Steep Hill and Bailgate in Lincoln

Steep Hill and Bailgate are two of Lincoln’s most historic quarters, built on an old Roman fort and rich in ghost stories. Here’s what to know!

Steep Hill and Bailgate sit on the site of an old Roman fort, making this one of Lincoln’s oldest continuously occupied quarters. Walking up Steep Hill today, past independent shops, tea rooms and historic townhouses, visitors are literally walking over layers of the city’s Roman, medieval and Victorian history.

The Bank with a Ghostly Past

One building on Steep Hill has a particularly well-known story attached to it: a former bank that traded from 1899 to 1979, within a beautiful historic building. Accounts describe a woman seen climbing the western side of the building — one of several ghostly tales associated with the quarter.

A Neighbourhood Worth Exploring

Beyond the history, Steep Hill and Bailgate today are home to independent boutiques, cafes and pubs, making the area as good for a relaxed afternoon browse as it is for history enthusiasts.

Visiting at Halloween

With its narrow cobbled streets and genuine ghost stories, Steep Hill takes on an extra atmosphere as the nights draw in — making October a particularly good time to visit.

FAQ

What is Steep Hill in Lincoln known for?

Steep Hill is one of Lincoln’s most historic streets, built on the site of a Roman fort and home to independent shops, tea rooms and several reputedly haunted buildings.

Is Steep Hill in Lincoln haunted?

Local accounts describe several ghost stories associated with buildings on Steep Hill, including a former bank said to be haunted by a woman seen climbing its western side.

What is there to do on Steep Hill and Bailgate?

Visitors can browse independent shops, cafes and tea rooms, and explore the area’s Roman and medieval history on foot.