Historical & Cultural
Discover Lincolnshire’s rich past and vibrant heritage with this handpicked guide to the county’s most fascinating historical and cultural experiences.
LINCOLN CASTLE
Built by William the Conqueror in 1068, Lincoln Castle has dominated the Lincoln skyline for almost one thousand years.
Following the Battle of Hastings in 1066, William the Conqueror ordered the construction of a castle at Lincoln in a bid to control the rebellious north.
Centuries earlier, the Romans had built their legionary fortress in the same place. The Normans constructed their motte and bailey castle here, re-using the remaining stone walls of the original Roman city.
Lincoln Castle has stood for hundreds of years as a symbol of power and seat of justice. Visit today and you can scale the heights of the Medieval Wall Walk, follow in the footsteps of prisoners in the Victorian Prison, and immerse yourself in the Magna Carta story.
Opening Times
Lincoln Castle is open 7 days a week.
Distance: 8.8 miles
LINCOLN CATHEDRAL
Lincoln Cathedral is one of the most spectacular Gothic buildings that held the record for the world’s tallest building for over two centuries. Enjoy exploring the magnificent exterior and interiors, colourful stained glass windows and discovering the famous Lincoln Imp. With free entry for children, Lincoln Students, and dogs, Lincoln Cathedral is the perfect place to visit with your entire family while discovering over 1000 years of history and culture.
Opening Times
The Cathedral is open daily from Morning Prayer until the end of Evensong or Evening Prayer.
Monday – Saturday
Visitor hours: 10:00 – 16:00
Sunday
Visitor hours: 11:00 – 15:30 with restricted access.
From time to time, Lincoln Cathedral will have restricted access to certain areas. This can be due to a number of reasons including services, events or maintenance.
Distance: 10.1 miles
LINCOLN MUSEUM & USHER GALLERY
Located next to the Lincoln Museum in the city’s Cultural Quarter, The Usher Gallery is one of the region’s premier art galleries.
Almost 100 years old, the Usher Gallery was bequeathed to the city by James Ward Usher, a jeweller from Lincoln.
James Usher had a passion for collecting, and built up a collection of ceramics, enamels, clocks, coins, silver and miniatures throughout his life. When he died, he bequeathed everything to the city, along with a considerable amount of money for a gallery to be built in order to house his collection.
The Usher Gallery opened in 1927, displaying James Usher’s extensive collection, alongside artwork from esteemed artists. The gallery’s art collection has continued to grow over the years, and you can now view work by celebrated artists including Turner, Constable, Lowry and Grayson Perry.
Opening Times
Usher Gallery: Thursday – Monday 10am – 4pm
Lincoln Museum: Currently closed for refurbishment
Muse Coffee Bar: Thursday – Monday 11am – 3pm
Distance: 8.7 miles
INTERNATIONAL BOMBER COMMAND CENTRE
The International Bomber Command Centre (IBCC) is a world-class facility to serve as a point for recognition, remembrance and reconciliation for Bomber Command. Providing the most comprehensive record of the Command in the world, the IBCC ensures that generations to come can learn of their vital role in protecting the freedom we enjoy today.
Everyone who visits the IBCC has the opportunity to learn about the story of Bomber Command and to remember the lives of those who fought to preserve the freedom we enjoy today.
This world-class facility serves as a place of recognition, remembrance and reconciliation for all, regardless of age, nationality or prior knowledge. It acknowledges the efforts, sacrifices and commitment of the 125,000 volunteer aircrew who flew with Bomber Command during World War II, and the more than one million men and women from 62 nations who supported them on the ground.
Opening Times
Tuesday – Sunday
9:30 – 17:00 (16:00 November – February)
Distance: 10.4 miles
