Top 10 Things to do in Lincoln, United Kingdom (UK)

'I have always held and proposed against all comers to maintain that the Cathedral of Lincoln is out and out the most precious piece of architecture in the British Isles' - John Ruskin Lincoln Cathedral was for almost 300 years the tallest building in the world. Yet, in spite of its size, it is filled with intricate detail. Remigius, the Bishop who built the earliest part of the Cathedral in the Norman style, came over with William the Conqueror. Later, in Lincoln Cathedral the architects of the gothic style perhaps reached the pinnacle of their art. Everywhere you look there is the most intricate detail, walls, roofs elaborated by the finest carving. From the time of the death of the saintly Bishop of Lincoln, Hugh of Avalon who so lovingly restored the Cathedral after an earthquake in the 12th century, thousands of people have come on pilgrimage to this place of pilgrimage, holiness and prayer. In 1215 another Hugh Bishop of Lincoln, Hugh of Wells, was present at Runnymede along with Lincolnshire's Cardinal Archbishop Stephen Langton. When King John agreed to the barons' demands, copies of Magna Carta were made and distributed to sheriffs and cathedrals throughout England. Lincoln Cathedral's Magna Carta is one of only four from the original distribution still in existence. It is the only one to bear the name of its city.

The Guildhall is the "official home" of the Mayor and occupies the whole of the second floor of the Stonebow. Access to this historic building is via the large double oak doors on the East Wing of the building on Saltergate and is of 15th and 16th century. On a visit you can walk through the Council Chamber, sit in the Mayor's chair and hear some of the tales of years gone by. The tour includes the old debtors prison which now houses some of the finest regalia in England beneath. Whilst in the Civic Insignia room, view the Royal Sword given to the City by Richard II, and the Mayor's Mace dated 1660, originally a defensive fighting weapon, but now carried before the Mayor on ceremonial occasions. See several chains of office, as well as the unique Mayor's posy ring which is only worn on two occasions: when being married to the City at the Annual Meeting and on the Mayor's "official" birthday a custom dating back to 1852. Read the many Royal Charters, the oldest granted by King Henry II (circa 1157) and the latest given in 1974 by Queen Elizabeth II. Also, the Guildhall's impressive Council Chamber is still used today for Full Council meetings. The Guildhall allows you to step back in time and view it's unique and historic building, as well as many significant items on display.

Bransby Horses is one of the UK’s largest equine welfare charities in the UK, completely funded by the generosity of public donations. We are dedicated to improving the lives of horses, ponies, donkeys and mules since we were established in 1968. We have rescued, rehabilitated, re-homed or retired thousands of equines and we are working harder than ever to continue making a positive difference to equines wherever and whenever we can. Between our two sites in Lincolnshire and Herefordshire we have over 400 animals currently in our care, which keeps us constantly busy. Bransby Horses Visitor Centre near Lincoln is open to the public. A great day out for all the family with plenty to see and do.

The RAF Scampton Heritage Centre is housed inside the Annexe offices of the former 617 Sqn Hangar which is an English Heritage Grade II listed building. After a period of extensive renovation work carried out by volunteers, the Heritage Centre re-opened in June 2012. There is now the opportunity to see Wg Cdr Guy Gibsons office as it would have looked like in 1943. The Heritage Centre is open to the public by appointment only. To arrange a visit, please send an email, or use the contact us page on our website. We require a minimum of 14 days notice to complete security screening. We can accommodate groups large or small, including school trips.

Three great attractions. One great day out. Medieval Wall Walk. Victorian Prison. Magna Carta. Enjoy spectacular views across Lincolnshire from our completed Medieval Wall Walk. Visit the David P.J. Ross Magna Carta Vault and see one of only four remaining original Magna Carta along side the Charter of the Forest. Immerse yourself in the lives of prisoners and their daily routines in the Victorian Prison and see the unique separate system chapel. 1000 years of history - where it happened.