Discover Lincoln

A Fantastic Place to Study

One of the world’s great historic cities, Lincoln is renowned for its fusion of old and new, seamlessly blending medieval heritage with modern city living. Lincoln is a smaller city with a friendly community feel but it still offers a rich variety of attractions, activities, and amenities to keep you entertained throughout your time here, from socialising, sports, and shopping, to culture, castles, and countryside pursuits.

Historic Lincoln

Step back in time and take a trip up the aptly named Steep Hill, which is the gateway to the Lincoln’s historic Cathedral Quarter and Bailgate area, where character-filled streets are lined with quirky shops and enticing eateries. The area is home to Lincoln Cathedral, one of Europe’s most celebrated medieval buildings and finest examples of Gothic architecture, and Lincoln Castle, where you can walk in the footsteps of kings and see one of only four surviving originals of the 1215 Magna Carta.

Lincoln Cathedral and Castle

Watching over the city, Lincoln Cathedral is one of Europe’s most celebrated medieval buildings and was once the tallest building in the world. The Cathedral also provides the stunning setting for the University’s graduation ceremonies. Lincoln Castle is home to one of only four surviving originals of the 1215 Magna Carta and the only place in the world this landmark document can be seen side-by-side with the related Charter of the Forest.

Lincoln Cathedral seen from Castle Square

At Your Leisure

Just a short walk away from campus, you’ll find a range of restaurants, cafes, and bars that overlook the beautiful marina area, while in the centre of Lincoln, you’ll be spoilt for choice with the eclectic mix of pubs and entertainment venues that are available. Lincoln offers a great shopping experience – its high streets and side streets, including the newly developed Cornhill Quarter, are home to a range of independent and boutique stores alongside national brands and chains. Lincoln has also been ranked in the top 10 most affordable university cities in the UK in the NatWest Student Living Index 2023.

Arts and Culture

There is a lively programme of theatre and festival events in Lincoln, and the city also boasts a range of museums and public art galleries. The University’s theatre and art gallery, both located on our Brayford Pool Campus, provide a home for new contemporary performances, featuring the next generation of artists and showcasing new artistic ideas. Our digital audio platform serves both University and city communities, while the new Barbican Creative Hub, located across from Lincoln Central Railway Station, is giving artists and creatives new opportunities to connect with each other and the public.

Comedy and Entertainment

The Engine Shed play host to a range of activities, live music, award-winning club events, and comedy throughout the year, while Lincoln Arts Centre is part of a busy arts community, which hosts professional performances and student production. The city is also home to the New Theatre Royal and The Drill, offering a packed calendar of theatre, music, and comedy to enjoy.

A view of the LPAC auditorium

Events in the City

Discover more about upcoming events in the city — from classic car rallies and the annual Steampunk festival, to guided walks and food markets, there's always something happening in our vibrant city.

Upcoming Events
The Luminarium Qodlumin event

The Great Outdoors

You don’t have to travel far to experience the great outdoors. Lincoln itself is home to several parks and beautiful waterways and is surrounded by picturesque countryside and stunning landscapes, ready to be explored through country walks and cycling trips.

Perfect Days Out

Lincolnshire also offers plenty of options for great days out. From country parks, nature reserves, and historic houses, such as nearby Doddington Hall, to aviation heritage, numerous festivals, and visits to the popular seaside towns, there’s always plenty to do in one of England’s largest counties.

Donkeys on Skegness beach

Local Sport

Lincoln is also home to a wide range of sports and leisure facilities, including cinemas, gyms, swimming pools, and cycle routes. Alternatively, you can watch one of our local sports teams in action or catch one of the many live sporting events that take place in and around the city.

Lincoln City players celebrating