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Shopping in Lincolnshire: The Best Places to Go

22 September 2021

Shopping online may have become somewhat of a norm for many, but you can’t beat the joy of exploring stores, racks, shelves and displays in person. Especially not when you have as many delightful places to go as shopping in Lincolnshire provides.

Use our guide to discover the hidden High Street favourites, incredible independents and brilliant boutiques of our magnificent county…

Lincoln’s Cornhill Quarter

In 1879, the Grade II listed Corn Exchange was constructed. Over 140 years later, it sits at the heart of Lincoln’s Cornhill Quarter, the city’s most significant retail development. 

The £70 million city centre regeneration project blends the old with the new, preserving the historic heritage of the unique architecture and shop fronts while introducing a whole host of local and national brands to Lincoln.

The Cornhill Quarter is complete with big-name retailers such as Superdry, Pandora and Phase Eight, as well as fantastic local businesses like Burnett’s Sandwich Company and Imp Travel Agency. But it is so much more than a shopping centre; it’s a complete experience.

Visitors can enjoy everything from a film at Everyman Cinema and cocktail at The Botanist, to a sweet treat at Doughnotts and even a workout at Energie Fitness.

Lincoln High street
Lincoln High Street

Historic retail with a magnificent view

You’ve seen the new… but what about Lincolnshire’s famous heritage?

Sitting at the top of Steep Hill (England’s fourth-steepest street) is the Bailgate, home to the spectacular Cathedral quarter and Castle. A walk up Steep Hill includes cobblestone streets, traditional pubs, tasty restaurants and a wide range of local independent retailers.

We recommend starting with a drink in the Strait and Narrow before checking out Browns Pie Shop, Roly’s Fudge and the fashion boutiques before finishing up with a trip to the Farmers’ Market and a well-earned treat at Stokes or Ole Ole Tapas.

steep hill Lincoln
Steep Hill: voted Britain’s Best Street in 2012

Lincolnshire Market Towns

  • Louth – The Georgian market town of Louth features in our Lincolnshire Wolds guide for a number of reasons, one of which being its range of independent traders, quaint cafes and shops.
  • Caistor – Another one from our Lincolnshire Wolds guidebook is Caistor, where you’ll find some of Lincolnshire’s most wonderful shops and boutiques.
  • Stamford – Made up of 17th and 18th-century stone, timber-frame and medieval buildings, Stamford is a stunning place to go shopping.
  • Sleaford – The Sleaford market dates back to the early 12th century, and takes place in a beautiful setting by St Denys’ Church. If you’re looking to tuck into some of the county’s finest produce, we recommend visiting on the first Saturday of the month for the Lincolnshire Farmers’ Market.
  • Gainsborough – Marshall’s Yard, Gainsborough, has many of your popular favourites, including M&S, Holland and Barrett, Mountain Warehouse and Next.
  • Market Deeping – Declared one of the best urban places in England, Market Deeping is known for its superb selection of restaurants.
  • Market Rasen – Market Rasen High Street boasts over 50 independent shops and businesses. The town also has a golf course and race course!
  • Bourne – Like many of Lincolnshire’s quaint market towns, Bourne is lovely for those of you who prefer independent shops. It’s also famous for the purity of its water!
Marshall's Yard Gainsborough
Marshall’s Yard in Gainsborough

What else can I do in Lincolnshire?

Not a fan of shopping or already got everything you need? Don’t worry, you’ll never be stuck for things to do and places to see in Lincolnshire. Use our guides to plan your next trip:

If you live further afield but are looking to move to one of the many amazing destinations in our county, be sure to check out our new, high-quality homes.