One of Britain's best cultural cities
visitor guide to Lincoln
Visit Lincoln, the beautiful historic city full of heritage and culture - home to the magnificent Lincoln Cathedral, castle remains, ancient walls, and medieval architecture. It is no wonder that Lincoln is a popular location for a city break in the UK. Wander along the picturesque cobbled streets and take in the spectacular sights of Lincoln's magnificent historic architecture. The city is full of fun attractions and activities for the whole family to enjoy plus lots of delicious places to eat and drink.
getting here
Lincoln is easily accessible with three regional airports nearby, connections to the motorway and good links via rail being situated on the east coast railway line.
Travel from London to Lincoln by train in just 1 hour 55 minutes thanks to LNER Azuma trains.
Lincoln Cathedral
Historic Buildings
Lincoln Cathedral
Discover Lincoln Cathedral, one of the most spectacular Gothic buildings in the world. The cathedral is a spectacular and globally iconic landmark that has been standing tall over the city of Lincoln for centuries and was the tallest building in the world for over 200 years.
Lincoln Castle
Lincoln Castle is an incredible must see historic attraction, with special events, Magna Carta Vault, Victorian Prison and spectacular views across the entire city from the Medieval Wall Walk.
explore the historic city of Lincoln
Lincoln is a cathedral city with a rich and interesting history. During the Roman era Lincoln was known as 'Lindum Colonia' developed from an Iron Age Settlement on the River Witham.
The two most notable attractions are the spectacular 11th century Lincoln Cathedral and Lincoln Castle at the heart of the city's cultural Cathedral Quarter. The city has two universities, the University of Lincoln and Bishop Grosseteste and is home to Lincoln City FC. Lincoln is full of a diverse range of shopping and retail options from high street favourites to unique independents and boutiques.
The Lincoln Museum
Discover this award-winning museum in the heart of Lincoln City. Enjoy exploring the huge variety of historic and art exhibitions, interactive displays and regular talks and events throughout the year.
Doddington Hall & Gardens
Discover Doddington Hall, an Elizabethan manor house with Flemish tapestries and walled gardens displaying a pageant of colour all year round. A unique insight into 400 years of unbroken family ownership.
International Bomber Command Centre
Discover The International Bomber Command Centre, the only place in the world where the devastating losses of the Bomber Command unit during World War II are commemorated.
Magna Carta Vault at Lincoln Castle
Visit the internationally renowned Magna Carta at Lincoln Castle. View the original and iconic document signed by King John that changed the course of history.
ideas for things to do in and around Lincoln
Being a cultural city with a rich history there is of course a great deal of museums and heritage sites in Lincoln. However, you will also find vibrant venues with exciting events programmes, opportunities for getting active on one of the city's excellent cycle routes or perhaps the chance to unwind with some retail therapy if that is more your style. Lincoln has a wide variety of attractions and activities for you to explore. Find something to suit everyone's preferences.
shopping in Lincoln
For those fancying some retail therapy, Lincoln offers a great selection of shops. The city has a mixture of high street favourites and independent boutiques. Uphill Lincoln and the Bailgate is home to several antiques shops and the quaint cobbled streets are ideal for a leisurely afternoon window shopping.
STEEP HILL & BAILGATE
Lincoln's independent shops and boutiques in the Cathedral Quarter offer a unique shopping experience on Bailgate or along Steep Hill and the Strait. In close walking distance to all the cities main attractions, it is the perfect place to spend your day shopping.
Independent Boutiques & High Street Favourites
Find all of your favourite brands in the heart of Lincoln on the High Street, Cornhill Quarter, Waterside and St Marks area for a great retail experience.
what's on in Lincoln and surrounding area
Lincoln has a vibrant and varied programme of events running throughout the year. Keep up to date with the latest performances, shows, markets, exhibitions and more taking place in and around Lincoln.
Dog Friendly Days at Lincoln Castle
Spring Bulb Pageant at Doddington Hall
Jason and his Argonauts on Tour, Lincoln Museum
Spring Tasting Experience, Doddington Hall
Long Distance Open Water Swim Event
The Beatles by Candlelight at Lincoln Cathedral
Lincoln Festival of History: Victorian Zone
Truckfest at Lincolnshire Showground
Elton John by Candlelight at Lincoln Cathedral
Lincoln Festival Of History: Castle Zone
Lincoln Festival of History: Museum Zone
Hackthorn Art Group Art Exhibition
Classic Cars at Lincoln Castle
Here Be Dragons! Lincoln Castle Quest
Ocean Walker Warrior Lake Races – Open Water Swim
D-Day at 80 – Music, Dinner & Beacon Lighting
Crowded House Live at Lincoln Castle
Jess Glynne Live at Lincoln Castle
Paloma Faith Live at Lincoln Castle
Hamlet – The Lord Chamberlains Men
Kaiser Chiefs Live at Lincoln Castle
Madness Live at Lincoln Castle
Opera Evening at Doddington Hall
Libera in Concert at Lincoln Cathedral
Grand Medieval Joust at Lincoln Castle
Peter Pan, Outdoor Theatre at Lincoln Castle
The Asylum Steampunk Festival, Lincoln
Scouting For Girls – 2024 Tour
G4 Christmas Concert at Lincoln Cathedral
great local food & drink in Lincoln
Get a taste of Lincoln with its delicious selection of places to eat and drink. Lincoln has a great selection or restaurants and pubs. The city is also abundant with welcoming cafés and coffee shops with some very popular independents such as Stokes Tea & Coffee which was established 120 years ago by Robert William Stokes. You are guaranteed to find something to suit your tastebuds amongst Lincoln's numerous award winning eateries.
Katherine Swynford
Did you know...
Katherine Swynford’s story is known to many from the biographical novel Katherine by Anya Seton, her most famous work. From a very modest background she fell in love with John of Gaunt, son of Edward III. Despite many barriers they were eventually married in Lincoln Cathedral in 1396. Their daughter Joan was grandmother to Richard III and Edward IV, from whom descended the Tudor and Stuart dynasties and all subsequent British Royals.
Katherine also lived in the Lincolnshire village of Kettlethorpe and in later life within the Lincoln Cathedral Close. She died in 1403 and the tomb of Katherine Swynford and her daughter Joan Beaufort can be found on the south side of the Angel Choir in Lincoln Cathedral.
Lincoln
visitor information
Visit Lincoln Visitor Information Centre for all the information you need to know about Lincoln - where to visit, what’s on, transport enquires and more.
take tours & trails around Lincoln
places to stay in Lincoln
Plan your next city break in Lincoln with a great variety of self-catering accommodation, B&Bs and hotels. Choose your perfect home away from home in Lincoln.
planning your visit?
Visit Lincoln is the city’s dedicated tourism organisation where you'll find even more information about the best places to stay and visit in the area.
places to
stay & eat
A warm welcome awaits you. Find luxury hotel rooms and fine dining, unique B&Bs and wonderful local food, charming holiday cottages and more.
more local attractions
Find more inspiration about the city and countryside bursting with rich history, vibrant culture, architecture and creativity.