Dating back to the 16th century, and one of the city’s most photographed buildings, Lincoln’s ‘Crooked House’ could soon be welcoming guests again, thanks to a £350,000 refurbishment.
The timber-framed property – one of the oldest council houses in England – has fallen into a state of disrepair after standing empty.
But new funding means work has now begun to breathe new life into the building, which is famed for its distinctive lean, earning the nickname of the ‘Crooked’ or ‘Wonky’ House.
City of Lincoln Council, in partnership with Heritage Lincolnshire, has revealed that the funding will enable the historic building to become new holiday accommodation.
Tucked away on a cobbled side street at the top of the city’s aptly named Steep Hill, with Lincoln Cathedral as the dramatic backdrop, the Grade II listed terraced property, at 40-42 Michaelgate, stands alongside a late 18th century house and shop.
Saved from demolition in the 1930s after it was discovered that there was a timbered building behind the brick façade, the house was renovated and returned to its original style by Lincoln City Council, effectively making it a council house.
For a while it was a self-catering accommodation run by the National Trust before it closed.
Refurbishment is expected to be completed in May this year, before it becomes a new holiday let in the heart of historic Lincoln, close to the city’s twin Norman gems – its Castle and Cathedral.
Funding for the project has come from the Architectural Heritage Fund, Investors in Lincoln and City of Lincoln Council.
For more about visiting, and staying in, Lincolnshire, see www.visitlincolnshire.com