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10 of the Best Historic Sites in Lincolnshire

From a medieval turf maze to a glorious 17th-century mansion, here are 10 unmissable heritage sites to visit in the county of lincolnshire..

Kyle Hoekstra

19 may 2022, @kylehoekstra.

Lincolnshire, a county in England’s East Midlands, boasts a sprawling North Sea coastline and a fascinating history.

From Lincoln Castle to Belton House, Lincolnshire is rich with historical sites to explore. Explore a mysterious medieval turf maze at Julian’s Bower, visit one of the best-preserved manor houses in England at Gainsborough Old Hall, or prospect the views from the exceptional Bomber Command memorial near Lincoln.

Here are 10 of the best historic sites in Lincoln.

1. Lincoln Castle

Built by William the Conqueror in 1068, Lincoln Castle is one of England’s best-preserved and most impressive Norman castles.

One of only two English castles with two mottes, (the other being Lewes Castle in Sussex) it is the home to one of the four original copies of the Magna Carta, a recently-discovered church under the castle which pre-dates the Norman conquest, and a gruesome Victorian-era prison.

Visitors can take an immersive tour of the prison with films and touch-screen multimedia, or view the copy of the rare Magna Carta held there, where a widescreen cinema reconstructs the events leading up to its signing.

2. Julian’s Bower

Julian’s Bower is a medieval turf maze that sits high up on a rural hilltop in in North Lincolnshire, England. The maze is believed to date back to medieval times, although an air of mystery still surrounds it. The first record of the maze appears to be in the late 17th century in the diary of antiquarian Abraham de la Pryme.

The maze sits atop a hill overlooking the point where the River Trent and River Ouse meet: the Pennines and Peak District can even be seen on a clear day.

3. Belton House

Belton House is a historic 17th-century mansion house in Lincolnshire, whose stunning exterior and fascinating collections draw thousands of visitors a year.

Built between 1685 and 1688 in the Restoration style, Belton House was commissioned by John and Alice Brownlow. They gathered a group of master craftsmen, including chief joiner John Sturges who worked at Chatsworth, wrought-ironworker John Warren who worked at Denham Palace, and master mason William Stanton, who set about completing the couple’s grand plans.

The magnificent house that resulted would become the seat of the Brownlow family – and their heirs the Cust family – for over 300 years.

4. Lincoln Cathedral

Lincoln Cathedral is a stunning medieval structure thought to have once been the tallest building in the world. With its striking architecture and 1,000-year history, it is a must-see during any visit to Lincoln.

First consecrated in 1092, around 20 years after Lincoln was designated a seat of a bishopric, Lincoln Cathedral was the home of medieval Britain’s first Norman Bishop, Remigius.

Due to its many repairs and rebuilds Lincoln Cathedral boasts a wealth of architectural influences, from its medieval flying buttresses to the 17th-century Wren Library.

5. Gainsborough Old Hall

Gainsborough Old Hall is a 15th-century medieval manor house built by the Burgh family that has welcomed both royalty and religious reformers. Today, Gainsborough Old Hall is managed by English Heritage, who rank it “among the biggest and best-preserved medieval manor houses in England”.

Except for its Elizabethan additions, much of Gainsborough Old Hall is in a remarkably similar state as when it was constructed in the 15th century. One of the best examples of its medieval features is the kitchen, which may be the most complete of its kind in the country, and holds two vast original fireplaces and two bread ovens.

6. International Bomber Command Centre

The International Bomber Command Centre near Lincoln opened in 2018 with the aim of providing a permanent memorial and archive for those who served in Bomber Command during World War Two. The centre’s ‘spire’ is the UK’s tallest war memorial: a steel needle which stands at 31 metres.

27 RAF Bomber Command stations were based in Lincolnshire during World War Two. Almost half of the 125,000 people to serve with Bomber Command lost their lives in the conflict.

In addition to the memorial spire, the IBCC consists of the Chadwick Centre museum and peace garden. The museum houses exhibits on the history of Bomber Command, which includes personal belongings and stories of those who served.

