Lincoln Castle - Image 1

Lincoln Castle

Lincoln, United Kingdom•4.6(11.9k)•Castle, Heritage Site, Museum

Explore 1,000 years of history at this iconic Norman castle featuring a Medieval Wall Walk, Victorian Prison, and an original 1215 Magna Carta.

Lincoln Castle is a remarkable historic fortress that invites families to walk through a millennium of English history. The venue features three main attractions: the Medieval Wall Walk offering a 360-degree exploration of towers and dungeons around the castle's perimeter, the Victorian Prison Experience showcasing an imposing period prison and its extraordinary chapel, and the opportunity to view one of the original 1215 Magna Cartas—the historic charter that fundamentally changed the course of history. The castle is ideally suited for families seeking educational and immersive historical experiences. With its combination of outdoor wall walks and indoor museum exhibitions, visitors of various ages can engage with authentic heritage displays and interactive elements. The venue offers school visits through its Investigate Learning programme, bringing history to life with exciting, age-appropriate activities. On-site amenities include Langton's Cafe, which serves refreshments, sandwiches, paninis, and cakes, making it convenient for families to spend extended time exploring. The castle is pushchair-friendly, ensuring accessibility for younger visitors. Additional features include a unique gift shop and regular events such as live performances and special exhibitions celebrating Lincoln's Norman heritage. The venue has received Visit England Gold Accolades and positive TripAdvisor recognition, confirming its status as a premier family attraction.
OFFICIAL WEBSITE

Opening Hours

Monday: 10:00 – 16:00
Tuesday: 10:00 – 16:00
Wednesday: 10:00 – 16:00
Thursday: 10:00 – 16:00
Friday: 10:00 – 16:00
Saturday: 10:00 – 16:00
Sunday: 10:00 – 16:00

Events at this venue

Venue Details

Venue Type

Indoor & Outdoor

Typical visit duration

All day

Booking

Walk-in

What this place offers

ToiletsToilets
Public transportPublic transport nearby
Accessible toilets
Free WiFi
Baby changingBaby changing facilities
Food available
On-site parking
🐕Dog-friendly
Parking nearby
Pushchair friendlyPushchair friendly

☕ Food & Drink

Langton's Cafe

Indoor catering and takeaway food and drinks including refreshments, sandwiches, panini's and cakes

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Google Reviews

4.6(11.9k reviews)
I
Ian Coleman

Ian Coleman

4 weeks ago

First time visitors to Lincoln Castle and it did not disappoint. Spent a good 5 hours looking around. To see an original copy of the Magna Carta along with its predecessor, the Forest Treaty was in credible. To think that these documents have survived over 800 years os incredible. The Victorian prison complete with its own Chapel is well worth a long look around - quite the social commentary from the period. Then there are the walls offering fantastic views over Lincoln and the surrounding countryside, not forgetting the view of the cathedrals west front. Plenty of knowledgeable guides to explain and talk about the buildings and artefacts And don't forget Lucy and Norman, the dragons at the Cobb Hall entrance to the walls

L
Lisa Tillison

Lisa Tillison

a month ago

The concert series is a fantastic boost for the castle. It provides a stunning backdrop with some amazing names on the stage. Attended Billy Ocean and Tom Grennan, shout out to the staff who clean up afterwards as the grounds were spotless. Fantastic experience, keep these going, looking forward to next year 😄

R
Rich Conlon

Rich Conlon

a month ago

This is a lovely place to visit. The jail is interesting and the Magna Carta is fascinating. The wall walk was good, although cut short due to restoration work. I happened to buy an annual pass so will definitely come back to hopefully walk the entire walls! I didnt visit the cafe, but so many people were literally having a picnic on the grounds. Everybody who was working was very friendly

A
Alec Cook

Alec Cook

2 months ago

Well preserved medieval walls which give panoramic views of the city and cathedral. Unfortunately for us about one third of the walls were closed due to refurbishment, so consider that before buying the wall tickets. The rest of the grounds are free to the public including the prison tour.

D
David Kirby

David Kirby

2 months ago

A great castle to visit, Situated in the Medival Quadrant of Lincoln this castle is a must visit. I paid £18 adult (May 2026 prices), I first went onto the walls path that gives you great views of Lincolnshire and surroundings, I then took the 11am tour that is free and I recommend this. The Gentleman tour guide was great he is actually a archaeologist, he showed everyone around the castle tell us all and some off beat stories about the history of the castle. I then went to see the Victorian prison where prisoners were kept and where they had to stay, Even if they going to be hanged. The cells were small, sometimes 3 to a cell. The women's cells of which only 8 cells were never filled up to the maximum. Onsite at the castle is a working court building where where even today Judges, Barristers, perform with jury's, and prisoners are tried. The Chaplin was a interesting place as from the pulpit the Chaplin could look directly at the prisoners and pick out certain ones and preach them about their behaviour. The prisoners seats could not see other prisoners as they were evectually closed in with a door and the seat slanted, so you had to look up. The Magna Carter and the Forestry Magna Carter were brilliant within its glass case and dark surroundings. The staff are amazing from the tour guide to the expert staff on hand at different points of the castle especially at the prison. There's a Refreshments cafe plus toliets onsite.

Reviews last updated: 6 October 2026

Events at Lincoln Castle

This venue was last updated on 6 October 2026

Frequently asked questions about Lincoln Castle

Is Lincoln Castle free to visit?

Lincoln Castle is a paid attraction — see the official website for current ticket prices.

Is Lincoln Castle dog-friendly?

Dogs are not permitted at Lincoln Castle.

Is there parking at Lincoln Castle?

Lincoln Castle doesn't have on-site parking, but parking is available nearby.

Is there food at Lincoln Castle?

Yes — Langton's Cafe is on site at Lincoln Castle. Indoor catering and takeaway food and drinks including refreshments, sandwiches, panini's and cakes

Is Lincoln Castle pushchair-friendly?

Yes, Lincoln Castle is pushchair, pram and buggy friendly — most areas are step-free so you can navigate easily with little ones in tow.

How long should we plan to spend at Lincoln Castle?

Lincoln Castle is a full-day experience — plan accordingly.

How do I get to Lincoln Castle by public transport?

Lincoln Castle is well-served by public transport.

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