Lincoln
Why we love Lincoln
A storyteller of history, Lincoln is a city with thousands of tales to tell — a place where Romans walked and Medieval battles took place. From the heights on Lincoln Cathedral and cobbled pathways to a Norman fortress and the Magna Carta at Lincoln Castle, there are plenty of ways to step back in time. But it’s not just a taste of heritage on offer. Tuck into fresh Lincolnshire produce, delve into eclectic treasures from antique shops and get a buzz for bustling waterside bars. Wherever the adventure takes you, you’ll find Lincoln bursting with culture.
Lincoln Steampunk Festival
See Lincoln’s streets and venues become awash with retro futuristic costuming, dance, literature, film and more. Against the backdrop of the impressive cathedral, historic castle and cobbled pathways, the city comes alive with science fiction mania. From the showstopper parade, ‘The Grand Promenade’, to burlesque dancing and talks, workshops and presentations, there’s a whole host of ways to get into this all-out festival.
Lincoln Cathedral
An unmissable feat of architecture, Lincoln’s Cathedral has been towering over the city and county for over 950 years. One of Europe’s finest Gothic cathedrals, discover the intricate work indoors on a floor tour, or climb the steep steps for a tower tour.
Lincoln Castle
A place where kings and convicts have roamed, discover William the Conqueror’s creation built in 1068 and walk the walls of this historic castle. Embark on a guided tour of the castle and grounds to unearth over 1000 years of history. Or choose to explore the lives and stories of Victorian convicts who resided within the castle walls when it was a prison. Don’t miss annual events, including the Luna Cinema and jousting.
Things to do in Lincoln
Featured things to do
Get out and about with a Lincoln Walking Tour
Let top guides lead you round Lincoln telling you of the stories and history of the cathedral city. Choose a tour that best suits you, from Roman tales to industry and innovation and more.
Explore the city with Lincoln Walking Tour
Head out on the water on the Brayford Belle
For a chance to see Lincoln from a unique perspective, glide across the water on a 50 to 60-minute guided cruise along the canal.
Travel on the Brayford Belle
Hear haunting stories on a Lincoln Ghost Walk
Are you brave enough for a spooky walk through the city? With supernatural tales of medieval ghosts to spine-tingling moments, unlock the hidden side of Lincoln.
Take a ghostly walk
Get cultural at Lincoln Museum
Explore the past from the Stone to the Iron Age, right through to the Vikings and Medieval eras, there’s a whole host of history to unearth.
Visit Lincoln MuseumPlaces to stay in Lincoln
Cathedral Quarter
It’s all about history here, find hotels, B&Bs and self-serviced apartments that call Lincoln Cathedral and Lincoln Castle their neighbour.
Brayford Waterfront
With plenty of eateries and bars, Lincoln’s waterfront is a vibrant hub. Choose to stay here and spend the night in your choice of well-known hotel chains.
Lincoln suburbs
With nature in abundance, discover the outskirts of the city. Stay in country park resorts, glamping pods or on a boat in Burton Waters.
Explore nearby
Getting to Lincoln
Located in the East Midlands of England, Lincoln is easily accessible from London, as well as being on the doorstep of the Midlands, Yorkshire, and the east coast. You can travel direct by train from London Kings Cross with London North Eastern Railway, with journey times averaging 1 hour 45 minutes. Humberside International Airport and East Midlands Airport serve Lincoln and connect the city to European destinations such as Amsterdam. Catch a ferry from Rotterdam to Hull to explore Lincolnshire.
Getting around Lincoln
By foot
Small but mighty, Lincoln is best explored on foot. Follow the cobbled paths of the Cathedral Quarter and head down Steep Hill to hit the shops in the vibrant Cornhill Quarter.
By bike
Explore Lincoln and Lincolnshire at your own pace on two wheels. Download maps and routes that follow the National Cycle Network and the Lincoln Cycle Network.
By bus
There are travel options to avoid the steep hills and cobbled streets in Lincoln. Choose the Walk and Ride for transport to the Cathedral Quarter. Use Tour Lincoln to see the city sights from March to October.
Want to know more?
Head to Visit Lincoln for insider tips from those in the know.