Lincoln Cathedral Quarter contains one of the greatest concentrations of independent retailers in the East Midlands and is home to an abundance of specialist retail, art, craft and gift shops and a range of elegant restaurants and bars. All these are clustered within a truly magical setting, some enjoy the benefits of the magnificent backdrop of Lincoln Castle or Lincoln Cathedral, others are a stone's throw away from Romain remains, and many are fronted by ancient cobbled street.

Lincoln Bailgate boasts a fantastix mix of art, craft and gift shops which are run by people who are passionate about what they offer. Traders based in Lincoln Cathedral Quarter, which stretches from Newport Arch on Bailgate to the foot of Lincoln's well trodden Steep Hill know a thing or too when it comes to offering shoppers what they want.

If you are looking for something different, or even unique, the Cathedral Quarter is alomost certainly where you will find it - whether you are looking for a taste of Lincolnshire's finest produce from Lincolnshire Plum Bread, Lincolnshire Sausages and Lincoln Blue Cheese to a one - off item of jewellery or a wonderful piece of antique furniture.

There are many independent shops offering something really different on the fasion front; think classic with a modern twist, designer and individualistic. There are also shops bursting with fabulous jewellery, gorgeous handbags and high quality shoes.

Bailgate and Steep Hill are really worth getting to know better. Where else would you find such a mix of public art, great range of shopping, historic monuments and exciting events.

Get your timing right and you can browse farmers' and artists' markets, singalong with local and visiting buskers or cheer-on the participants in the Santa fun run.

The highlight of the calendar for Bailgate and Steep Hill areas has to be Lincoln's world famous Christmas Market - but don't worry if you are not in the city at that time, there's always something happening.

The Farmers Markets are held at various places in the city, including Castle Hill. And, even after a glorious decade of success, they are increasing in popularity, as word gets round. Whilst on the subject of food, another crowdpuller is the popular Autumn Sausage festival, which attract people from miles around.

The summertime Artists' Markets, which take place on Steep Hill are another winner and popular with buyers and sellers alike. These also offer shoppers a fatasic opportunity to buy a unique, one off piece of art, which has been lovingly crafted in the Lincoln area.

So give Lincoln Cathedral Quarter a whirl, there is always something new to discover.