7. Woolsthorpe Manor

Woolsthorpe Manor is a historic house located in the village of Woolsthorpe-by-Colsterworth, Lincolnshire, England. The manor was the birthplace and home of Sir Isaac Newton from 1642 until 1696. The house is owned by the National Trust and is open to the public.

The original house at Woolsthorpe Manor was built in the late 16th century. The house was bought by Sir Isaac Newton’s great-grandfather, also named Isaac Newton. The younger Isaac Newton was born at Woolsthorpe Manor and lived there until he was 22 years old.

In 1696, Newton returned to Woolsthorpe Manor after a long absence. He spent the final years of his life at the manor, working on his theories of calculus and gravity. Visitors can see the room where Newton was born, as well as the garden where he is said to have observed gravity.

8. Tupholme Abbey

From its founding around 1160 until its closure by Henry VIII in 1536, Tupholme Abbey was home to canons belonging to the Premonstratensian Order. Tupholme itself means ‘the island of the sheep’. The abbey church is now in ruins. The most obvious surviving part of the abbey is the south wall of what was once the refectory, later used as part of a Tudor mansion, then an ornament for a later country house, and finally part of a farm.

The Tupholme Abbey site is located between the villages of Bardney and Bucknall, about 10 miles from Lincoln and just over a mile from the River Witham. The river once provided a busy trade link between Lincoln and Boston, which resulted in eight other abbeys concentrated in this part of the Witham Valley.

9. Holbeach Royal Observer Corps Underground Monitoring Post

The Holbeach Royal Observer Corps (ROC) Underground Monitoring Post was a Cold War-era nuclear monitoring post located in Holbeach, Lincolnshire, England. In the event that the risk of nuclear attack was significant, ROC members would occupy the post and monitor nuclear activity.

Today the bunker is maintained by the Heritage Trust of Lincolnshire, who have furnished it with much of the equipment that would have been used inside. The site is intermittently open to the public.

10. Tattershall Castle

Tattershall Castle is a red brick tower in Lincolnshire built by Ralph Cromwell, Treasurer of England, in place of the somewhat less opulent building that preceded it between 1430 and 1450. Cromwell’s use of some 700,000 red bricks, as opposed to the available nearby stone, was probably guided by its status-signalling power. The result is a unique 15th century structure with exceptional views.

Tattershall Castle is an early example of fine medieval brickwork. Though it suffered during the Civil War and was subsequently left to decay, it was restored following its purchase by Lord Curzon and opened as an attraction in 1914.

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Historic Lincolnshire Guide

Ben johnson, facts about lincolnshire.

It is impossible to think of Lincolnshire without thinking of the magnificent cathedral in its county town, Lincoln . Yet there is much more to the county than this wonderful historic city; Lincolnshire is also a land of dykes and wolds, marshes and seaside resorts – and potatoes!

Lincoln itself is a superb location for a short break. The historic castle hosts one of the four original copies of the Magna Carta and is situated close to the spectacular medieval cathedral featured in the film ‘The Da Vinci Code’. But this compact city has many other attractions such as the medieval High Bridge over the River Witham with its 16th century shops. High Bridge is one of only three bridges in England with shops on them, the others being Pulteney Bridge in Bath and Frome Bridge in Somerset .

In terms of historic towns and sites in Lincolnshire, the market town of Gainsborough is home to Gainsborough Old Hall, one of the best preserved medieval manor houses in England. Nearby, Tattershall Castle is simply stunning with its red brick facade and double moat. 16th century Burghley House is a beautiful Tudor mansion with parkland laid out by Capability Brown. The famous landscape architect also planned the park surrounding 13th century Grimsthorpe Castle. Bolingbroke Castle near Spilsby is a 13th century hexagonal castle, now in ruins. It was besieged and taken by the Parliamentarians in 1643.

Lincolnshire is also famous for its windmills, and interesting ones to visit include Heckington Windmill with its unique eight sails and the six-storey high Alford Windmill.

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Centered around the cathedral and castle, the city of Lincoln is full of attractive buildings, including fine 16th century and Georgian properties.

