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Things To Do
You will be spoilt for choice when it comes to places to visit, shop and eat. Below is just a small selection of ideas - our Digital Guidebook which we send to all our visitors, offers much more inspiration.
Lincoln Cathedral
One of Europe’s finest Gothic buildings, once the tallest in the world, with stunning views from the roof and tower and intricate design inside.
Once described by Victorian writer John Ruskin as "out and out the most precious piece of architecture in the British Isles and roughly speaking worth any two other cathedrals we have", Lincoln Cathedral is not to be missed.
Medieval Lincoln Castle
Discover a world of rich history at Lincoln Castle, home to one of only four surviving copies of Magna Carta.
Built by William the Conqueror in 1068 on a site occupied since Roman times, Lincoln Castle has dominated the Lincoln skyline for almost one thousand years. Inside the Castle walls is also a Victorian prison giving an insight into crime and punishment in the Lincoln of the past.
Doddington Hall & Gardens
Begun in 1595 by Robert Smythson, one of England’s foremost Elizabethan architects, Doddington Hall was completed in 1600 and has never been sold or cleared out since. An example of a fine late Elizabethan Mansion, it is still a lived-in and much loved family home, alive with history and interest.
Must See Aviation Heritage
A visit to Lincolnshire is the perfect way to experience aviation history with fascinating heritage sites, museums, and centres to explore.
Known as Bomber County during World War II due to the squadrons based in the county, Lincolnshire is still today at the centre of aviation, being home to several RAF bases, the International Bomber Command Centre and the famous RAF Red Arrows.
Historic Newark-on-Trent
Situated on the banks of the River Trent, Newark is a picturesque market town steeped in history. The ruins of Newark Castle have had a huge influence on the unique character of the town. Though the current remains were built in the early 12th century, there has been a castle on the site since 1068. Left in ruins by a turbulent history, the grounds were landscaped in 1887.
Gainsborough Old Hall
Gainsborough Old Hall is a unique medieval manor house right in the centre of Gainsborough. Sir Thomas Burgh built it between 1460 and 1480 and it remains much as he left it, to the delight of thousands of visitors each year. The Friends were formed in 1949 to save the building from decay, and to open it to the public.
Shopping
Doddington Farm Shop
Opened in 2007, this award-winning Farm Shop was born out of a passion for good quality, seasonal, local food. You’ll find fruit and vegetables with zero food miles freshly picked from the fabulous Kitchen Garden (back in production after a 50 year absence), beef in the Butchery is often from their own herd of Lincolnshire Red Cattle along with an abundance of other produce from local suppliers.
Lincoln Farmers' Markets
Meet local farmers, local artists and craftspeople and many more at the great variety of markets through the year. Find local food and produce, unique artwork and quirky ornaments, antiques and gifts at these unique markets in Lincoln and Lincolnshire.
Bailgate, Steep Hill & the Strait, Lincoln
Lincoln's independent shops and boutiques in the Cathedral Quarter offer a unique shopping experience on Bailgate or along Steep Hill and the Strait. In close walking distance to all the city's main attractions, it is the perfect place to spend your day shopping.
Hemswell Antiques
Hemswell Antiques is set in rural Lincolnshire, just a few miles from Lincoln. You can spend the day exploring the maze of rooms in each building which feature a choice of beautiful high quality goods and take some time to relax and sample their homemade delights from locally sourced produce in one of their coffee shops.
Eating Out
The Railway Inn, Thorpe on the Hill
A traditional village pub serving excellent food Wednesday to Saturday and a delicious carvery on Sundays.
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Dogs are welcome in their outdoor heated marquee.
Royal Oak, Aubourn
Rob and Rachael invite you to dine from the extensive menu at lunchtimes and evenings offering a wide range of cuisine including a good choice of vegetarian and gluten free options. There is always the regularly updated Specials Board to tempt you even further.
The Green Man, Norton Disney
A real ale village pub serving delicious local and seasonal food.
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Dogs are welcome in the bar.
The Five Bells, Bassingham
The Five Bells is a welcoming charmingly unique country pub, run by Adrian and Di Govier, serving good traditional English food, locally sourced where possible.
Dogs are welcome in the bar.