Lincoln Christmas Market.

The Christmas Spirit has hit me, with a full, tinsel covered, carol singing, bauble breaking force. 

It decided to celebrate the start of the Christmas Season with a visit to my friend, and Lincoln Christmas Market. 

(The picture above is taken from Alasdair McIntosh Photography. Unfortunately I couldn't take any of my own photos, because I had actually skived off work early, and in my rush to get up north, I left my camera at home.) 

I had never visited Lincoln City before and I was excited to see it, especially the cathedral. 

We parked up at the local school and made our way through the Roman Gate, along side a semi-circle of beautiful houses, and to the back of the Cathedral.

Imposing is the first word that comes to mind with Lincoln Cathedral. As you enter, it completely takes your breath away. With ceilings that seem to reach the heavens, beautiful stone floors, and stunning stained windows, it is a fine example of a British Cathedral. 

There was gentle murmur of hundreds of people quietly looking around the huge building, queueing politely in and out of the exhibits inside. 

I could have stayed forever, exploring each historic corner, however, we had a market to explore. 

As we left the Cathedral, walking out of the main doors, we were met with a fantastic christmas scene. Christmas trees twinkled, stalls glowed with a gentle golden light, and behind us the sound of the cathedral choir filled the air. 

Following the crowds into the Castle Walls, we made our way around the stalls, stopping to try a little of everything and try on as many fluffy hats as possible. 

In my search for christmas gifts, I found a stall selling suede products and leather goods. And there, in front of me, were the most fantastic ear muffs. For about 5 years, every christmas, I have asked for ear muffs. But never have I received any (most likely because I am extremely fussy when it comes to accessories). But these were perfect! A beautiful tan suede, with a wool lining on the ears, I couldn't say no. I also couldn't quite say no to the matching mittens beside them. 

We carried on, snacking on Lincolnshire pies and mulled cider, listening to christmas music and people chattering away. 

Inside the castle, English Heritage hosted their own mini-medieval-market. With floors covered in hay, and stalls selling everything from hand made broaches, to mead, it was one of my favourite parts of the market. After trying a drop of everything, I stocked up on ginger wine, elderberry wine, and port style liqueur, made in Lyme Regis for English Heritage. 

Bustling our way back up the hill (it's bloody steep hill, made far harder with handfuls of bags and a body full of spirits), we made our way back Grantham, for a night of Christmas films and mulled wine.