Historic city with a modern outlook

Lincoln has come a long way over the past 20 years and today it can rightfully claim to offer something for everyone.

The city is a magnet for lovers of retail therapy and is seen as a safe place for students keen to study for a degree. It offers opportunities for people wanting to work for manufacturing and service businesses, as well as within farming, nursing or teaching.

Lincoln is also home to an increasing number of high-tech enterprises, and regularly plays host to a wealth of events.

In recent years, the city has also attracted a variety of leisure and entertainment providers, which have created different job opportunities and made Lincoln attractive to more leisure-seekers.

Tourism is another important sector. Attractions include the city’s “jewel-in-the-crown”, Lincoln Cathedral, alongside the castle, the Museum of Lincolnshire Life, Lincoln Museum (for art and archaeology), Harding House Gallery on Steep Hill, The Little Red Gallery in the Bailgate, The Indigo Crow Gallery on Burton Road and the Usher Art Gallery on Lindum Road.

Work continues to progress on the Greyfriars site between Free School Lane and Broadgate. Repairs have been carried out to the Medieval Undercroft, the Victorian extension is finished and there are now also steps leading into the Free School Lane Library.

Work has been supported by the National Lottery, funding roofing and creating an extension. Greyfriars is recognised as one of the city’s most important heritage assets, with its remarkable medieval architecture forming a key part of its national significance.

Once everything is complete, the project will bring the building back into use as a revitalised heritage and community space, hosting events, exhibitions, educational programmes and wider public activity.

The aim is to create an accessible and welcoming environment that allows more people to experience the building’s history and contribute to its future.

However, it is Lincoln’s Cornhill Quarter which will truly surprise people who haven’t visited the city for several years.
This vibrant area has benefitted from more than £70 million pounds’ worth of investment in a regeneration project led by Lincolnshire Co-operative.

This has seen the creation of smart new shop units, including many which are now occupied by leading clothing brands, a Cosy Club restaurant and the development of the city’s Everyman Cinema.

The Cornhill Market – now known as the Central Market – has been given a £8.7m revamp by the Lindum Group. The Market’s transformation has combined traditional market stalls with new food, leisure and technology areas.

Following the renovation of Cornhill Square and the creation of Exchange Square, efforts continue to be focused on boosting public space with the aim of allowing events to be staged and markets and outdoor dining to be enjoyed.

Changes in this part of the city have been complemented by the addition of the new Central Car Park and Lincoln’s Transport Hub (comprising the nearby bus station and St Mary’s Street railway station).

The newest tenants to have snapped up space in the Cornhill Quarter are Oliver Bonas, Design 44 and the recently-opened Cornish Bakery.

But there are more exciting developments on the horizon. Lincolnshire Co-operative is working to bring forward a hotel scheme on the site of its former City Square Centre and it is also looking at housing for the rest of the site and is currently in the early stages of gauging interest with partners.

THREE SHARE LIMELIGHT IN CIVIC AWARD CEREMONY
This year’s winner of the prestigious Lincoln Civic Award is Lincoln Wellington Athletic Club, with Highly Commended certificates also presented to The Royal Anglian Regiment – ‘The Poachers’ and the founder of Bracebridge Boxing Club, Denny Oliver.

The nomination for Lincoln Wellington Athletic Club was made by former ‘Welly’ member Chris Illsley BEM, whose Lincoln company Running Imp won the Civic Award in 2013.

Lincoln Wellington AC was formed on 20th September 1911 at a meeting held in the upper room at the Duke of Wellington in Broadgate, Lincoln, which is how the name Wellington came about.

Based at the athletics track at Yarborough Leisure Centre, the club is one of the largest in the East Midlands and its members compete enthusiastically at events all around the country, with membership of the club aged eight and over from all groups in the community. The club is one of only two volunteer-led clubs left in England.

Managed by a committee of elected officers, each of whom has a specific responsibility, in 2025 it was named East Midlands Club of the Year at the Regional Volunteer Awards, recognising its legacy, resilience and commitment to athlete development and community spirit.