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1. Lincoln Cathedral

2. Lincoln Castle

3. Belton Estate

4. Burghley House

5. Doddington Hall & Gardens

6. Woolsthorpe Manor

7. Lincoln Guildhall

8. Metheringham Airfield Visitor Centre

9. Lincoln Medieval Bishops' Palace

10. 20-21 Visual Arts Centre

11. Maud Foster Mill

12. Waltham Windmill

13. Boston Guildhall

14. Tolethorpe Hall

15. Epworth Old Rectory

16. Ellys Manor House

17. Bolingbroke Castle

18. Burgh le Marsh Heritage Centre

19. Thornton Abbey and Gatehouse

20. Alford Manor House

21. Jew's House

22. Brigg Heritage Centre

23. Claythorpe Watermill

24. Julian's Bower

25. Navigation House

26. Priest House

27. Newport Arch

28. Temple Bruer - Knights Templar Church Ruin

29. Pilgrim Fathers Memorial

30. Ross Castle

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We care for several historic sites in lincolnshire and believe that everyone should have the chance to enjoy and learn about them by holding regular events, talks, and open days for the public..

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Temple Bruer Knights Templar Preceptory Tower

Please note, we no longer look after this site. Please contact Lincolnshire County Council for any enquiries relating to the tower.

Home » Travel Guides » United Kingdom » England » 15 Best Places to Visit in Lincolnshire (England)

15 Best Places to Visit in Lincolnshire (England)

If you prefer countryside to be as remote and unspoiled as possible you’ll love Lincolnshire.

In the south the landscapes are flat, with wide open skies and polder farms growing flowers and vegetables.

The flatness is interrupted in the west by the Vales and in the centre by the Lincolnshire Wolds, rolling chalk and sandstone hills with the prettiest agricultural landscapes.

A lot of visitors come to the county for the coast, with its string of nostalgic seaside resorts.

But don’t neglect the towns, which have incredible churches and medieval halls and contain the birthplaces of world-changing historical personalities like Sir Isaac Newton.

Lets explore the best places to visit in Lincolnshire :

An astounding cathedral city, Lincoln nestles in a gap in the Lincoln Edge, a long escarpment in western Lincolnshire.

The old city adapts to this steep topography, and most of the historical monuments are in the higher part, known as Uphill.

There’s masses of beautiful architecture on these winding streets, where Lincoln’s clergy and military elite once lived.

Lincoln Cathedral is an English gothic treasure, completed in the early-14th century and with supreme panoramas from its roof.

Lincoln Castle is one of England’s best-preserved Norman fortresses, and is rare in that it has two earthwork mottes.

There’s a gallery at the castle presenting one of only four surviving copies of the fabled Magna Carta, dating to 1215.

2. Stamford

Almost implausibly beautiful, the centre of Stamford is composed entirely of buildings from the 1600s and 1700s.

And most of these are made with local limestone, which gives the town a solemn quality that has attracted Hollywood productions in the last decade.

You’ll want to explore every last nook, but one of most photo-worthy scenes is the view of St Mary’s Bridge crossing the Welland.

St Martin’s Church is sensational, and you also need to see the almshouse Browne’s Hospital, which was founded in 1485. But whatever you do, you’d be remiss to leave Stamford without seeing the glorious Burghley House.

This 16th-century palace was the seat of Lord Burghley, a high-flying member of Elizabeth I’s court.

In the low-lying Fens region to the south of the county, where farmland was reclaimed from marshes in the 17th century, Boston’s most emblematic monument made is all the more impressive for the flatness of the surroundings.

St Botolph’s Church, popularly known as “The Stump” for its tall and truncated tower, is from the late-14th century and could claim to be one of England’s most beautiful and unique churches.

Boston was a crucial trading post in the middle ages, when it was an unofficial member of the Hanseatic League.

The gothic 14th-century Guildhall is a testament to this importance and now houses a museum that will clue you in on Boston’s medieval wealth.

4. Grantham

This town gave England two of its most renowned figures.

