2 days in Lincoln: a weekend itinerary
A great hilltop cathedral, a Norman castle and a steep cobbled street, in a city that rewards a slower pace.
- Independent UK guide
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- Updated October 2026
Lincoln is built on a hill, with the cathedral and castle at the top and the shops and river below, connected by a very steep street. This plan keeps day one for the upper city and the big sights, and uses day two for the lower city and some countryside.
It is a historic place that is often missed, and quieter than York or Cambridge.
Day 1: The uphill city
- Morning: Visit Lincoln Cathedral, one of the great Gothic buildings of Europe, and allow a couple of hours.
- Lunch: Eat on Steep Hill, the famous cobbled street linking the cathedral and the lower city.
- Afternoon: Visit Lincoln Castle, walk the wall and see one of the four surviving copies of the Magna Carta.
- Evening: Have dinner on Steep Hill or in the lower town.
Day 2: The river and the Wolds
- Morning: Walk down to Brayford Pool, a pretty harbour, and along the Fossdyke canal.
- Lunch: Eat at a cafe by the water or in the lower town.
- Afternoon: Drive or take a bus out to the Lincolnshire Wolds for a walk, or visit the Museum of Lincolnshire Life.
- Heading home: Lincoln Central station is close to the lower town, with trains to Newark, Nottingham and London.
Where to stay
The uphill area is atmospheric but quieter at night, and the lower city is closer to the station and restaurants.
Prices change daily, so check a few sites. These are affiliate links.
Getting there and around
- 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.
The city is compact but very steep, and best on foot. Parking is available at the foot of the hill and in the castle area.
If it rains
On a wet day, spend longer in the cathedral, the castle and the Usher Gallery, and browse the antique and independent shops on Steep Hill.
Packing list for Lincoln
Handy things people often forget. These are Amazon links, so prices and availability are set by Amazon.
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More kit guides: Wet-weather gear
Frequently asked questions
Is Lincoln worth a weekend?
Yes. It has a magnificent cathedral and castle, and is calmer than many historic cities.
How steep is Steep Hill?
Very. The street climbs sharply from the lower city to the cathedral, so wear comfortable shoes.
Can I see the Magna Carta?
Yes. Lincoln Castle holds one of the four surviving copies from 1215, in a dedicated vault.
Keep planning
A hilltop cathedral city with a medieval castle
Canterbury Cathedral visitCanterbury, KentCanterbury Cathedral is the mother church of the Anglican Communion and part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Durham Cathedral visitDurham, County DurhamDurham Cathedral is a masterpiece of Norman architecture beside the castle on a loop of the River Wear, together a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
York city walls walkYork, North YorkshireYork's medieval walls are among the best-preserved in England.
Last reviewed October 2026. Prices, opening times and travel details change, so check before you go. Report an error or share a tip.