Chris Illsley, who was a Wellington member in the 1980s, says he has “fond memories” of representing the club at the marathon and is “very proud” of his personal best time which he set at Wolverhampton in 1982, of 2hrs 38 mins, 22 secs.

“By its own definition, the Lincoln Civic Award is presented to an individual or organisation for an achievement which has, in the opinion of the trustees, brought credit to the City of Lincoln and after 115 years of service, Lincoln Wellington Athletic Club epitomises this.

“It’s for this reason why the Lincoln Wellington Athletic Club should join the list of luminaries and be the deserved recipient of the 2026 Lincoln Civic Award.”

CHANGE OF OWNERSHIP OF SHOPPING MALL
Wykeland is ready to build on the success of a Lincoln shopping mall after becoming its sole owner. The leading property development and investment business is ready to drive forward the revitalised Waterside Shopping Centre.

Wykeland and Lincolnshire Co-operative formed a joint venture to acquire Waterside in June 2023 and have invested significantly to give it an exciting new lease of life.

After a successful period of working in partnership, Wykeland has now taken full ownership to continue to build on Waterside’s status as a key destination for visitors to Lincoln city centre.

For Wykeland, taking full ownership is a vote of confidence in Waterside and its attractiveness as a vibrant and fully-let retail and leisure centre in a thriving city.

Since acquiring Waterside together, Wykeland and Lincolnshire Co-op have delivered a £3m programme of investment to revitalise the fully-let centre, as well as securing the long-term commitment of several major retail brands.

As sole owner, Wykeland Group is committed to continuing to enhance the centre’s appeal to both tenants and customers, and the experience enjoyed by visitors.

TOP CARE FOR HAPPY FEET
Whether you’re suffering from hard skin, corns, calluses, ingrowing toenails, or fungal foot infections, a visit to Matthew Franklin FHP at St Luke’s Foot Health Clinic in Birchwood is a must.

As an experienced foot health specialist, Matthew offers a first-class friendly and professional service aimed to help a variety of conditions, while also earning a five star reputation for taking care of diabetics’ ongoing footcare needs.

“I fell in love with foot health during my training at Heal’m training academy in Gainsborough, when I saw what a difference to people’s lives I can make by treating their feet,” says Matthew. “So many people told me that they felt like they were ‘walking on air’, so I decided to open my own practice in Birchwood!”

This immaculately clean healthcare clinic, which boasts the latest state-of-the-art equipment, also offers helpful advice on dealing with cracked skin and calluses, with a range of Urea footcare products on sale.

For more information contact Matthew Franklin. Tel: 07826 322064 or email: stlukesfoothealth@gmail.com

GARDEN JOBS FOR JULY
July is when the garden fully settles into its summer stride. Long, warm days bring colourful borders, constant bee activity and vegetable beds that promise steady harvests.

With growth slowing in the heat, regular watering, deadheading and light pruning help keep the garden looking fresh.

Many early-summer perennials finish their first flush now, allowing mid- and late-summer plants to shine.

Deadhead roses, penstemons, delphiniums, salvias and hardy geraniums to encourage renewed flowering. Cut back early performers like nepeta or geraniums to spark a smaller second display. Stake tall plants such as lupins, dahlias and hollyhocks to prevent wind damage, and fill gaps with fast-growing annuals like cosmos or zinnias.

A layer of mulch helps conserve moisture during hotter spells. Late-spring flowering shrubs, including philadelphus and weigela, can be pruned now while evergreens can be lightly trimmed if needed.

Contact Fullers Landscaping today to see how we can create your dream garden. Call 01522 868717, email: fullerslandscapinguk@gmail.com or visit www.fullers.garden

FOSTERING SUPPORT FOR A POSITIVE FUTURE
Skylark Fostering, the first Independent Fostering Agency to be founded in Lincolnshire, proudly offers local support to fostering families and those exploring the rewarding journey of fostering, while also ensuring every child under their care feels happy, safe and valued.