First there’s Margaret Thatcher, and you can read up on her early years in the town at Grantham Museum.

Less likely to divide opinion is Sir Isaac Newton, born at Woolsthorpe Manor, moments south of Grantham, in 1642. He returned to Woolsthorpe in his 20s to perform experiments and is said to have observed that apple falling from the tree at this farmstead.

If you have a taste for country houses in landscaped grounds, Belton House and Harlaxton Manor are two majestic estates around Grantham and are suitably glorious.

While just south is Ellys Manor House, a grand early-16th-century mansion built for wool merchant in the Flemish style with a crow-stepped gable.

5. Horncastle

The well-to-do town of Horncastle was granted its market charter in the 1200s and trading continues on Thursdays and Saturdays.

Two regional delicacies to keep in mind are plumbread, a sort of fruit loaf, and poacher cheese, which is matured for a year or more.

And to be a real “yellowbelly” you’re supposed to eat them together! Pottering around Horncastle’s smart streets is fun as there’s a profusion of antiques shops in town, more than in any other place in the county.

Horncastle is also the last major settlement southwest of the Lincolnshire Wolds, so could be a tasteful place to stay while you take in the beautiful scenery in this hilly region.

6. Skegness

An good old-fashioned day at the seaside awaits you in Skegness, which had its heyday in the early-20th century after taking off towards the end of the 1800s.

This is when it got its pier, which through bad weather and accidents has suffered damage down the years but is in good condition today at almost 120 metres in length.

The beaches are long, wide and sandy, and a trait of the climate in eastern England is that there’s a smaller chance of rain than at northwester resorts like Blackpool.

Family attractions abound, like the Natureland Sea Sanctuary, a marine zoo with a conservational job, rescuing orphaned baby seal pups and releasing them back to the wild once they’re grown.

It wouldn’t be accurate to describe Grimsby as “pretty”, but you can definitely say it’s an interesting place, with a history that needs to be told.

In the mid-1900s Grimsby had the largest fishing fleet of any port in the world.

But although fishing is still a big employer, the town is now post-industrial.

So any trip to Grimsby should involve the Grimsby Fishing Heritage Centre, an immersive museum that puts you on board the Ross Tiger, a trawler from the 1950s, to see for yourself the rough conditions that trawlermen had to cope with.

8. Gainsborough

On the River Trent, which empties in the Humber more than 50 miles to the north, Gainsborough remains the most inland port in England.

In industrial times its access to the North Sea made it a base for manufacturing, and during a stroll around the centre you won’t help but notice Marshall’s Yard, where the long-defunct Marshall, Sons & Co would produce agricultural machinery, and which is now a shopping precinct.

For history of a more courtly kind, Gainsborough Old Hall is among the most complete medieval manors in England, completed in 1460. Kings would stop and dine here on their way up to York, and amid its warren of passageways is possibly England’s best-preserved medieval kitchen and a marvellous Great Hall that evokes renaissance feasts.

With the Wolds to the west  and the coast not far to the east, the first landmark you’ll spot as you approach Louth is the spire of St James’ Church.

And this monument is the ideal starting point for a wander around the handsome town.

You’re looking at the tallest medieval steeple of any parish church in the country, towering to almost 90 metres and completed in 1515. Unlike many towns in England, Louth has kept its traditional shopping amenities like butchers, bakeries and greengrocers.

Louth is also billed as the “Capital of the Wolds”, and you hardly have to leave the town to get a taste of the characteristic rolling scenery: Hubbard’s Hills is an idyllic chalk valley donated to the people of Louth in the early-20th century.

10. Sleaford

Rated as one of Lincolnshire’s most liveable towns, Sleaford is a historic town around yet another of the county’s sublime churches.

The outdoor market in front of the church still trades on Mondays, Fridays and Saturdays, and of you happen to be around for the first Saturday of the month there’s a special farmers’ market bring the best of the local produce from the fertile Fenlands.

And as for that church, St Denys’ was finished around the 1300s with a decorated gothic design and is feted for the dainty traceries on its windows.

