Lincoln Castle
Explore a historic Norman fortress, home to an original Magna Carta and offering stunning city views from its medieval walls.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

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Best Time
Crisp air, great city views
Lincoln Castle
Best Time
Crisp air, great city views

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore a historic Norman fortress, home to an original Magna Carta and offering stunning city views from its medieval walls.
"A MUST is to join the guided walk to get the 'chat' about the various areas of the castle…So worthwhile."
🎯 Steep Climb Ahead!
The walk up to the castle is steep. Consider a taxi or bus if you have mobility issues. :athletic_shoe:
🎟️ Combo Ticket Savings
Explore different ticket options for the wall walk, Magna Carta, and prison to find the best value. :ticket:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Medieval Wall Walk
Outer walls of Lincoln Castle
Experience breathtaking city views and a journey through history on the castle ramparts.

Magna Carta Exhibition
Lincoln Castle
See an original Magna Carta, a foundational document of democracy, and learn its significance.
Victorian Prison Tours
Lincoln Castle
Explore the eerie cells and stories of the former Victorian prison, offering a glimpse into the past.
Plans like a pro.
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Planning Your Visit
Steep Walks & Smart Ticketing
Time Your Visit for Views & Events
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Steep Climb Ahead!
The walk up to the castle is steep. Consider a taxi or bus if you have mobility issues.
:athletic_shoe:🎟️ Combo Ticket Savings
Explore different ticket options for the wall walk, Magna Carta, and prison to find the best value.
:ticket:🚶♀️ Guided Tour is Key
Join a guided tour for fascinating stories and context about the castle's history.
:walking:📸 Capture the Views
The wall walk offers stunning panoramic views of Lincoln Cathedral and the city.
:camerawithflash:Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Steep Climb Ahead!
The walk up to the castle is steep. Consider a taxi or bus if you have mobility issues.
:athletic_shoe:🎟️ Combo Ticket Savings
Explore different ticket options for the wall walk, Magna Carta, and prison to find the best value.
:ticket:🚶♀️ Guided Tour is Key
Join a guided tour for fascinating stories and context about the castle's history.
:walking:📸 Capture the Views
The wall walk offers stunning panoramic views of Lincoln Cathedral and the city.
:camerawithflash:☕ Reasonable Cafe
The castle cafe offers good food and drink at reasonable prices.
:coffee:What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Lincoln Castle for its historical significance, particularly the Magna Carta and the well-preserved Victorian prison. The medieval wall walk is a highlight, offering stunning city views, though the steep climb is noted. The cafe is considered reasonable, and guided tours are highly recommended for a richer experience.
"Visited here while staying in the area. A STEEP walk up from Broadgate car park in the town…..get a taxi ? Its free to get into the ‘grounds’ and then pay more to do the ‘walls walk’ and more to see the Magna Carta/prison areas. A MUST is to join the guided walk to get the ‘chat’ about the various areas of the castle….So worthwhile. Cafe is very reasonable too."
Ian Bradbury
"We mainly went for the cathedral; which was amazing. The castle was ok too. The best things about it are the views from the external wall walk and the film and display of the Magna Carta. A very important document on which most world democracy is based."
Mike Stryk
"Allow plenty of time for your visit as lots to see. Highly recommend the Roof tour too, £7.50 charged separately to entrance fee of £12.50. Lovely cafe too."
Pauline Barnfather
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Lincoln Castle is located on Castle Hill. Many visitors find the walk from the city center or car parks steep. Taxis or local buses are good alternatives if you prefer to avoid the uphill climb.
There are several car parks in Lincoln, including Broadgate car park, which is a short walk away, though still involves an uphill route. Check local parking apps for real-time availability and pricing.
While the grounds are generally accessible, the wall walk and some areas of the prison may have limitations due to the historic nature of the site. Check with the castle directly for the most up-to-date accessibility information.
The West Gate is primarily for jury service access to the Crown Court and may not be open to the general public during castle opening hours. It's best to use the main entrance for public access.
Many visitors enjoy walking the 'uphill' area, which includes Lincoln Castle and the Cathedral. It's a charming area with independent shops and pubs, but be prepared for inclines.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices vary depending on which parts of the castle you wish to access. General admission to the grounds is free, but the wall walk, Magna Carta exhibition, and prison tours require separate tickets. Check the official Lincoln Castle website for current prices and any potential discounts.
Booking tickets in advance is recommended, especially during peak season or for special events like Christmas illuminations, to guarantee entry and potentially save time.
Standard tickets typically grant access to the wall walk and the Magna Carta exhibition. Some tickets may also include entry to the Victorian prison. Always check the specific ticket details when purchasing.
Keep an eye on the Lincoln Castle website for any special offers, family deals, or group discounts. Sometimes, joint tickets with Lincoln Cathedral might be available.
Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official Lincoln Castle website for the most up-to-date information on opening and closing times before your visit.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Lincoln Castle offers a rich historical experience, including the original Magna Carta, a Victorian prison, and a medieval wall walk with panoramic city views.
The wall walk offers incredible views but involves stairs and uneven surfaces. It requires a reasonable level of fitness. If the lift is out of order, you'll need to be able to manage spiral staircases.
Built by William the Conqueror in the 11th century, Lincoln Castle has a long and varied history, serving as a fortress, prison, and administrative center. Its construction is a testament to Norman engineering.
Yes, guided tours are highly recommended. They provide in-depth historical context and fascinating stories about the castle's past, making the visit much more engaging.
Lincoln Castle is one of only four places in the world to hold an original Magna Carta. This document is a cornerstone of liberty and democracy, making its presence here incredibly significant.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, Lincoln Castle has a cafe that offers a selection of food and drinks. It's known for being reasonably priced and serving good quality items.
While not explicitly mentioned as a regular offering, some visitors have inquired about afternoon tea. It's best to check directly with Lincoln Castle or look for special event announcements for any afternoon tea opportunities.
The Bailgate area, near Lincoln Castle, offers a variety of pubs, cafes, and restaurants, perfect for a meal before or after your visit.
📸 📸 Photography
The medieval wall walk provides stunning panoramic views of Lincoln Cathedral and the city, making it ideal for photography. The castle grounds themselves also offer many picturesque angles.
Photography is generally permitted within the castle grounds and on the wall walk. However, there might be restrictions on photography inside certain exhibitions or the prison area for preservation or privacy reasons. Always check signage.
Drone usage is typically restricted at historic sites like Lincoln Castle to protect the heritage and ensure visitor safety. It's advisable to check the castle's official policy on drones before flying.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the castle grounds are generally accessible, be mindful of the steep inclines and the stairs on the wall walk. Consider bringing a carrier for very young children. The cafe offers kid-friendly options, and the open spaces can be good for a break. Check for any family-specific events or activities that might be running during your visit.
🚶 Budget Travelers
To maximize value, consider purchasing a combined ticket that includes the main attractions you're most interested in. Pack a picnic to enjoy on the grounds, and take advantage of the reasonably priced cafe for a more affordable meal option. Walking from the city center, rather than taking a taxi, also saves money, provided you're prepared for the uphill trek.
🏛️ History Buffs
Don't miss the guided tours, which are invaluable for gaining deeper insights into the castle's rich narrative. The historical context provided by the guides truly brings the stones and stories to life, making it an enriching experience for anyone passionate about British history.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History of Lincoln Castle
The castle's most significant historical artifact is one of the four surviving original copies of the Magna Carta, sealed in 1215. This document, a cornerstone of constitutional law, is displayed at Lincoln Castle and draws visitors from around the globe. The castle also houses a fascinating Victorian prison, offering a stark look into penal history, and the medieval wall walk provides a tangible connection to the castle's defensive past.
Beyond its military and legal significance, Lincoln Castle has also been a site of community events and historical reenactments. Its enduring presence on the Lincoln skyline is a constant reminder of the city's rich and complex past, making it a vital landmark for understanding English history.
Exploring the Lincoln Castle Wall Walk
While the views are spectacular, it's important to note that the wall walk involves numerous steps and uneven surfaces, including spiral staircases in some sections. Visitors should be reasonably fit and wear comfortable footwear. The castle does have a lift, but it is not always operational, so checking its status beforehand is advisable if mobility is a concern.
Walking the walls provides a fantastic opportunity to appreciate the scale of the castle and its integration with the surrounding landscape. It's a chance to imagine life centuries ago and to capture some truly memorable photographs of the city and the castle itself.
The Magna Carta at Lincoln Castle
The exhibition dedicated to the Magna Carta at Lincoln Castle provides comprehensive context about its creation, its impact, and its enduring legacy. Interactive displays and informative presentations help visitors understand the significance of this medieval charter and its influence on legal systems across the globe. Seeing this document firsthand is a profound experience for anyone interested in history, law, or the evolution of civil liberties.
Visiting the Magna Carta exhibition is a must-do when at Lincoln Castle. It’s a chance to witness a tangible piece of history that has shaped the modern world and to appreciate the foresight of those who fought for fundamental rights centuries ago.
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