Things to do in Lincoln

Lincoln Cathedral and Lincoln Castle are without a doubt the city’s two main attractions. For any guests who are new to the city, they’re the first places to check out. Our guide explores their nearly 1,000-year histories, as well as the city’s other top attractions, including nature parks and a wonderful Elizabethan mansion.

The shopping in Lincoln is some of the best around. Our guide shows you that between the boutiques of Bailgate, the vintage shops of Steep Hill and The Strait, the High Street shopping centres and the city markets, you’ll surely find everything you’re looking for - as well as lots more that you never knew you wanted.

Once the tallest building in the world, the stunning Lincoln Cathedral stands proudly as one of the city’s best-loved attractions. Boasting beautiful Gothic architecture, regular tours and one of the only surviving copies of the Magna Carta in the world, there’s plenty here to keep all visitors interested.

To give you an idea of how much is on offer in Lincoln, one day you can be playing paintball and the next, you can be petting ponies at one of the UK’s largest horse charities. And if the weather takes a turn for the worse, you won’t be left short, thanks to the UK’s first ever virtual reality venue and the city’s state-of-the-art cinema.

Quench your thirst in one of the city’s many charming drinking establishments. When it comes to pubs, there really is something in Lincoln to suit everyone, from traditional watering holes to lively gig venues, craft beer hotspots and brewery pubs. Read our guide to discover the ideal spot for you to knock back a pint or two.

Between the Lincoln Drill Hall, New Theatre Royal and the city’s many other excellent venues, Lincoln’s theatre scene is alive and thriving. Read our guide to discover the best places to catch a show during your stay, whether you are wanting to enjoy a classic comedy, engrossing dramas or contemporary dance showcases.

With venues like The Engine Shed, the Lincoln Drill Hall and the New Theatre Royal, Lincoln’s entertainment scene attracts big bands, classical theatre and stand-up superstars, as well as the talented acts of tomorrow for you to check out during your stay.

The history of Lincoln can be traced back to the Stone Age. Over the years, the city has transformed through the influence of William the Conqueror and, more recently, the invention of the tank. Discover it all by visiting Lincoln’s collection of great museums.

As its name suggests, the Museum of Lincolnshire Life celebrates the county, its people and the things that make it so unique. Housing over a quarter of a million artefacts, including the authentic WWI tank known as ‘Daphne’, step back in time to 1750 and enjoy one of the best days out in Lincoln.

With more than 300 restaurants to choose from in the city, it isn’t easy picking where to eat. That’s why we’ve restricted our choice to only the cream of the crop. This includes tapas bars, trattorias, curry houses, Michelin-guide restaurants and more. Read our guide to tantalise your taste buds during your visit.

Good pubs for sipping pints, next-generation gaming bars, a secret speakeasy with a hidden entrance, underground clubs and Ministry of Sound DJs – as you’ll see from our guide, Lincoln’s nightlife scene has something for everyone, so make sure you pack your dancing shoes and get ready to paint the town red.

Once you’re in Lincoln, many of the city’s main attractions are close by, so getting around is easy. Nevertheless, it’s still worth taking a look at our guide to the city’s train and bus routes, as well as everything you need to know about getting a transfer from Humberside Airport or Doncaster Sheffield Airport.