Christmas shopping doesn’t have to be a chore - especially in Lincoln. With a fantastic range of both high street and independent retailers, you’re sure to find everything you need.
If you don’t fancy venturing out on a busy Saturday, we’ve got good news…Late-night shopping in Lincoln is back! Starting from Thursday 23 November, select stores across the city centre will be staying open until 8pm, giving you even more time to shop.
During your visit, take time to explore Lincoln’s beautiful Christmas lights, which will also be illuminating the city from 23 November. With sparkling decorations and displays at every turn, the festive spirit will be in full flow - making your shopping experience even more enjoyable!
You can expect some extra special surprises this year, as we welcome some brand new Christmas lights to the city. Set to dazzle visitors from Newport Arch all the way down to St Mark’s Street, these new lights will see Lincoln illuminated like never before. Look out for the new fairy light display within Exchequer Gate Arch and the illuminated comet in City Square!
Don’t forget - as many of Lincoln’s restaurants and cafes will also be open late, there’ll be plenty of chances to take a break from your shopping list. Why not book a table at your favourite place, or try somewhere new? Christmas menus will be on offer across the city, full of winter warmers and cosy comfort food. Thor’s Tipi Bar will also be returning to the Cornhill Quarter this year, if you fancy a festive tipple by a roaring fire.
Christmas Shopping in Lincoln
Whether you’re looking for a cheeseboard or a chessboard, you’re sure to find it in Lincoln. Small enough to explore with ease, but big enough to incorporate all your favourite brands, this unique city is the perfect Christmas shopping destination.
If you’re looking for something special, make the Cathedral Quarter your first stop. You will discover a wonderful array of independent shops here, all packed with wonderful gift ideas. If big-name brands are your go-to, head straight to the city centre. You can choose the perfect party outfit in the stylish Cornhill Quarter, where you’ll discover luxury clothing stores galore. For homeware, cosmetics and everything in between, you’ll find some of your favourite retailers along the High Street, and inside the Waterside Shopping Centre.
For great parking, and even more opportunities to shop, visit St Marks Shopping Centre. This outdoor retail park will also be hosting a variety of Christmas activities and events throughout December.
As well as having an eclectic variety of retailers, Lincoln also has a thriving market scene – especially during the festive season. You will find different markets taking place every week in Castle Square, as well as pop-up events in the city centre. To keep up-to-date with what’s on this Christmas in Lincoln, visit our events page.
Late-night shopping in Lincoln City Centre
Selected shops in the city centre will be opening until 8pm on the following dates:
- Thursday 23 November (Christmas light switch-on)
- Thursday 30 November
- Thursday 7 December
- Thursday 14 December
- Thursday 21 December
Free parking in Lincoln City Centre
To add to the festivities, visitors can also enjoy free parking in Lincoln during late-night shopping hours. There will be free parking available from 4.00pm – 9.30pm at Lincoln Central Car Park and when using the PayByPhone app at other City of Lincoln Council car parks.
- Central Car Park (LN5 7BP)
Located just a few minutes from the city centre, the Central Car Park in Lincoln has just over 1000 spaces. To take advantage of free parking, just use the ticket machines as usual when returning to your car. You will only have to pay the standard rate if you park past 9.30pm.
- City of Lincoln Council Car Parks
Use the Pay by Phone app and you can park for free at selected City of Lincoln Council car parks - pre-register on the app before you arrive and you can make the process even easier! Please note, if you use a Pay & Display machine instead of the app, you will be charged for parking.
Car parks included in this offer are: Lucy Tower Street, Broadgate, Tentercroft Street, Motherby Lane, Flaxengate, City Hall Orchard Street, Beaumont Fee, Rosemary Lane, Chaplin Street, University Boulevard.
Terms and conditions apply. For more information on parking in Lincoln, click here.
Late-night shopping in the Cathedral Quarter
In the run up to Christmas, a number of independent shops in the uphill area of Lincoln will also be opening late on selected dates:
- Thursday 30 November
- Thursday 7 December
- Friday 8 December
- Thursday 14 December
To add to the festivities on the 7 December, the Lion & Snake in the Bailgate will also be open for shoppers to enjoy a mulled wine and some carol singing - the perfect way to end your shopping experience!
Free parking in the Cathedral Quarter
To help you make the most of the extended shopping hours uphill, you will also be able to enjoy free parking in the Cathedral Quarter on the 7th and 8th December.
Free parking will be available from 4.00pm - 9.30pm, when using the PayByPhone app in City Council car parks.
Car parks included in this offer are: Westgate 1,2,3, St Pauls, Castle Hill, The Lawn and Langworthgate.
Shop Mobility & Dial-a-Ride
ShopMobility, which is located in the Central Carpark on Melville Street, provide powered wheelchairs and scooters as well as manual equipment,
wheelchairs, walkers, and sticks for hire.
To allow people to take advantage of late-night shopping, ShopMobility will be offering extended hours for equipment hire. This will be offered on a ‘appointment only’ basis. All equipment must be pre-booked by the end of the previous working day. For more information, call 01522 544983 or visit the Lincoln Dial-a-Ride website.
