Attractions and Places To See around Lincoln - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Lincoln include historical sites, waterways, and natural areas. Lincoln is a cathedral city with a rich history, featuring medieval architecture and a landscape shaped by rivers and canals. Visitors can explore a variety of places to visit in Lincoln, from ancient structures to tranquil green spaces. The region offers diverse opportunities for short day trips from Lincoln, catering to different interests.
Best attractions and places to see around Lincoln
- The most popular attractions is Lincoln Cathedral, a religious building and historical site. It is a magnificent selection of places for food and drink, boutiques, artisan shops, galleries, and places to stay, it is a great place to stop and explore. The cathedral is the symbol of Lincoln and dominates the city's skyline.
- Another must-see spot is High Bridge (The Glory Hole), Lincoln, a bridge and man-made monument. This bridge carries Lincoln High Street across the River Witham and is the oldest bridge in the UK which still has buildings on it. The row of timber-framed shops on the west side of the bridge date from about 1550.
- Visitors also love Brayford Pool, England's oldest inland harbour. Originally used as a port by the Romans, it is now a hub for water craft and offers a selection of places for food, drink, and entertainment.
- Lincoln is known for its historical sites, waterways, and family-friendly attractions. The area provides a variety of places to see and explore, from ancient monuments to scenic river trails.
- The attractions around Lincoln are appreciated by the komoot community, with 130 upvotes and 126 photos shared by users.
Last updated: May 4, 2026
Lincoln Cathedral
Highlight • Religious Site
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The Pyewipe Inn
Highlight • Pub
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Brayford Pool
Highlight • Settlement
Today you can enjoy watching a variety of water craft coming and going from the vantage point of a great selection of places offering food, drink and entertainment.
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West Common
Highlight • Viewpoint
Horses can be found grazing across this whole area, a site dating back to the 11th century and the High Medieval Era's common grazing rights. The area is a popular space for the horse's owners to ride and train the horses. Alongside this is other wildlife including a population of skylark.
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High Bridge (The Glory Hole), Lincoln
Highlight • Bridge
Translated by Google •
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Fossdyke Navigation
Highlight • River
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Hartsholme Park
Highlight • Forest
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Lion Statue, Lincoln Arboretum
Highlight • Monument
The Arboretum also offers it's visitors tea rooms, a Victorian bandstand, a cast iron folly, and extensive gardens with terrace features, ponds and bridges.
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Steep Hill
Highlight • Viewpoint
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Lincoln Tank Memorial Sculpture
Highlight • Historical Site
Lincoln Cathedral, built of Lincolnshire limestone, was finally consecrated by Remigius de Fécamp, the first Bishop of Lincoln, on May 9th in 1092.
In 1916 the first ever tanks were designed and built in Lincoln, giving the city the nicknamed 'Tank Town'. These machines were paraded through the city before going to war and significantly shortened the First World War, preventing many more casualties.
Information from: visitlincoln.com/about-lincoln/history-heritage
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Popular around Lincoln
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Tips from the Community
great for some sheltered winter woodland and trail riding as the place is empty in the week in the duller colder months. summer is a no go on the bike as it gets very busy with lots of young ones around
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The park can be busy, if it is use the playing field car park on the opposite side of Skellingthorpe Road
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The path beside the Fossdyke has at one end the Brayford pool in Lincoln with pubs, restaurants and cinema. The route continues past the Pyewipe Inn, Beyond that is Burton Waters with the very popular Woodcocks. Further on is the village of Saxilby with its railway station.
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narrow path here alongside a very busy main road - barriers either side though.
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The High Bridge (Glory Hole) is a grade 1 listed stone bridge, it was built around 1160.
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The Lion Statue is situated in the middle of the Aboretum.
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Worth the effort to get to the top, there you can visit the cathedral and the castle
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there family-friendly attractions around Lincoln?
Yes, Lincoln offers several family-friendly attractions. You can explore the historic Lincoln Cathedral and High Bridge (The Glory Hole), which are both suitable for all ages. Brayford Pool, England's oldest inland harbour, is also a great spot for families, offering entertainment and dining options. Additionally, natural spaces like Hartsholme Park provide opportunities for outdoor fun.
What historical sites can I visit in Lincoln?