The Slea River has been crucial to Sleaford’s growth: In the 1700s it was made navigable to barges, and the wharfs you can still see in the town are a symptom of that development.

11. Market Rasen

Grazing the western reaches of the Wolds Area of Natural Beauty, Market Rasen is a quintessential English market town.

The centre has few modern buildings; instead there are dignified red brick townhouses from the 18th and 19th century.

If horseracing is your thing there are meetings year-round at Market Rasen Racecourse, at Market Rasen Golf Club has been open for more than a century and has very affordable green fees.

The bucolic splendour of the Wolds is on the doorstep, as is the village of Tealby, often voted as the most beautiful in Lincolnshire.

Have a pint or pub lunch at the King’s Head here, which is the oldest thatched pub in the county, established in 1367.

12. Cleethorpes

One of England’s beloved “bucket and spade” seaside destinations, Cleethorpes comes into its own on warm summer days.

At the start of the 19th century this was just a fishing village with a population of 200 or so, but the railways brought visitors from Yorkshire’s industrial towns keen for some fresh air, and by 1873 the elegant wrought iron pier had opened.

This structure still has a swish restaurant at its end and was named “Pier of the Year” in 2016. Cleethorpes’ allure hasn’t changed since the 1870s either; there are more than four miles of sandy beaches and lots to keep kids happy, from crazy golf to the Cleethorpes Light Railway.

13. Spalding

Right in the south of Lincolnshire, in the district of South Holland Spalding is England’s centre for flower cultivation and  every spring the Spalding Flower Festival is dedicated to the local bulb industry.

The most spectacular property in Spalding has to be Ayscoughfee Hall, a 15th century house that looks just as it did when it was built and is conserved as a museum in delightful formal gardens.

In summer the most relaxing way to get there is on the Spalding Water Taxi: This shuttles along the River Welland and theCoronation Channel between the town centre and the Springfields Shopping Outlet.

14. Caistor

In the northernmost hills of the Lincolnshire Wolds, Caistor is a quaint market town that prides itself on the welcome it gives to walkers.

In the warmer months a lot of people pass through on the Viking Way, a 147-mile footpath that weaves through the county from the Humber Bridge down to Rutland beyond Lincolnshire’s southern boundary.

And you couldn’t pick a more charming place to stay, as Caistor’s centre has lots of beautiful Georgian and Victorian homes all belonging to a conservation area around the lovely market square.

Small but sweet, the town of Alford is a stone’s throw from the Wolds but also minutes from resorts like Mablethorpe on the coast.

Alford is a rural town that has also cultivated an artistic side, as you’ll find out on Bank Holiday weekends in May and August when craft markets set up here.

Alford Manor House is a melange of styles, but has interior fittings going back to the 1611. Inside you get a real cross-section of life in this part of Lincolnshire, in galleries full of farming tools and memorabilia for the village.

Alford also has a working five-sailed windmill, which continues to grind organic grain for its tea room.

15 Best Places to Visit in Lincolnshire (England):

• Gainsborough
• Market Rasen
• Cleethorpes

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Best places to visit in Lincolnshire

Penned on the 30th November 2023

If you’re seeking a travel destination with picturesque landscapes and captivating history and culture, Lincolnshire is a gem well worth visiting. This county on the eastern side of England offers windswept coastlines and expansive green countryside for nature-lovers and outdoor enthusiasts to explore. Many of its landscapes are flat and sparsely populated too, so it’s a great place to enjoy long hikes, gentle bike rides and some wonderful wildlife-spotting.

Beyond its natural beauty and outdoor adventures, Lincolnshire has lots of fascinating heritage to discover too, including ancient castles, a majestic cathedral and the birthplace and home of Sir Isaac Newton. There are also ample vibrant market towns for days spent dipping in and out of independent boutiques and galleries, as well as plenty of pubs, restaurants and cafés to sample the county’s delicious food and drink, of course. And the locals here are notoriously friendly, so you’re sure to be greeted with a warm welcome. 

So whether you're after a serene countryside escape or an activity-packed adventure, Lincolnshire offers an abundance of things to see and do for all ages and tastes. We’ve pulled together some of our favourite places to visit in this diverse and beautiful county to help you plan your trip.

