First built in 1072, Lincoln Cathedral is one of Europe’s finest Gothic buildings.
Once described by Victorian writer John Ruskin as "out and out the most precious piece of architecture in the British Isles and roughly speaking worth any two other cathedrals we have", Lincoln Cathedral is not to be missed.
With the Norman invasion of Britain in the 11th century, William the Conqueror commissioned Remigius de Fécamp, the first Bishop of Lincoln, to build Lincoln Cathedral. Foundations were laid in 1072 and on May 9th, 1092, it was consecrated, two days after the death of Bishop Remigius.
At the time of its consecration, Lincoln Cathedral was the head of the largest diocese in England - extending from the Humber to the Thames.
After fires and earthquakes had demanded rebuilding of some of the cathedral, it took on a Gothic style of architecture. When the central spire was eventually raised in 1311, it became the tallest building in the world: taking the mantle from the Great Pyramid of Giza. This lasted until 1549 when the spire collapsed in a storm.
Despite its size, the cathedral is filled with intricate detail. In Lincoln Cathedral the architects of the Gothic style perhaps reached the pinnacle of their art; it is an absolute must-see for anyone visiting Lincoln.
There is something for everyone to see at Lincoln Cathedral and children love seeking out the funny carvings - in particular the famous Lincoln Imp!
Tours of Lincoln Cathedral
Guided floor tours of Lincoln Cathedral are included with admission. If you're visiting for the first time, a tour with one of the cathedral's expert guides is one of the best ways to explore this magnificent building. To enhance your visit even further, you can also book one of the cathedral's specialist tours. Running from Monday - Saturday, each different tour costs £7.50 per person and lasts up to 90 minutes. Private tours for large groups are also available (price on application).
- Floor Tour - Floor tours run throughout the year and are suitable for all. They usually last around an hour and cover all aspects of the Cathedral: from architecture, history with a few interesting stories thrown in along the way.
- Roof Tour - Explore the roof space of Lincoln Cathedral with views across the City. Please note: A general level of fitness is required to climb the steep staircases.
- Tower Tour - Climb more than 300 steps to reach the top of the Central Tower of Lincoln Cathedral and take in the fantastic 360 degree views of the city, county and beyond.
- Outdoor tour - Take a closer look at the stunning architecture and fantastic carvings that adorn the exterior of Lincoln Cathedral. Lean more about the long history of this iconic building.
- Historic Graffiti Tour - Join the Medieval Graffiti Tour to gain an insight into the hopes, fears and beliefs of the ordinary people who have gone before us.
- Symbolism Tours - Discover the hidden meanings and symbols of the stone carvings and stained glass, both inside and outside the Cathedral.
- Stained Glass Tours - Learn more about the meaning of the cathedral's stained glass window designs, the history of the panels and how these incredible works of art are created and maintained.
Magna Carta
Lincoln Cathedral owns one of only four surviving copies of Magna Carta, signed in 1215 and brought back to Lincoln by the Bishop of Lincoln, which is now on loan to and resides in, Lincoln Castle.
There is a facsimile of Magna Carta that can be viewed inside the Cathedral, near the cloisters, with detailed interpretation.
Alfred, Lord Tennyson
Alfred Tennyson (1809-1892) was born and grew up in Lincolnshire. He was the most famous poet of Victorian Britain and was Poet Laureate between 1850 and 1892.
A memorial statue to him can be found on the East Green of Lincoln Cathedral bearing the words of his poem Flower in the Crannied Wall.
The Lincoln Imp
The Lincoln Imp, turned to stone by an angel for misbehaviour according to legend, can be found in Lincoln Cathedral. A spotlight is available to help you find it if you are struggling! Find out more on the Legend of the Lincoln Imp page.
Medieval and Wren Libraries
Hidden above the Lincoln Cathedral cloisters are the Medieval Library and Wren Libraries, a 15th-century collection of books in "the most beautiful room in England".
Access to both libraries is included within entry to the Cathedral. Opening times vary through the year, guided tours are also available for a small fee.
Please note the Medieval and Wren Libraries are currently closed for repairs.
Airmen's Chapel
The Airmen's Chapel of St Michael sits within Lincoln Cathedral and houses three Books of Remembrance containing the names of 25,611 men who flew from Lincoln RAF bases in the Second World War and never returned.
The Chapel's four windows are decorative memorials to Bomber Command, Flying Training Command, the Royal Rhodesian Air Force and Royal New Zealand Air Force.
The Cathedral has a poignant link to Bomber Command: it was a sign on the horizon to crews returning to Lincolnshire RAF bases that they had made it home safely.
Duty Chaplains
Duty Chaplains are available to respond to your pastoral needs, whether you seek specific counsel or find your visit prompts questions that surface unexpectedly. They are also happy to pray with anyone who asks for this.
Accessibility
Around 85% of the cathedral is accessible by wheelchair, including entrance, hearing loops are installed throughout and assistance dogs are welcome.
See full accessibility details on the Lincoln Cathedral Access Statement.
Family visits
Explorer Packs are available for children up to the age of 10 years - containing binoculars, a torch & clipboard with a list of fun things to look for! The packs are at no additional cost to entry.
Guided tours of the Cathedral are suitable for children too.
Lincoln Cathedral Services
All visitors are welcome at the Cathedral's services, which are held daily. If you would like to attend a service, you can find the daily pattern of worship here.
To find more information on future events at Lincoln Cathedral click here.
Header image photographed by Andrew Scott.
Additional Information
- Guided tours available
- Dogs welcome throughout
Rainy Days
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