Exploring Lincoln
We have set out below some of the ways you can explore Lincoln and the sights.
Guides and Tours
Discover Historic Lincoln through the Lincoln Free Walking Tour. They run a number of tours showcasing different aspects of Lincoln and it's history.
Pop into the Visitor Information Centre on Castle Hill between the Castle and the Cathedral for guidance, and/or check out the VisitLincoln website for ideas. Lincoln Guided Walking Tours (not to be confused with the Free Walking Tour listed above) start from the Visitor Information Centre and operate daily in June to September and at weekends in October.
If you want to explore Lincoln by bus, there is the Lincoln Sightseeing Tour Bus which provides a hop-on, hop-off service enabling you to explore Lincoln with live commentary from experienced guides.
We have recently found a number of guests exploring Lincoln with the Lincoln Mystery Guide - trying to solve The Mystery of King John's Lost Crown.
If you want to be taken round parts of Lincoln (around the Cathedral and Bailgate) by horse and carriage then historical tours are available on weekends and holidays starting from outside Lincoln Cathedral.
Lincoln Cathedral
Lincoln Cathedral is one of the great cathedrals of the world and was the world's tallest building from 1311 to 1548 when a storm sent it's spire crashing down. Had the spire remained, it wouldn't be until the late 19th century that there would be a taller building.
The Cathedral provides various tours throughout the year. These can be seen through the following link and include the Floor Tour, the Roof Tour, the Stained Glass Tour, Secrets of Minster Yard, the Tower Tour, the Historic Graffiti Tour and Summer Special Tours. They advise pre-booking.
Lincoln Castle
Lincoln Castle was originally built in 1068 by William the Conqueror using the stones from the wall of the old Roman city that had stood there. There is lots to see and do - see Lincoln Castle website
There is the Medieval Wall Walk with stunning views across the city.
The Castle houses an original Magna Carta of 1215 and the 1217 Charter of the Forest which can be seen in the specially designed Magna Carta Vault.
You can visit the Victorian Prison - where men, women and children as young as 8 were held from 1848 to 1878 for crimes ranging from stealing to murder.
Events are regularly held at the Castle.
Lincoln Crown Courts still operate on the grounds.
Shopping and other attractions
Shopping in Lincoln. If you want to go shopping then follow the link.