Historic attractions

Lincoln cathedral.

Standing proud in the heart of Lincoln’s historic city is Lincoln Cathedral , a spectacular example of Gothic architecture, built in the 11th century. Its awe-inspiring spires, intricate stone carvings and beautiful stained glass windows capture the building’s 900-year history and medieval past in a mesmerising way. There are extraordinary panoramic views of the city and surrounding countryside from the Central Tower too, if you’re happy to climb the 300 steps to the top! Plus the cathedral has a vibrant schedule filled with enticing events and exhibitions, from ‘historic graffiti tours’ to live orchestras. If you’d like to stay a little while, Lincolnshire Cathedral Café is a lovely spot to savour a hot drink and a sweet treat overlooking the peaceful courtyard and gardens.

Woolsthorpe Manor 

Nestled in the Lincolnshire countryside is Woolsthorpe Manor , a farmhouse that was the birthplace and home of one of the most prominent figures in the scientific revolution, Sir Isaac Newton. It was here that Newton sought refuge from the Bubonic Plague in 1665, then worked for months in solitude on his groundbreaking experiments on light, optics and gravity. In fact, the famous apple tree that inspired his gravitational theory still stands in the manor’s orchard, surviving over 350 years since that all-important moment! Nowadays the site is operated by National Trust, offering visitors a chance to delve into Newton’s world, relive his experiments and get a unique glimpse into his 17th-century childhood. 

Lincoln Castle

For a historic adventure that the whole family will love, head to Lincoln Castle . In this formidable fortress you’ll find over a millennium of captivating history dating back to the 11th century, when it was built by William the Conqueror. Explore the towers and dungeons on the dramatic Medieval Wall Walk (where you’ll get great views of the Cathedral and the rest of the city too), learn about the gruesome history at the Victorian Prison and visit the iconic Magna Carta, a charter that changed the course of English history. There’s so much to discover here, you’re sure to work up an appetite too – the on-site Langton’s Café is the perfect place to refuel in the historic grounds of the castle.

Activities in nature 

The water rail way cycle route.

The Water Rail Way is a cyclist’s dream, spanning 33 miles of Lincoln’s scenic landscapes. The mostly traffic-free, purpose-built trail follows the former Lincoln to Boston railway line, starting in the city and meandering alongside tranquil waterways and stunning greenery to the tip of the Lincolnshire Wolds. It’s fairly flat too, so it’s ideal for all ages and experience levels. Look out for the viewpoints of the fenlands, artist’s sculptures and wildlife along the way, as well as the local rare breeds of Lincoln Red cattle, Lincoln Longwool sheep and Curly Coat pigs. And if you don’t have your own bikes, head to the nearby Woodhall Spa Bike Hire for all of the kit you’ll need. 

The Lincolnshire Wolds Way

This 76-mile circular walk takes in the very best of the Lincolnshire Wolds, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty with 216 square miles of glorious rolling hills, open farmland, peaceful valleys and charming villages. The route has been broken down into five different stages, each of which averages around six hours of walking – perfect for a day hiking in the fresh countryside air (or five whole days, if you want to complete it all!). The route starts and ends in Louth, known as the ‘Gateway to the Wolds’ and takes in breathtaking vistas, historic sites and welcoming pubs along the way. You can plan your route and download the maps here . 

Cloud Bar, Anderby Creek

For something a little different, head to Cloud Bar in the village of Anderby Creek. Since 2009 this observatory beside the sea has been proudly living up to its title of the world’s first ‘Official Cloudspotting Area’ – and it’s a wonderful place to unwind for a little while. This bar doesn’t serve drinks but rather has ‘cloud menus’ where you can learn all about the cumulonimbuses or cirruses overhead. Spend some peaceful time reclining on the specially-built cloud-viewing seats and admiring the magnificent sky, using the swivelling mirrors to explore different areas and enjoy new perspectives. And once you’re ready to get moving again, Anderby Creek’s four-mile-long sandy beach is the perfect place for a stroll in the fresh sea air. 

