A weekend in Lincoln

A hilltop cathedral city with a medieval castle

Independent UK guide
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Updated October 2026

Lincoln is a cathedral city on a hill, with a Gothic cathedral that was once the tallest building in the world, and a medieval castle that holds an original copy of the Magna Carta. Steep Hill, a cobbled lane, links the old uphill city with the lively downhill centre.

It is quieter and better value than many bigger cities.

Best forHistory lovers, Culture fans, Wet-weather days, Families

Best time to goSpring and autumn for walking the hill. Early December for the big Christmas market.

Typical budget (2 people, 2 nights)£320–£560, excluding travel

Getting thereNottingham: About 40 minutes by train.

Check prices for a weekend in Lincoln

Plan your weekend in Lincoln

Top attractions in Lincoln

Lincoln Cathedral

A striking Gothic cathedral on the hilltop, visible for miles.

Lincoln Castle

A Norman castle with walkable walls and the Magna Carta.

Steep Hill and Bailgate

A famous cobbled street lined with independent shops and cafes.

Brayford Pool

A marina lined with restaurants beside the university.

The Christmas Market

One of the biggest in the UK, held each December.

Best things to do in Lincoln

Guides to the activities most people plan a weekend around.

Canterbury Cathedral visit

Canterbury Cathedral is the mother church of the Anglican Communion and part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Allow 1.5 to 2 hours.

Durham Cathedral visit

Durham Cathedral is a masterpiece of Norman architecture beside the castle on a loop of the River Wear, together a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Allow 1 to 2 hours.

York city walls walk

York's medieval walls are among the best-preserved in England. Allow 1.5 to 2 hours.

Best areas to stay in Lincoln

Uphill, near the cathedral

The most atmospheric area, close to the castle.

Downhill, near Brayford

Waterside bars and restaurants.

Near the station

Practical and often better value.

Best hotels in Lincoln

Prices for a double room in Lincoln typically fall around £90–£150 a night in this price band. Guesthouses and B&Bs are usually the best value, while boutique hotels and inns with rooms suit a treat. Read recent guest reviews and use the filters on the booking sites for the things that matter to you.

Compare places to stay in Lincoln

Prices change daily, so check a few sites. These are affiliate links.

Best time to visit Lincoln

Spring and autumn for walking the hill. Early December for the big Christmas market.

Seasons that suit Lincoln well: spring, autumn, winter.

Estimated budget for a weekend in Lincoln

Hotel or B&B, per night for two	£90–£150
Food and drink, per day for two	£55–£85
Activities and extras for the weekend	£30–£90
Estimated total, 2 people, 2 nights, excluding travel	£320–£560

Mid-range destination. These are rough 2026 estimates and vary by season and room type. Add the cost of getting there. For a personalised figure, use the BritBreaks finder.

Getting to Lincoln

From Nottingham: About 40 minutes by train.
From London: About 2 hours by train, with a change.
From Sheffield: About 1 hour 15 minutes by train.

Journey times are rough guides. Check live train and road times before you travel.

A sample weekend in Lincoln

Friday evening: Arrive, settle in and have dinner in Uphill, near the cathedral.
Saturday: Start with Lincoln Cathedral, then Lincoln Castle. In the afternoon, head to Steep Hill and Bailgate.
Sunday: Visit Brayford Pool or The Christmas Market, then head home.