Lincoln is situated in a gap in the Lincoln Cliff (a major escarpment that runs north–south through Lindsey and Kesteven, in central Lincolnshire and rising to 200 feet (61 metres) in height).[37] The River Witham flows through this gap. Lincoln is thus divided informally into two zones, known locally as "Uphill" and "Downhill",[38] with Uphill at 72.8 metres (238.8 feet) above sea level in the area near Lincoln Cathedral, and Downhill at a height of 20.4 metres (66.9 feet) above sea level by the River Witham.[citation needed]
Uphill Lincoln
The uphill area comprises the northern part of the city, on top of the Lincoln Cliff (to the north of the gap). This area includes the historical quarter, including Lincoln Cathedral, Lincoln Castle and the Medieval Bishop's Palace, known locally as The Bail (although described in tourist promotional literature as the Cathedral Quarter).[38] It also includes residential suburbs to the north and north-east. The downhill area comprises the city centre (located in the gap) and the suburbs to the south and south-west. The aptly named Steep Hill is a narrow, pedestrian street connecting the two (too steep for vehicular traffic). It passes through an archway known as the Stonebow.[citation needed]
High Bridge 'Glory Hole'
This divide marks out Lincoln from many other historic cities in England and elsewhere in Europe.
The divide was also once an important class distinction, with Uphill more affluent and Downhill less so. This distinction dates from the time of the Norman conquest, when the religious and military elite occupied the hilltop.[38] The construction and expansion of suburbs in both parts of the city since the mid-19th century has diluted this distinction. Nevertheless, Uphill residential property continues to fetch a premium, and is almost invariably referred to as such by local estate agents.[citation needed]