Hartsholme Country Park

Spread across 200 acres of stunning grounds, Hartsholme Country Park is a tranquil haven just south of the city of Lincoln. This award-winning park was originally landscaped in 1860 – and today you’ll find ornate Victorian gardens, a vast reservoir and beautiful woodlands here, making it a gorgeous spot for a gentle walk and time to connect with nature. The adjacent Swanholme Lakes Nature Reserve is a habitat for all kinds of flora and fauna too, from kingfishers and butterflies to rare song thrush, bullfinches and pipistrelle bats. And if you’ve got little ones in tow, there’s also a children’s play area where they can let off some steam whilst you relax.

Independent shopping

English towns don’t get much more picturesque than Stamford . Here almost all of the buildings are 16th and 17th century limestone; in fact, it’s the most complete stone town in England and was declared a conservation area in 1967, with whole streets unchanged for centuries and over 600 listed buildings. Stamford’s independent shopping scene is thriving too, with everything from quaint bookshops and modern fashion boutiques to artisan bakeries and traditional delis lining its historic picture-perfect streets, as well as a bustling market on a Friday. If you’re after a delicious, freshly prepared brunch or lunch to fuel your shopping trip, head to Lamberts , a gorgeous kitchen and café tucked away down one of the narrow lanes off the High Street.

Castle Square, Lincoln

On the cobbled streets in the city of Lincoln you’ll find the characterful Castle Square, nestled between the castle and the cathedral in the city’s Cathedral Quarter. There are all kinds of wonderful street markets hosted here, including the regular Farmer’s Market (every third Saturday of the month), a vibrant Maker’s Market (the first Saturday of each month from March to September) and an eclectic Antique Market (every third Sunday of the month from March to September). All offer a lovely chance to meet local producers, artists and business owners and find something unique to take home – with a beautiful backdrop of Lincoln’s historic buildings, too.

The market town of Boston has a rich heritage and is known to many as the home of the Pilgrim Fathers, who sailed from its dramatic coast and settled in what is now Boston, Massachusetts. It’s not just famed for its history and landscape though; Boston offers a brilliant range of boutiques, galleries and eateries, ideal for a day of independent shopping. Right in the centre of the town you’ll find Boston’s iconic open-air market every Wednesday and Saturday, an energetic shopping experience that’s been running here for hundreds of years – and the perfect place to pick up some local produce. Make sure you allow some time to visit ‘The Stump’ too, Boston’s most notable landmark and the largest church in England, towering above the town at 272 feet tall.  And to top off your day in style, why not head to The Folly for a cocktail beside the river?

Family entertainment

Wild pines park.

Adventurous families will love Wild Pines Park , an outdoor centre near Market Rasen offering one the largest ropes courses in the UK. Visitors of all ages can enjoy over 1,000 metres of tree-top rope adventures, with exciting zip lines and swinging walkways of varying difficulties and heights – depending how much of a challenge you want to take on! Plus there’s an epic Night Time Adventure for the extra intrepid explorers. If you prefer to keep your feet on the ground, there are mini golf, archery and fun treasure-hunting trails here, as well as educational Bushcraft Experiences with outdoor instructors. You’ll want to stay for the whole day, so make sure you take a hearty picnic and a flask of hot chocolate.  

For a traditional British day at the seaside, pack your buckets and spades and head to Skegness, one of the UK’s first seaside resorts that’s still well-loved by visitors today. Skegness’s vast Blue Flag sandy beach is one of Lincolnshire’s best, with plenty of facilities, amusements and places to buy an ice cream nearby, as well as a vintage pier and promenade to explore. When you’re finished at the beach you can visit Fantasy Island to ride the rollercoasters or Skegness Aquarium to marvel at the sharks and sea creatures. And be sure to stop at Papa’s for the ultimate seaside dish, a portion of mouthwatering fish and chips. This fourth-generation family takeaway and restaurant has won multiple awards since it opened in 1966 (including the title of ‘Britain’s Best Fish & Chips’!) so it’s an excellent choice. 

