Lincoln

What's on in Lincoln

April/May/June

Lincoln offers plenty of reasons to get out in the open this season. On the sporting front, there’s the Festival of Cycling (12-13 May), which includes a scenic, mass-participation ride into the Lincolnshire Wolds on the Saturday, as well as the 102-mile Lincoln Grand Prix on the Sunday. Fast-forward to 27 June and visitors and locals alike will line the streets to see the Olympic torch being carried through the city, exactly a month before the opening ceremony in London.

If you see couples jitterbugging by the waterfront or in a public square, chances are you’ve happened upon Lincoln Jazz Week (12-19 May), which offers a wealth of free music events across the city, as well as big-name musicians at the Lincolnshire Performing Arts Centre.

Brayford Waterfront will be hosting a display of over 100 highly polished vehicles at the Lincoln BIG Mini Day (15 April), followed by the Classic Car Rally (29 April). A Medieval Fete at Lincoln Cathedral (7 May) offers a celebration of traditional folk activities, from Morris men and maypole dancing to historical re-enactments, while a Moroccan market brings an exotic, souk-like experience to the high street (16-20 May).

Lincoln Drill Hall Children's Festival


10-14 April

Inspiring and imaginative events for youngsters include La Voyageur Debut, a traditional French clowning company, Travelling by Tuba, a classical music family concert, a new version of Red Riding Hood, and a TV Quiz Night with a Doctor Who theme. lincolndrillhall.com

Lincoln Beer Festival

Lincoln Beer Festival

24-26 May

The Drill Hall transforms into the biggest pub in Lincolnshire, offering over 90 real ales, plus cider, perry and international bottled beers. You can also enjoy live music on each of the three days. lincolncamra.org.uk

128th Lincolnshire Show

128th Lincolnshire Show

20-21 June

There’s something for everyone at this annual country show, from displays of livestock and a Scruffts dog competition to cooking demonstrations, vintage vehicle displays and flower shows. lincolnshireshowground.co.uk

5 things to see and do in Lincoln

5 things to see and do in Lincoln
  1. Museum of Lincolnshire Life—A Horrid History of Work

    Prepare for shocks and surprises at this one-day event (14 April) that reveals the realities of working life in Lincolnshire in times gone by. Meet cruel masters, proud engine drivers and dreary drudges; follow the free Horrid Trail and join in with craft activities. Elsewhere at the museum you can enjoy exhibits relating to industry, agriculture and the local community.

  2. The Natural World Centre

    This attractive centre, overlooking one of the five lakes at Whisby Nature Park, features a Little Darters wildlife adventure playground, a Boardwalk Café, exhibitions, workshops and a gift shop selling local crafts and photographic works. In the park itself there are more than six miles of walking routes, rich in wildlife, to explore.

  3. Superbowl Lincoln

    This family-friendly, 10-pin bowling centre has onsite bars and cafés, arcade games and fruit machines, and can cater for kids’ parties. There are also Disco Bowl nights with a resident DJ.

  4. The Magna Carta

    Housed within Lincoln Castle is one of only four surviving originals of the 1215 charter that limited the power of the king and upheld the rights of the individual. It is displayed, alongside the equally important Charter of the Forest, in the old prison part of the castle, which was built by William the Conqueror in 1068.

  5. Young Artist Workshops

    Once a month on a Saturday, The Collection, Lincoln’s art gallery and museum, runs workshops that aim to encourage the next generation of Picassos or Emins to get creative. Professionals are on hand to help, with materials such as oils, pastels, fabrics, paints and wools all provided. Workshops are suitable for 8-12-year-olds and booking in advance is required. Call 01522 550957.

Near the station

Forty Four, 44 Steep Hill, Lincoln LN2 1LU

Forty Four, 44 Steep Hill, Lincoln LN2 1LU

A treasure trove of colourful homeware and fun stationery. Everything on the shelves has been selected for its good design and handmade qualities, from Donna Wilson's lambswool cushions to gorgeous screenprints by Lush.

Tasty Vintage, 9 Steep Hill, Lincoln, LN2 1LT

Tasty Vintage, 9 Steep Hill, Lincoln, LN2 1LT

Clothing and accessories from the 1920s to the 1970s, expertly chosen by Harriet, a self-confessed addict and member of the Vintage Fashion Guild. Vintage bridal wear is also available by advance appointment.

Yak Clothing, 34 The Strait, Lincoln, LN2 1JD

Yak Clothing, 34 The Strait, Lincoln, LN2 1JD

Men's and women's street clothing store in the Cathedral Quarter, selling brands such as the retro-inspired