Founded by Tim Clayton and Trish Kelly, who share nearly 60 years of combined expertise and experience in children’s social work, Skylark is committed to creating a nurturing environment that enables children and young people to thrive.

“Our innovative support programme developed in partnership with local businesses and educational institutions, is designed to open career opportunities.

“We are especially dedicated to supporting young people as they prepare and transition to a successful adult life, and aim to support them in practical ways such as helping them obtain a driving licence.

“We are also committed to ensuring exceptional educational support is available, which in turn will allow the young person to build a clear career pathway.”

For more information visit www.skylarkfostering.co.uk

CREATING BEAUTIFUL, HEALTHY SMILES
If you’re looking for high quality dentistry to help enhance your natural smile, the friendly expert team at Lincoln Dental Care can help.

At Lincoln Dental Care we are privileged to have an outstanding dental team which we are very proud of.

Situated in North Hykeham, our excellent dentists are supported by a dedicated team of hygienists, nurses and receptionists who are all here to help you. All our team members are constantly striving to further their knowledge and skills to offer you the most up-to-date techniques and materials.

Our dentists and hygienists are registered with the General Dental Council (GDC) and adhere to the GDC Standards for Dental Professionals.

Using the latest dental technology and techniques, our dedicated dental team pride themselves on helping patients of all ages feel comfortable throughout their visit by offering exceptional care with every step of the treatment process explained in detail, ensuring that you feel informed and at ease throughout.

Treatment options
In addition to NHS dentistry, we also offer a range of affordable private treatments. Some of our dental team have undertaken extensive further training to enable them to offer these procedures.

These include teeth whitening, a successful and simple method of lightening the colour of your teeth, removing the staining agent that has penetrated deep within the tooth, and natural tooth coloured fillings which also help improve the look of your smile.

We also offer veneers which provide a wafer-thin covering to hide discolouration on teeth and close unsightly gaps, as well as dental implants which are a permanent, natural replacement for missing teeth or dentures.

If you’re looking to cover unsightly teeth or spaces, our advanced ceramic technology and bridges can help disguise the parts of your smile you’re less happy with, while our full range of denture options help achieve the most natural results.

For patients wishing to straighten their teeth, but who do not like the idea of traditional braces, we offer a variety of options to suit different needs.

Invisalign®, the innovative technology, straightens your teeth with a series of clear customised removable aligners. It is suitable for teenagers, adults, people with crooked teeth, with spaces between their teeth or people who have had braces before.

We also advise visiting our hygienist regularly as it’s important to monitor and maintain good oral health and anticipate problems which may arise.

We will professionally clean your teeth (scale and polish) and offer a programme of oral care which is appropriate to your needs and lifestyle. We also offer the latest air polishing treatment for more stubborn stain removal.

Skilled dental experts
Our clinicians stay at the forefront of modern dentistry, continually enhancing their skills to bring you the latest techniques and materials for lasting results. Whether you’re looking to refresh, restore, or completely transform your smile, we’ve got you covered with a full range of personalised treatments.

Contact us to find out how our outstanding team can help you achieve the smile of your dreams.

Book an appointment today, call 01522 682030. Lincoln Dental Care, 72 Newark Road, North Hykeham LN6 8RZ or visit 
www.lincolndentalcare.co.uk

SUMMER EVENTS AT HARDING HOUSE GALLERY
Harding House Gallery on Steep Hill have some exciting exhibitions lined up for this summer, including ‘Colourful Countryside’, a selection of unique glass art by Adele Billinghay (4th-19th July), followed by their summer exhibition, ‘Summer Breeze’ – a variety of work by invited artists and makers from 1st August until 5th September.

“Do call in and browse our exhibitions, see the co-operative members’ unique work downstairs and the lovely Grade II listed building that we have occupied for many years. There’s always a friendly artist at the desk to provide more information about the artworks, and answer queries.

“If you are a professional artist interested in joining our fantastic co-operative at Harding House Gallery, take a look at the information on our website.

