Our picturesque village is struggling – it’s a spectacular spot but we need more tourists
SHOPKEEPERS on a street renowned for its chocolate box charm have said that times are tough despite its fame.
Steep Hill in Lincoln has been voted the most picturesque spot in Lincolnshire.
The cobbled street, lined with classic tea rooms and independent shops, is in the shadow of Lincoln Cathedral. It’s the fourth steepest street in England.
But now one of Steep Hill’s traders has suggested that beneath the charming exterior, things could be better, reports Lincolnshire Live.
Andrew MacDonald, owner of The Pot Shop on Steep Hill, said: “We have noticed in the last six months we are getting the full picture of visitors back. It’s nice to see the tourism.
“It’s excellent news that it was voted the most picturesque spot.
“It’s a focal point of Lincoln.
“The footfall is really good but it’s still tough financially.”
Charlotte Bell, one of the owners of Ditto Design on Steep Hill said that trade was now bouncing back.
She said: “Steep Hill is one of the most beautiful parts of Lincoln and we try to keep everything Lincoln-based and a bit quirky.
“We have noticed in the last six months we are getting the full picture of visitors back. It’s nice to see the tourism.”
The village’s charm attracts visitors from across the country. Gwenda Roberts from Betws-y-Coed in Wales, said: “I think Steep Hill is lovely on a nice day. There are plenty of shops.”
Nan Davies said: “It’s very clean and tidy and people are very friendly. It’s only been six months since we were here last.”
Steep Hill topped a recent poll of beauty spots across Lincolnshire, coming ahead of Red Hill Nature Reserve and Mablethorpe beach.
Steep Hill, which dates back to Roman Times, has a 16.12º gradient and was voted Britain’s Great Street in 2012 by the Academy of Urbanism.