High Bridge Glory Hole
Lincoln's High Bridge, the oldest in the UK with standing buildings, offers a medieval marvel and the unique 'Glory Hole' passage.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
High Bridge Glory Hole
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Lincoln's High Bridge, the oldest in the UK with standing buildings, offers a medieval marvel and the unique 'Glory Hole' passage.
"It's a shame this beautiful spot was ruined by political propaganda. Historic landmarks shouldn't be touched."
📸 Capture the Charm
The High Bridge, or 'Glory Hole,' offers unique photo ops. Visit during daylight for the best shots!
🛥️ Boat Trip Adventure
Explore the 'Glory Hole' from the water for a unique perspective, but be mindful of the tight passage.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The High Bridge
High Street, Lincoln
The oldest bridge in the UK with standing buildings, dating back to 1160. A true medieval marvel!
The 'Glory Hole' View
Underneath High Bridge
Experience the unique, narrow passage of the River Witham, a tight but memorable boat route.
Historic Architecture
High Bridge
Admire the 16th-century timber-framed buildings and carved angels adorning the bridge's corners.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Understand the 'Glory Hole'
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Capture the Charm
The High Bridge, or 'Glory Hole,' offers unique photo ops. Visit during daylight for the best shots!
🛥️ Boat Trip Adventure
Explore the 'Glory Hole' from the water for a unique perspective, but be mindful of the tight passage.
🚶♂️ Walk the High Street
Stroll across the bridge and soak in the historic atmosphere of Lincoln's High Street.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Capture the Charm
The High Bridge, or 'Glory Hole,' offers unique photo ops. Visit during daylight for the best shots!
🛥️ Boat Trip Adventure
Explore the 'Glory Hole' from the water for a unique perspective, but be mindful of the tight passage.
🚶♂️ Walk the High Street
Stroll across the bridge and soak in the historic atmosphere of Lincoln's High Street.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the High Bridge for its unique historical significance and picturesque charm, often calling it a highlight of Lincoln. The 'Glory Hole' aspect adds a memorable, albeit sometimes tight, experience. Some reviews mention disappointment with modern political messaging near the landmark, preferring to focus on its historical beauty.
"High Bridge dates back to 1160 it is the second oldest masonry bridge in england. The wooden building above it is from the 16th century, and there are carved angles on the corners. These types of bridges were common in the Middle Ages, and most were demolished due to obstructing river traffic. It is one of the highlights of lincoln and worth seeing."
Andrew Nell
"Lovely bridge whichever side you view it from."
Atlas and a Camera
"It's a shame this beautiful spot was ruined by political propaganda. Historic landmarks shouldn't be touched."
Ig Ig
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
High Bridge is centrally located on the High Street in Lincoln, easily accessible on foot from the city center. If arriving by car, look for city center parking. Public transport options like buses also serve the city center, bringing you close to the bridge. +1
Yes, Lincoln city center is well-served by buses, and High Bridge is a short walk from many bus stops. Train services also arrive at Lincoln Central station, which is within walking distance.
Several car parks are available in Lincoln city center, including those near the High Street. It's advisable to check local parking apps or websites for the most up-to-date information on availability and pricing.
Cycling is a great way to explore Lincoln. There are cycle paths leading into the city center, and you can usually find bike racks near the High Street for secure parking.
Walking across the bridge and exploring the surrounding High Street offers the best experience. For a unique view, consider a boat trip on the River Witham to pass through the 'Glory Hole.'
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, High Bridge is a public landmark and can be visited freely without any admission tickets. You can walk across it and admire its architecture at any time.
As an outdoor landmark, High Bridge is accessible 24/7. However, for the best experience and to see the buildings clearly, visiting during daylight hours is recommended.
The buildings on High Bridge are typically private residences or businesses and are not open to the public for tours. You can admire them from the outside as you walk across the bridge.
While there aren't specific 'tours' for High Bridge itself, guided walking tours of Lincoln often include this historic site. Check with local tour operators for availability.
Generally, there are no specific restrictions for visiting High Bridge. However, always be respectful of the area, especially if businesses are operating.
📸 📸 Photography
Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best light for photography, creating a warm glow on the historic buildings. Avoid midday sun for softer shadows.
Capture the unique architecture of the bridge, the timber-framed buildings, the 'Glory Hole' from different angles, and the surrounding river views.
Drone usage is subject to local regulations and may require permits. It's best to check with Lincoln City Council or relevant authorities before flying a drone in the area.
Yes, taking photos from a boat passing through the 'Glory Hole' offers a unique perspective. Ensure your camera is protected from water splashes.
Try capturing the narrow passage from both upstream and downstream for contrasting perspectives. Including a boat can add a sense of scale.
🎫 🛥️ River & Boat Experiences
Yes, boat trips are available on the River Witham, and many will take you through the 'Glory Hole' under High Bridge. It's a popular way to see this unique feature.
The 'Glory Hole' is known for being a tight squeeze for boats, especially larger ones. Experienced boaters and tour operators are familiar with navigating it.
Boat rentals are often available around Brayford Pool in Lincoln, which is near the High Bridge. Check with local marinas or hire companies for options.
The River Witham has been a vital waterway for centuries. The High Bridge was built to allow passage over it, and the 'Glory Hole' is a testament to the engineering challenges of the time.
Boaters should proceed with caution, be aware of their vessel's width, and ideally have someone guiding them if unfamiliar with the passage.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1Consider a boat trip that goes through the 'Glory Hole' for an extra dose of excitement. Just be sure to keep a close eye on little ones near the water's edge. The surrounding High Street also offers plenty of shops and cafes for a family break.
📸 Photographers
Experiment with different angles: from the riverbanks, from the bridge itself, and especially from a boat passing through the 'Glory Hole' for dramatic shots. The reflections in the River Witham can also add a beautiful dimension to your photos.
🛥️ Boaters & Water Enthusiasts
Ensure you're aware of your boat's dimensions and proceed with caution. Many local boat hire companies operate in the area and can provide vessels suitable for this passage, offering a thrilling way to see this historic landmark up close.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Enduring Legacy of High Bridge
+1 It's celebrated as the oldest bridge in the United Kingdom still featuring buildings constructed upon it. The most prominent of these are the 16th-century timber-framed structures that give the bridge its distinctive, almost house-like appearance. These buildings, along with carved angels on the corners, speak to a rich architectural history that has endured for centuries. Historically, bridges with buildings were common in the Middle Ages, serving as bustling hubs for commerce and habitation. However, many were later demolished due to their obstruction of river traffic. The survival of the High Bridge is therefore a significant testament to its importance and the city's efforts to preserve its heritage. It's a living piece of history, offering a unique glimpse into medieval urban planning and life.
Today, the High Bridge is a beloved landmark, often referred to affectionately as the 'Glory Hole' due to the narrow passage it creates for the River Witham. This nickname highlights its unique character and the charm it brings to the city of Lincoln. Visitors are drawn to its picturesque views and the stories embedded within its ancient stones.
Navigating the 'Glory Hole'
For those exploring Lincoln by water, navigating the 'Glory Hole' is often a highlight. Boat tours frequently include this passage, offering a different perspective of the historic bridge and its architecture. However, it's crucial for boaters to be aware of the confined space. The narrowness requires careful maneuvering, especially for larger vessels, and it's advisable for those unfamiliar with the passage to proceed with caution or seek guidance.
The 'Glory Hole' is more than just a waterway; it's a symbol of the bridge's enduring functionality and its adaptation over time. It adds a layer of intrigue and adventure to the High Bridge, making it a memorable stop for both land-based and water-based explorers.
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