“We are open every day Monday to Saturday, from 10am-5pm and Sunday, from 11am-4pm.”

For more information tel: 01522 523537, visit www.hardinghousegallery.co.uk or email info@hardinghousegallery.co.uk

YOUR LOCAL PRINTER IN LINCOLN
Lincoln Print & Copy Centre has been trading in Lincoln for more than 45 years in 2026, building business relationships with organisations large and small within many sectors – from tourism, entertainment and hospitality, through consultancy, engineering and construction, to education, agriculture and sports.

Working across such a varied range, they have experience, knowledge, and ideas that can help businesses with all their printing needs, from their working documents through to promotional material, making business life easier.

Based within walking distance of central Lincoln, and with customer parking on site, Lincoln Print & Copy Centre is accessible and approachable.

Why not email, or pick up the phone to talk through your requirements and ideas?

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

Call 01522 546118 or email sales@lincolncopycentre.co.uk

ENJOY A SMASHING TIME OUT!
If you’re looking to shake off irritations, blow off steam or vent your frustrations in a safe and secure environment, a visit to Smash Palace in Lincoln is a must!

Smash Palace rage rooms provide adult playtime with zero rules (except safety ones), where you can step into a safe, controlled

space and go wild on a heap of “smashables”.

Before taking part in a session, every guest is kitted out in full protective gear, given a clear safety briefing, and supervised while in the rage room.

“Armed with a range of tools, you’ll get the chance to obliterate everything from glassware to electronics in a space designed for maximum destruction and minimum risk.

“Each session is carefully designed to give you maximum fun, maximum mess, and maximum satisfaction – pick your package and let the chaos begin.

“Open to everyone from ages 12+, with 12-18 year olds to be accompanied by a competent adult. Perfect for birthdays, breakups and team building, you’ll leave grinning like a maniac!”

For more information visit www.smashpalace.co.uk

DISCOVER BESPOKE DENTURE OPTIONS
At the Denture Studio on Doddington Road, husband and wife team Gregory and Johanna Jones – who have more than 50 years’ experience in dental technology – have earned a much respected reputation for providing a caring and personable approach within a friendly, relaxed environment.

The team offers free consultations and advice to patients looking to discuss denture treatment options and explore quality handcrafted bespoke dentures, with the option of home visits, or appointments at care homes within Lincoln.

“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 from Monday to Friday, from 9.30am to 5pm.

For more information visit www.thedenturestudioltd.co.uk

LITTLE RED GALLERY WELCOMES ARTIST EMILY WARD
Emily Ward is a professional artist based in Tyne & Wear. She has achieved a BA(Hons) in Art and has taught art in her community for more than 25 years. Her philosophy is to create affordable, beautiful and unique art for everyone to enjoy.

When first introduced to Emily, The Little Red Gallery team, which is based in the Bailgate, fell in love not only with her artwork but with the woman herself.

They commissioned three Lincoln-based pieces from Emily, including the newest, a celebration of the Lincoln City Football Club, ‘Up The Imps!’ With prices starting from as little as £28, these pieces are accessible to everyone. 

“Emily works in a range of materials and mediums, from watercolours and pastels to acrylic and charcoal, on both paper and on canvas. This range is also found in the subjects that she paints.

“Her interpretations of real places are full of feeling and life, perfectly capturing the atmosphere of a place. Emily’s landscapes and florals are a riot of colour and are often expressions of joy and vitality.”

For more information visit www.thelittleredgallery.co.uk

MAKE AN ENTRANCE WITH A STYLISH COMPOSITE DOOR
Cliffside Windows has been helping to improve homes across Lincolnshire for over 50 years.

When it’s time to replace your front door, the options can seem endless.

As specialists in composite doors, the expert team at Cliffside Windows take the time to help you find your dream design, which perfectly suits your home.

“Your front door makes a lasting impression and says a lot about your home and can add to your home’s value and appeal.

“Composite doors have steadily established themselves as the best performing entrance door, and come in a wide range of colours and styles to suit any property, from traditional cottages to modern new builds.