J&J Alpacas

If you’re looking for a unique family day out, try J&J Alpacas near Newark. Home to over 90 alpacas, here you can experience amazing up-close interactions with these gentle fluffy creatures. Choose from the beautiful Alpaca Trail & Woodland Wander where you can watch the animals in their paddocks, the Meet & Greet experience to get in the paddocks for feeding time, or the Alpaca Trekking Experience, an unforgettable hour-long adventure with some of the trained trekking boys. All offer plenty of opportunities for wonderful photos – and something extra special to tell your friends about when you get home! There’s an on-site coffee shop serving hot drinks and tasty food (including afternoon tea) and a charming shop where you can browse the alpaca wool products and souvenirs.

The Kinema In The Woods

The Kinema In The Woods is a privately-owned cinema dating back to 1922, tucked away in the woodlands in the village of Woodhall Spa. Showcasing everything from new releases to old classics, it’s a quirky place to go and see a film – and not just for its unusual location! Inside you’ll find retro decor, live organ performances and ice cream served in the interval. Plus it’s the only fully functioning cinema in the UK to still use back projection, so it’s steeped in nostalgia as well as eccentricity. The Kinema In The Woods is open every day except for Christmas Day so take a look at their show times to see what’s on during your visit to Lincolnshire.

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THE 10 BEST Lincolnshire Sights & Landmarks

Lincolnshire landmarks.

• Churches & Cathedrals
• Points of Interest & Landmarks
• Monuments & Statues
• Historic Sites
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Budget-friendly
• Good for Kids
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Good for Big Groups
• Hidden Gems
• Good for Couples
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Adventurous
• Honeymoon spot
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Lincoln Cathedral

2. Lincoln Castle

Recommended Sightseeing Experiences (14)

3. Steep Hill

4. Belton Estate

5. International Bomber Command Centre

6. Burghley House

7. Tattershall Castle

8. Doddington Hall & Gardens

9. Hardys Animal Farm

10. Woolsthorpe Manor

11. Tattershall Farm Park

12. Gainsborough Old Hall

13. Lincoln Guildhall

14. Grimsthorpe Castle

15. Gunby Hall and Gardens

16. The Pink Pig Farm

17. Rand Farm Park

18. Skegness Pier

19. St. Botolph's Church (Boston Stump)

20. Skegness Raceway - Stadium

21. Hall Farm Park

22. Dambusters Memorial

23. Heckington Windmill

24. Cogglesford Watermill

25. Bransby Horses

26. Gridline Racing Indoor Karting Centre

27. St James Church

28. Metheringham Airfield Visitor Centre

29. Time Trap Museum

30. Lincoln Medieval Bishops' Palace

What travellers are saying

Historic Sites in Lincolnshire, England

Lincolnshire historic sites.

• Churches & Cathedrals
• Points of Interest & Landmarks
• Monuments & Statues
• Historic Sites
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Budget-friendly
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Good for Kids
• Good for Big Groups
• Hidden Gems
• Good for Couples
• Honeymoon spot
• Adventurous
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Lincoln Cathedral

2. Lincoln Castle

3. Belton Estate

4. Burghley House

5. Doddington Hall & Gardens

6. Woolsthorpe Manor

7. Lincoln Guildhall

8. Metheringham Airfield Visitor Centre

9. Lincoln Medieval Bishops' Palace

10. 20-21 Visual Arts Centre

11. Maud Foster Mill

12. Waltham Windmill

13. Boston Guildhall

14. Tolethorpe Hall

15. Epworth Old Rectory

16. Ellys Manor House

17. Bolingbroke Castle

18. Burgh le Marsh Heritage Centre

19. Thornton Abbey and Gatehouse

20. Alford Manor House

21. Jew's House

22. Brigg Heritage Centre

23. Claythorpe Watermill

24. Julian's Bower

25. Navigation House

26. Priest House

27. Newport Arch

28. Temple Bruer - Knights Templar Church Ruin

29. Pilgrim Fathers Memorial

30. Ross Castle

What travellers are saying