Lincoln is rich in history. Key historical sites include the magnificent Lincoln Cathedral, a religious building and historical landmark. The High Bridge (The Glory Hole), dating back to 1160 AD with timber-framed shops from 1550, is another must-see. Brayford Pool, originally a Roman port, also holds significant historical value. For a more modern historical perspective, you can visit the Lincoln Tank Memorial Sculpture.
Where can I find scenic viewpoints or natural areas near Lincoln?
For scenic views and natural beauty, consider visiting West Common, which offers open green spaces. Hartsholme Park is another excellent choice, featuring forests and a lake. The Fossdyke Navigation, an ancient canal, provides tranquil waterside paths perfect for enjoying the scenery.
Are there any easy walking trails around Lincoln?
Yes, there are several easy walking trails. For example, you can explore routes like the 'Hartsholme Lake Boathouse loop' or the 'West Common loop'. These are part of the easy hikes available around Lincoln. You can find more details and routes on the Easy hikes around Lincoln guide.
What outdoor activities can I do near Lincoln's attractions?
Beyond sightseeing, you can enjoy various outdoor activities. Running enthusiasts can find routes like the 'Lincoln to 5-Mile Bridge loop' or the 'Lincoln Cathedral – Yarborough Leisure Centre loop'. Cyclists can explore the Fossdyke Navigation or the Water Rail Way (NCN Route 1). For more options, check out the Running Trails around Lincoln and Gravel biking around Lincoln guides.
Are there dog-friendly places to visit or walks near Lincoln?
Many of Lincoln's outdoor spaces are dog-friendly. Areas like West Common and Hartsholme Park are popular for walks with pets. The paths along the Fossdyke Navigation also offer pleasant dog-walking opportunities. Always ensure dogs are kept on a lead where required and clean up after them.
What are some unique or lesser-known places to explore in Lincoln?
Beyond the main landmarks, you might enjoy the tranquil setting of The Pyewipe Inn, located alongside the Fossdyke Canal Trail, offering a relaxed atmosphere away from the city bustle. The Lion Statue in Lincoln Arboretum is another charming spot within a historic park.
Can I find places to eat and drink near outdoor trails in Lincoln?
Absolutely. The Pyewipe Inn is conveniently located alongside the Fossdyke Canal Trail, making it a perfect stop for a meal and a pint after a walk or cycle. Brayford Pool also offers a selection of places for food, drink, and entertainment right by the water, accessible from various city walks.
Is Lincoln accessible for visitors with mobility needs?
Lincoln offers some accessible attractions. The Lincoln Tank Memorial Sculpture is noted as wheelchair accessible. While some historic areas like Steep Hill can be challenging due to cobbles, many modern facilities and parts of the city centre are designed for easier access. It's advisable to check specific venue accessibility in advance.
What is the best time of year to visit attractions in Lincoln?
Lincoln is enjoyable year-round, but the spring and summer months (April to September) generally offer the most pleasant weather for exploring outdoor attractions and walking trails. During these seasons, you can fully appreciate the natural beauty of places like Hartsholme Park and the waterways. The city also hosts various events during warmer months.
Are there any waterways or canals to explore in Lincoln?
Yes, Lincoln is defined by its waterways. The Brayford Pool is England's oldest inland harbour, a hub for watercraft and waterside activities. The Fossdyke Navigation, a Roman-built canal, offers scenic paths for walking and cycling, connecting Lincoln to the River Trent.
What are some short day trips I can take from Lincoln?
Lincoln serves as a great base for short day trips. You can explore nearby villages along the Fossdyke Navigation, such as Saxilby. The surrounding countryside offers numerous walking and cycling routes, providing a change of scenery just a short distance from the city. Consider exploring the full length of the Water Rail Way for a longer excursion.
Where can I experience Lincoln's Roman heritage?
Lincoln has a significant Roman past. The Brayford Pool was originally a Roman port, connected to the River Trent by the Foss Dyke, a Roman-built canal. While much of the Roman city lies beneath modern Lincoln, you can still see remnants like the Newport Arch, the only Roman arch in the UK still used by traffic, and explore the city's layout which retains its Roman origins.
Are there cycling routes available near Lincoln's attractions?
Certainly. The Fossdyke Navigation offers a popular cycle path, and the Water Rail Way (NCN Route 1) is another excellent option for cyclists, providing flat, traffic-free routes. For more adventurous riders, there are gravel biking routes available, such as the 'Fossdyke Navigation – The Pyewipe Inn loop'. You can find detailed routes in the Gravel biking around Lincoln guide.
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Most popular attractions around Lincoln
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