“Choose from a multitude of different hues, including classic white, warming cream, bold red, elegant blue, rich green, sophisticated black, and natural wood effects like rosewood and light oak.

“Unlike traditional wooden doors or uPVC doors, composite doors are made from multiple materials. They typically feature a solid timber core, surrounded by insulation, and covered with a weather-resistant GRP (Glass Reinforced Plastic) outer skin. This combination creates a door that takes the best features from different materials.

“You can also personalise your composite door with a number of options including decorative glass panels, matching letter plates, handles and knockers, as well as side panels and top lights to create a more impressive entrance.”

Energy efficient
With high energy bills, the thermal performance of your doors is more important than ever. Composite doors offer excellent thermal performance compared to other types.

“The multi-layered construction of a composite door, with its insulated core, works to keep warm air in and cold air out. This means your hallway stays warmer in winter, making your home feel more comfortable and potentially reducing your heating costs.

“Unlike some older door types, composite doors won’t warp or develop gaps that let draughts in.

“Our doors feature a sturdy foam-filled core for superior insulation, wrapped in a moulded GRP skin that provides exceptional durability and weather resistance.”

Safe and secure
The solid core construction also makes composite doors inherently stronger than many alternatives.

“All our composite doors come with multi-point locking systems as standard, making it extremely difficult for would-be intruders to force open.

“The door frame is reinforced and designed to work together with the door itself to create a robust security system. Often, just the sight of a composite door is enough of a deterrent, with intruders choosing to target more vulnerable looking homes.”

Composite doors are also weather-resistant and easy to maintain with just an occasional wipe to keep it looking as good as new.

“Whatever home improvement product you choose to explore, our friendly and helpful on-site expert team are always happy to help guide you to make the perfect choice.

“You can visit our showroom or contact a member of our team for a free quote.”

To start the conversation about your new door, call 01526 320534, email enquiries@cliffsidewindows.co.uk or visit www.cliffsidewindows.co.uk

MAKE A DATE AT THE RAND FESTIVAL
The popular Rand Festival returns on Friday 7th – Sunday 9th August and promises to be bigger, louder, and more immersive than ever before.

Located at Rand Farm Park near Lincoln, the weekend brings together live music, family entertainment, and full farm park access to create a truly unique day-out-meets-festival experience.

Over the weekend, visitors can enjoy live tribute artists, interactive stage performances, including children’s raves and live game shows, character meet-and-greets and silent discos for all ages.

Created with families, friends, and multi-generational groups in mind, there is also a variety of street food, festival bars, and sweet treats, as well as inflatables, fairground games, and festival activities, plus full access to Rand Farm Park included in admission fees.

Here you can meet and interact with friendly farm animals, enjoy indoor soft play areas, explore outdoor adventure play, including climbing frames and activities and take part in hands-on farm experiences.

The Festival is open daily 11am–10pm. Advance booking highly recommended due to limited capacity.

For more information visit www.randfarmpark.com/events/rand-festival-uk

LINDUM HOMES LAUNCHES WEST THORNE GRANGE
Lindum Homes is delighted to announce the launch of West Thorne Grange, an exclusive new development of just 49 energy-efficient homes in the sought-after Lincolnshire village of Scothern, located just six miles from Lincoln city centre.

Thoughtfully designed for modern living, West Thorne Grange will offer a range of spacious three, four and five-bedroom detached homes along with semi-detached homes which include one, two and three-bedroom properties.

All homes will be built to Lindum Homes’ high standards and are designed to be net zero carbon-ready, helping homeowners embrace a more sustainable future without compromising on comfort or style.

Set within the charming village of Scothern, the development combines contemporary craftsmanship with the warmth and character of rural life. Residents will enjoy easy access to local amenities, excellent transport links and beautiful surrounding countryside, creating the perfect balance between village living and city convenience.

Scothern itself boasts a rich heritage, dating back to the Domesday Book of 1086. The village remains proud of its history, including its long-standing association with the famous saffron scone, commemorated through local traditions and the crocus emblem displayed on the church tower.

