The best lanes for strolling are those tumbling down the appropriately named Steep Hill to the Witham River.
The cathedral is a good starting point for your shopping tour of Lincoln, as the streets leading down the hill (you won't be working against gravity this way) are lined with a mélange of interesting stores. Wander in and out of these historic lanes, down Steep Hill, along Bailgate, around the Stonebow gateway and Guildhall, and then down High Street. Following this route, you'll find all sorts of clothing, books, antiques, arts and crafts, and gift items.
While walking down Steep Hill, stop in the Harding House Gallery, 53 Steep Hill (tel. 01522/523537; www.hardinghousegallery.co.uk), to see some of the best local crafts: ceramics, teddy bears, textiles, wood, metal sculptures, and jewelry.
