Planning a university open day can feel overwhelming, but if you’re heading to University of Lincoln, you’re in for a great experience. Set in the heart of Lincoln, the campus blends modern facilities with a historic city backdrop, making it ideal for both academic exploration and a memorable weekend away.
This guide covers everything you need to know – from logistics and parking to where to eat, stay, and explore.
Getting There & Open Day Logistics
Booking & Arrival Times
Open days at the University of Lincoln require advance booking via their official website. Once registered, you’ll receive a schedule of talks, tours, and subject sessions.
Top tip:
Arrive 30-45 minutes early especially for popular courses like Business, Engineering, or Media. This gives you time to check in, grab a map, and settle before sessions begin.
Getting There
Planning your journey in advance will make your open day experience far smoother – whether you’re travelling by car, train, or coach. Lincoln is well connected from across the UK, with direct rail links and easy road access via the A46 and A15.
For detailed travel routes, transport options, and practical tips, visit our official how to get here guide.
- By train: Lincoln Central Station is just a 5-minute walk from campus.
- By car: Lincoln is easily accessible via the A46 and A15.
Campus Navigation
The campus is compact and centred around the scenic Brayford Waterfront. You’ll find clear signage and student ambassadors guiding visitors throughout the day.
Parking for Open Days
You’ll find plenty of convenient car parking options throughout Lincolnshire, from city centre car parks to spacious Park & Ride facilities.
Whether you’re looking for quick access to campus or a hassle‑free spot on the edge of town with regular shuttle buses, our car park guide lists key locations and helps you plan the best place to park for your open day.
Official Open Day Parking
The university usually provides designated parking areas with shuttle buses:
- Riseholme Campus (overflow parking)
- Lincolnshire Showground (event parking)
These are well signposted on open days and often included in your booking info.
City Centre & Backup Options
- Lucy Tower Street Car Park
- Brayford Street Car Park
Tip: These can fill up quickly – arrive early or consider park-and-ride options.
Where to Stay (Perfect for Early Starts)
If you’re travelling far, staying overnight makes the experience far more relaxed.
Close to Campus
- DoubleTree by Hilton Lincoln – Right on Brayford Waterfront, ideal location
- Holiday Inn Lincoln – Modern, comfortable, steps from campus
Budget & Boutique Options
- Ibis Lincoln – Affordable and reliable
- Cathedral Quarter guesthouse – Great for a quieter, historic stay
Lincoln offers a wide range of accommodation to suit every preference and budget. From modern hotels on the Brayford Waterfront to charming boutique guesthouses in the historic city centre, you’ll find the perfect base to enjoy your visit. View our entire list of places to stay in Lincoln.
Where to Eat Between Sessions
Open days can be busy, so knowing where to grab a quick bite is essential for keeping your energy up while exploring.
Along the Brayford Waterfront, there are several student-friendly options: Wagamama Lincoln offers fast, fresh, and reliable meals, while Ask Italian Lincoln is perfect for a slightly longer sit-down break.
For lighter refreshments, local cafés in the city such as Stokes High Bridge, 200 Degrees and The Rising Cafe provide coffee, snacks, and a cozy atmosphere. If you’re pressed for time, campus cafés are a lifesaver, serving sandwiches, pastries, and hot drinks that you can grab and go between talks and tours.
Grab-and-Go
Campus cafés also offer sandwiches, pastries, and hot drinks – ideal if you’re short on time between talks.
How to Plan Your Day
A little structure goes a long way.
Start with your subject talk - these fill up fast and are the most valuable part of the day.
Join a guided tour led by current students to get a real feel for:
- Accommodation
- Lecture halls
- Social spaces
Make the most of your visit to Lincoln by taking a leisurely walk around the scenic Brayford Waterfront, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere.
Pop into key facilities to see where you could be studying and get a real feel for campus life. Don’t miss the chance to chat with staff and current students - they’re a great source of insights, tips, and firsthand experiences that bring the visit to life.
Give yourself breathing room between sessions. You’ll want time to absorb information and ask questions.
What to Do After Your Open Day (Make a Weekend of It)
Turn your open day into a mini getaway and soak up the charm of one of England’s most historic cities. Lincoln is packed with iconic sights, quaint streets, and lively spots that are perfect for exploring after your campus visit.
Must-See Attractions
- Lincoln Cathedral – Marvel at one of the finest Gothic cathedrals in Europe, with stunning architecture and rich history.
- Lincoln Castle – Walk the medieval walls, explore the grounds, and and see Magna Carta, dating from 1215.
- Steep Hill and the Strait – Wander this famous cobbled street lined with independent shops, cozy cafés, and incredible views of the city.
Evening & Nightlife
After a full day of exploring, the city comes alive with pubs and bars, restaurants, and cinema options – perfect for relaxing and soaking up the local vibe.
Lincoln is a small, student-friendly city with a compact, well-lit centre, and many students report feeling safe in everyday life, especially around the Brayford Waterfront and campus areas. Lincoln offers a comfortable and manageable environment where most students can quickly feel at home.
Final Tips for a Smooth Open Day
- Book tickets and accommodation in advance to avoid disappointment.
- Wear comfortable shoes – you’ll be walking more than you expect.
- Bring a notebook or use your phone to jot down impressions and questions.
- Talk to current students – they provide the most honest insights about campus life.
The University of Lincoln has an excellent employment rate of around 95 – 96%. UoL Alumni are in employment or further study within 6 months, and around 26% of employed graduates work in Lincolnshire after graduation.
Visiting the University of Lincoln isn’t just about checking out courses.
It’s about getting a feel for the city you could soon call home – for your course duration, or for even longer. With a little planning, your open day can become the start of an exciting new chapter.
