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umble-but-happening Lincoln is home to one of England’s most unique historic quarters. The Romans knew it as Lindum Colonia. In their time, the city was one of four regional capitals in Britain. Drive to the city today and you could find yourself driving under what is reputedly the UK’s oldest Roman arch still open to traffic. You’ll also find a thriving university town with a sense of history that radiates from the very pavement beneath your feet.

Must See & Do

Quite rightly, Lincoln’s historic architecture seems like the mandatory first port of call of any trip to the city. To reach them, take a not-so-light stroll up aptly-named Steep Hill. Bear with it! The 15-minute walk is a chance to absorb the true age of the ancient city, and will take you to the Cathedral Quarter, a passage flanked by Lincoln’s famous castle and cathedral. 

For those tempted by more leisurely sightseeing, take in the city highlights with Tour Lincoln’s open-top bus tours – you can board as many times as you like from the tour’s 12 different stops.

History & Heritage

The three soaring spires of Lincoln Cathedral loom over the city, showcasing Lincoln’s finest example of Norman workmanship. Completed in 1092, the central spire was then the tallest man-made building in the world, closely followed by Egypt’s Pyramids. Only instead of a mummified pharaoh inside, look out for the cheeky Lincoln Imp…

Only a few steps away is Lincoln Castle , an intact medieval structure that now houses an archive of historical artefacts including one of only four remaining copies of the Magna Carta. Hiding in the shadow of the cathedral (literally), Bishop’s Palace was once home to the largest diocese in England, an administrative centre and residence that has seen the dramas of English history’s biggest characters, including Henry VIII. 

Arts & Culture 

The Collection and the Usher Gallery offer an appealing mix of antique artefacts and fine art, including portraits of Lincolnshire-born writer Lord Alfred Tennyson.  For live music, plays and other on-stage action stop by the Lincoln Theatre Royal or the Drill Hall to find an agenda of the season’s shows and performances. 

Fancy something a touch more quirky? Keep your eyes peeled for the Bizarre Bazaar Market , a monthly gathering of hoarders, antique collectors and local producers selling vintage wares on the Upper High Street. 

Family Fun

Join one of Lincoln’s History Walks , which include a ghost tour with spooky stories to give you night frights. For a flashback to the “good old days”, take the kids on a tour of Mrs Smith’s Cottage Museum , where an old-fashioned lifestyle without modern innovation was preserved through all Mrs Smith’s 102 years. If that’s not enough education for one day, visit The Collection’s Play activity centre. 

Food & Drink

Sniff out Lincoln’s friendly and inventive foodie experiences tucked away in the city’s nooks and crannies. For a menu made of mostly locally-sourced ingredients and produce, pop by The Cheese Society for a scrummy breakfast or lunch. In the evening, try the Jew’s House Restaurant for experimental cuisine in one of the city’s most historic settings. Don’t be fooled by the name - Browns Pie Shop serves up hearty meat and seafood dishes with a nod to classic British culinary style, not all of which comes with a pastry crust. Need to let your hair down a little? Step into the sleek surroundings of HOME nightclub to party with Lincoln’s night owls. You can eat there too.

Key Events

Kick off summer with the Lincolnshire Show , a yearly feast of livestock and produce competitions, as well as craft exhibitions and live music. Another contender on Lincoln’s strong events calendar is the annual Christmas Market , the biggest and longest-running German-style market in England. It goes without saying that you find traditional German glühwein to sample, and take a spin on the fairy-lit big wheel.