Lincoln Cathedral sits at the top of Steep Hill, above the city centre of Lincoln. Building began in 1072 under the Normans, and for more than 200 years it was the tallest building in the world, until its central spire collapsed in the mid-16th century. The main draws are the guided floor tour, which is included with admission, the roof and tower tours with views over the city, and the stained glass, including the rose windows known as the Dean's Eye and the Bishop's Eye. Look for the Lincoln Imp among the carvings. Admission is paid once and covers return visits for a year.
Building history
Work on the cathedral began in 1072, when the Norman bishop Remigius started the first church on the hill. The early building suffered fire and earthquake damage, and much of it was rebuilt in the 12th and 13th centuries in the Gothic style.
The central spire, completed in 1311, made the cathedral the tallest building in the world for more than 200 years. When the spire collapsed in the mid-16th century, it was never rebuilt. Three of the four original towers remain, and the west front, with its twin towers, is the most striking view of the building from outside.
The cathedral is a working church, and services continue alongside the visits.
Inside the cathedral
The nave is vast, with columns of limestone and marble and a vaulted roof. The stained glass windows give the interior its colour, and the carved stone and wood fill the choir and chapels.
The two great rose windows are the Dean's Eye on the north side, with Early English tracery in concentric circles, and the Bishop's Eye on the south side, which has some of the largest curvilinear tracery of any medieval building.
The cathedral also has two libraries: the Medieval Library and the Sir Christopher Wren Library. Both are open to cathedral visitors, and they hold regularly changing exhibitions. Group visits can be arranged with library staff. Ancient graffiti scratched into the stone can be found on a graffiti tour.
The Lincoln Imp
The Lincoln Imp is a legendary 14th-century creature carved into the stonework inside and outside the cathedral. Look for the small, mischievous figure among the carvings as you walk around. The Imp is now a symbol of the city, and the local football club, Lincoln City FC, uses it on its badge.
Tours, the roof and the tower
The guided floor tour is included in the admission price, and guides share the history of the building and the people connected with it. Guided tours run on most days.
Roof and tower tours are sold separately and take visitors higher up the building. From the top you can see the city, the surrounding countryside and the close-up detail of the carved stonework. Book these in advance, as the site recommends.
Music and services
The composer William Byrd was organist at the cathedral in the 16th century. He was a Catholic at a time when Catholics risked persecution, and some of his most admired music is written for Catholic worship. Choral services at the cathedral are open to visitors, and the congregation welcomes people of any belief to attend and share in its practices.
Around the cathedral
The grounds include wildflower beds and a lawn, and peregrine falcons nest on the building. The Exchequer Gate, built in the 14th century, stands in front of the cathedral and frames a view of the towers. Nearby are the Medieval Bishop's Palace walls, Steep Hill and the cobbled streets of the Cathedral Quarter. Lincoln Castle is a short walk away.
FAQ
Is there an entry fee?
Yes, admission is charged. The guided floor tour is included in the admission price, and once you have paid, you can return free for the next 12 months.
Do I need to book in advance?
The site recommends getting tickets in advance. Roof and tower tours should also be booked ahead.
Is Lincoln Cathedral wheelchair accessible?
Yes. The entrance, the restroom and the parking area are wheelchair accessible.
Can I climb the tower?
Yes, tower tours are offered. Roof tours are also available, and both should be booked in advance.
Are dogs allowed inside?
Yes, dogs are welcome inside the cathedral with their owners.
