Accommodation near Lincoln Cathedral

Lincoln cathedral is open from 7.15am to 6pm Monday to Saturday, and from 7.15am to 5pm on a Sunday. Access may be restricted if there is a special event in the cathedral, so check the website before visiiting. There are separate, shorter hours for the coffee shop, library and treasury.

A guided tour is included in the entrance fee, with volunteer guides leading tours three times a day in peak months. Visitors over the age of 14 can also book places on special tours of the cathedral tower and roof. There is no charge for these tours but spaces are limited and booking in advance is essential.

It's worth taking a tour so the experts can point out the most important features of the cathedral but don't miss the famous Lincoln Imp statue at the top of one of the pillars in the nave. Once you have spotted him look down to your feet, and try to see the fossils in the limestone floor. Finally, take the time to see Lincoln Cathedral's copy of the Magna Carta.

The castle is located just across the road from the cathedral and joint tickets allow you to explore both. Climb the castle walls for some of the best views across the city and learn about its history as a prison and the recent archaeological digs in the area.

One of Lincoln's newest attractions is the Bomber Command Centre, detailing the lives of the men who flew missions to the continent during WW2. There is a small charge to enter the exhibition but the gardens are free.

Doddington is one of England's most famous Elizabethan mansions and visitors can explore the interiors, artwork and furnishings. There are five acres of gardens to explore and a coffee shop for afternoon tea.