LINCOLN CASTLE & BRAYFORD
Pair nearly a thousand years of castle history with an easy waterside stroll beside Brayford Pool for a varied Lincoln day out.
PLAN YOUR VISIT →ALL NEARBY DAYS OUT →
ONE CITY, TWO VERY DIFFERENT EXPERIENCES
MEDIEVAL WALLS AND A RELAXED WATERFRONT
Lincoln Castle was founded by William the Conqueror in 1068. Its highlights include the Medieval Wall Walk, Victorian Prison and the 1215 Magna Carta, displayed with the Charter of the Forest.
Downhill, Brayford Pool is described by Visit Lincoln as England’s oldest inland harbour. Today it is a lively waterfront edged by restaurants, hotels and the University of Lincoln — an easy place to slow the pace after the castle.
MAKE A FULL LINCOLN DAY OF IT
WALK THE CASTLE WALLS
See the city from the Medieval Wall Walk and explore the castle grounds, prison and exhibitions.
DISCOVER THE HISTORY
The castle safeguards an original 1215 Magna Carta and tells stories from Norman conquest to Victorian justice.
STROLL THE BRAYFORD
Follow the waterside, watch the swans and choose from cafés and restaurants around the Pool.
WHY PEOPLE LOVE IT
- Two contrasting experiences can fit comfortably into one day.
- The castle gives outstanding views across Lincoln.
- The Brayford adds a relaxed, accessible finish with food and drink nearby.
PLAN YOUR VISIT
Lincoln Castle & Brayford Waterfront
Lincoln Castle, Castle Square, Lincoln, LN1 3AA.
Brayford Waterfront is in Lincoln city centre.
Telephone: 01522 782019 (Lincoln Castle)
Opening: Lincoln Castle: 10am–5pm from 1 April to 24 October 2026; 10am–4pm from 25 October 2026 to 25 March 2027. The Brayford is an open public waterfront.
Before travelling: Check castle admission, last entry and any temporary Wall Walk restrictions. Plan parking or public transport before entering central Lincoln.
Access: The castle grounds, prison and Magna Carta vault have accessible routes; the Medieval Wall Walk has steps and is not wheelchair accessible. The Brayford’s main waterfront paths are largely level.
CHECK OFFICIAL INFORMATION →GET DIRECTIONS →Practical details checked against the attraction’s official website. Hours, prices and event access can change.