle and preferences, helping to preserve independence, dignity and emotional wellbeing. Families also gain peace of mind, relieved of the daily strain of caregiving and able to focus instead on quality time and meaningful moments with their loved one.

Live-in care is often a practical choice as well as a personal one. Research from the Live-In Care Hub shows people receiving care at home are healthier, happier and even financially better off than those in residential care.

Risks such as falls or hospital admissions are reduced, and care plans can adapt flexibly as needs change. For many families, it is a solution that combines comfort, connection and security, while ensuring loved ones can continue to live life in the place they know best – home.

For more information about how Guardian Angel Carers can help, visit www.gacarers.co.uk/lincoln-newark

INDEPENDENT COFFEE, LOCAL HEART
Over the past six years, the Bett family has built a small but much-loved collection of independent coffee shops across Lincolnshire and Nottinghamshire. Each has its own personality, but all share the same hallmark values – good coffee, good food and genuine warmth.

At The Boat House in Thorpe on the Hill, visitors can unwind beside the lake while enjoying breakfast, lunch or a homemade scone. It’s a peaceful retreat where friendly service and a relaxed atmosphere make every visit feel like a little escape. Their newest venture, The Allotment in Collingham – run by their son Byron – takes the family’s café style into exciting new territory. With its newly granted alcohol licence, The Allotment now offers cocktails and drinks on weekend evenings, blending café charm and a sociable, contemporary feel. The Bett family’s other favourites, The Coffee Chain in Newark and Torksey Lock Coffee House on the Fossdyke, complete the picture – each one run with pride, care and community spirit. For the Betts, being independent isn’t just about business; it’s about creating places where everyone feels at home.

For more information follow us on Facebook or call 07876 680304.

QUALITY, AFFORDABLE ACCOMMODATION NEEDED
City of Lincoln Council (Housing Solutions) is looking for good quality, affordable accommodation for waiting families and individuals both in the city and close to its boundaries. 

With the new legislation in the Renters’ Rights Bill pending and due to become law in early 2026, the council is also offering full support to guide landlords through the new procedures.

The Bill is designed to deliver reforms to the Private Rented Sector (PRS) and its primary goal is to give tenants more security and more freedom to leave substandard properties.

Since 2014, the council has been operating the Private Landlord Scheme with the aim to work with landlords and tenants to raise property standards and provide long-term, affordable accommodation. 

Free to landlords, the scheme offers everything expected from a professional service. For each prospective tenant the council completes or obtains reference checks from previous landlords, affordability checks including proof of income, benefit entitlement, anti-social behaviour and existing rent arrears checks, and confirmation of immigration status.

For advice and information, email: joanna.gray@lincoln.gov.uk or caroline.sanford-casey@lincoln.gov.uk

CELEBRATE THE SEASON AT WASHINGBOROUGH HALL
At the heart of the charming village of Washingborough, just two miles from Lincoln’s historic centre, Washingborough Hall is a Grade II listed Georgian manor house, brought to life with twinkling lights, rich greenery and a warm, welcoming glow throughout the festive season.

The four-star hotel holds two AA rosettes, serving modern European cuisine rooted in seasonal, local produce. With a long-standing reputation for excellence in dining and service, it is the perfect setting for festive escapes, intimate gatherings, or life’s most memorable celebrations, from weddings to private dining celebrations.

From 21st November, guests can enjoy a spectacular programme of seasonal experiences at Washingborough Hall, from festive lunches and dinners to indulgent afternoon teas, and not forgetting the Festive Silent Disco & Dinner evening on 19th December.

Christmas Eve, Boxing Day and New Year’s Day lunches promise elegant dining, while Festive Sundays on 7th, 14th and 21st December offer a changing weekly set menu, showcasing traditional roasts, fish dishes, and seasonal vegetarian delights – each finished with signature Washingborough flair.

Discover the timeless magic of Washingborough Hall this season, where every detail is designed to add a touch of festive Washingborough sparkle.

Contact the team to discuss your requirements. Bookings can be made with the reception team on 01522 790340 or by email: enquiries@washingboroughhall.com. For more information visit www.washingboroughhall.com

Photographs: Mick Fox

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