The joy of research

When my wife asked me where I thought we should go for our anniversary trip this year, I immediately suggested the city of Lincoln. No more than a 3 hour journey, so not too strenuous on my back and crammed with history, it was an easy choice for me. The fact that Lincoln or Lindum as it was known then, features in the Roman military series I'm currently writing was just a happy coincidence. Well, that's my story and I'm sticking to it.

For once the weather smiled on us for the long weekend and we were able to visit everywhere we wanted (apart from Lincoln Museum which is still closed due to refurbishment - shame really, because most of the Roman artefacts are kept there). The castle was absolutely fantastic and a leisurely walk around its walls was a real pleasure, taking in the sights of the castle, the Victorian prison, the courthouse and the magnificent cathedral. Made me laugh, however, when I joined a gaggle of people stopped on the wall in one particular spot. They weren't staring at any of the aforementioned buildings but were instead absolutely enraptured by the sight of a small robotic lawnmower ponderously cutting the lawn of a magnificent house which is adjacent to the castle - all that history and 21st century technology was temporarily more appealing!

Joking aside the castle and its grounds were superb as was the Victorian prison and a short walk further on we found the Museum of Lincolnshire Life, which was equally fascinating. As well as being a fan of all things Roman, those who know me will also be aware that I am fascinated by anything and everything to do with the First World War, so to find that the first tanks were designed and built in the city and an authentic WW1 tank was on display there was a real bonus.

Got to see several pieces of Roman architecture and enjoyed a chat with one of the castle's curators who was very knowledgeable about local Roman discoveries.

All in all it was a great visit and whilst I didn't necessarily learn anything new about the Romans, it was good to visit the area and get a feel for the landscape.