Find the perfect stay near Lincoln Cathedral

Lincoln Cathedral is an enormous stone building that actually spent more than 200 years as the tallest structure on the planet. You can have a go at finding the tiny, mischievous Lincoln Imp hidden high up in the rafters or just enjoy the quiet atmosphere of the cloisters. It is a lovely place to get a feel for the past without any fuss, offering plenty of interesting corners for you to discover.

You will find this massive medieval masterpiece standing proudly on a hill, visible from almost everywhere in the city. It was once the tallest building in the world for over 200 years, and its intricate stonework remains some of the finest in Europe.

Exploring the grounds and planning your visit

You can enter the building throughout the week, typically from 10:00 to 16:00, though these times often change for Sunday services or special events. There is an entry fee to go inside, which helps with the massive cost of looking after the ancient stone. If you want to avoid the biggest crowds, try arriving right when the doors open in the morning.

The site is accessible for those with mobility needs, including ramps and lifts to help you navigate the different floor levels. You should allow at least 2 hours to see everything properly, as there is a lot of ground to cover. Please check the official landmark site for up-to-date information on opening times and ticket availability before you travel.

Discovering the art and architecture

The interior is famous for its "crazy vaults," which are ceilings with ribs that do not meet in the middle as you might expect. Look up to see the Dean’s Eye and the Bishop’s Eye, two massive stained-glass rose windows that face each other across the transept. They have survived for centuries and fill the space with coloured light on sunny days.

One of the most popular things to find is the tiny Lincoln Imp, a small stone carving hidden high up on a pillar. Local legend says a mischievous creature was turned to stone by an angel. If you want to see the city from above, you can join a tower tour, which takes you up 338 steps for a view that stretches across the county.

A look into the past

Construction began in 1072, shortly after the Norman Conquest, and the building has survived earthquakes and fires over the centuries. In 1311, a central spire was added that reached a height of 525 feet, making it taller than the Great Pyramid of Giza at the time. Although that spire collapsed during a storm in 1548, the towers still dominate the skyline today.

One of the original copies of the Magna Carta is housed in the nearby castle, and it is a huge part of the cathedral's story. Walking through the cloisters feels like stepping back hundreds of years, and you can still see the marks left by the medieval stonemasons who carved the walls by hand.

Finding your way around Lincoln Cathedral is easy, and you will find plenty of options to stay nearby. Whether you prefer a quiet historic street or a spot closer to the shops, reaching this massive landmark is straightforward.

Where to stay in the uphill area

The best place to base yourself is the historic Uphill district, specifically around the Bailgate. This area is perfect if you want to be within a 2-minute walk of the cathedral entrance and enjoy a village-like feel with independent shops. You can find charming boutique hotels in medieval buildings or family-friendly guest houses that offer plenty of character. Staying here means you are right in the heart of the old city, where the cobbled streets offer a charming atmosphere for evening strolls. If you are looking for something more budget-friendly, heading down the hill towards the city centre offers modern apartments and larger hotels that are still only a 0.5-mile walk away.

Getting to the cathedral from transport hubs

You can reach the cathedral easily from Lincoln Railway Station, which is located at the bottom of the hill. It takes about 15 minutes to walk up the steep but beautiful Steep Hill, or you can hop on the 'Walk and Ride' bus which drops you just 100 feet from the cathedral doors. If you are arriving by car, there are several car parks within a 5-minute walk, though many have a parking fee and some spaces are reserved for those with limited mobility.

Searching for accommodation near Lincoln Cathedral is effortless with Opodo. We help you filter through various properties to find the perfect match for your budget and style. Pick your perfect hotel today and enjoy your stay in the city.