The West Thorne Grange sales office is scheduled to open in September, with the show home launching in autumn 2026.

For more information visit www.lindumhomes.co.uk

AN EXCITING SUMMER OF FUN AT BRANSBY HORSES
This summer, Bransby Horses invites families to slow down, step outside and immerse themselves in a holiday filled with fresh air, friendly faces and unforgettable moments. Set among rolling Lincolnshire countryside, the charity is bursting with seasonal delights designed to entertain curious minds and energetic little legs.

From imaginative activity trails to interactive family fun days, there is something new to discover around every corner. Children can learn through play, explore safely at their own pace and enjoy meaningful encounters with the much-loved horses, donkeys, ponies and mules who call Bransby Horses home.

When it’s time to refuel, visitors can also look forward to tempting, summer inspired desserts – the perfect treat after a day of exploring.

Whether you’re planning a relaxed day out or a summer holiday highlight, Bransby Horses promises wholesome fun with a big heart. Discover what’s on this summer by visiting the website or following Bransby Horses on social media.

https://bransbyhorses.co.uk/visit-us/

DISCOVER THE POWER OF THE UTILITY SPECIALISTS
Find out how the experienced team of independent energy brokers at The Utility Specialists can help businesses find the best deals and take control of their energy costs.

With more than 30 years’ experience in the energy market, The Utility Specialists is a trusted Lincoln-based company which specialises in offering advice on energy efficiency and recommended changes or upgrades that could help reduce consumption.

Acting as intermediaries, its independent brokers help find and secure the best energy deals by comparing rates and contracts from multiple energy suppliers.

Having secured nearly 20,000 energy supply contracts and with more than 1,000 clients to date, The Utility Specialists look after businesses in Lincolnshire, as well as all over the UK, from chemical factories in Scotland, to hotels and bars in London.

Local customers include Lincoln Cathedral, as well as manufacturing clients, charities such as AGE UK, residential care homes, sports clubs, countless office blocks and many of Lincolnshire’s farmers.

Andrew Long, owner of the White Hart Hotel in Lincoln, who is a long time client, says: “My various companies have worked closely with The Utility Specialists for many years and highly value their input on all utility matters. They adopt an efficient commercial approach, making it straightforward for fully informed decisions on new contracts, renewals and all associated matters to be quickly made.

“I would not hesitate to recommend The Utility Specialists to other property owners and occupiers.”

Getting the best deal
The Utility Specialists take pride in having access to exclusive rates and contracts that aren’t available to the general public.
By leveraging their relationships with top energy suppliers, the company can secure competitive pricing tailored to your business’ needs, helping to reduce energy costs over time.

“Our mission is to put you first. We work on your behalf to negotiate better terms and lower prices, saving you time and money,” explains managing director Peter Wright.

“We take the time to understand your needs and guide you through the options, so you know exactly what you’re getting. With a friendly, approachable style, we aim to make energy choices straightforward, helping you save money while staying informed.  

“We’re paid directly by the supplier that wins the contract, so there are no additional fees for you to pay to us. All commissions are detailed on contract paperwork so there are no hidden fees. 

“Our goal is to save you money, streamline your utilities, and give you peace of mind.

“Whether you’re looking for the best deals or expert advice, we’re here to help every step of the way. Trust us to deliver expertise with a personal touch.”

How it works
Are you on the most competitive rates for your business?

Have you looked at your contract renewal yet or would you like some help?

Would you like a chat about the wholesale market to help decide when is the best time to lock a new contract?

Have you done an appraisal on your supply capacity to ensure you’re paying the correct standing charges?

Talk to us, send us a copy of your bill, and arrange a no obligation coffee and chat.

The Utility Specialists, The Terrace, Grantham Street, Lincoln LN2 1BD. Tel: 01522 560122, email savings@theutilityspecialists.co.uk or visit www.theutilityspecialists.co.uk

Photographs: Mick Fox

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