Steep Hill, Lincoln

Lincoln's Steep Hill, the fourth steepest in England, no less, is the ideal starting point if you're trying to capture the essence of British quaintness. It's best to start from the bottom.

When Lincoln was still known as Lindum Colonia and its occupants opted to move their colony down the hill, Steep Hill was initially used by locals. Excavations have revealed that the hill once had steps lining it.

As you make your way up the winding cobblestone path, you'll see a seemingly never-ending stream of tastefully decorated stores and magnificent brick and stone structures of historic value - the street's architecture dates back hundreds of years.

Don't pass up the opportunity to concentrate on the half-timbered Harlequin building, either. Here, an 18th-century inn has been converted into a stunning bookshop from the twenty-first century, and a 12th-century Norman house has been turned into a tearoom.

Today, the independent enterprises in Steep Hill are well known. These include retro shops, charming tea rooms, chocolate and fudge parlors, and more. The 16.12-degree gradient cobblestone street was named Britain's Great Street in 2012 by the Academy of Urbanism. The majestic Lincoln Cathedral and Lincoln Castle are located at the summit of Steep Hill, which extends from The Strait, another region rich in historical history. Although the Steep Hill Shuttle can make it simple for you to reach the top, Steep Hill is not suited for persons with accessibility needs.

Location: Lincoln, The Midlands