History of Lincoln Castle
Lincoln Castle was built shortly after the Norman conquest of England. Like many castles constructed by William the Conqueror, it was designed to establish Norman control over a newly conquered region.
The castle was built on the site of a former Roman fortress, using stone from Roman buildings that once stood in the city.
Throughout its history the castle has served many purposes:
- Royal fortress
- Medieval courthouse
- Victorian prison
- Modern heritage attraction
Today it is managed by Lincolnshire County Council and is open to visitors throughout the year.
The Magna Carta at Lincoln Castle
Lincoln Castle is home to one of the four surviving original copies of the Magna Carta.
The Magna Carta was sealed in 1215 by King John and is widely regarded as one of the most important documents in the development of democracy and the rule of law.
The document is displayed in a specially designed underground vault within the castle grounds alongside the Charter of the Forest, another key medieval document that protected common rights.
Walking the Medieval Walls
One of the highlights of visiting Lincoln Castle is the complete wall walk, which allows visitors to walk around the entire medieval defensive wall.
The wall walk provides some of the best views in Lincoln, including spectacular views of Lincoln Cathedral and the surrounding countryside.
At around 900 metres long, the wall walk is one of the only fully accessible castle wall walks in England.
The Victorian Prison
Inside the castle grounds you can explore a preserved Victorian prison, which operated from the 19th century until 1878.
The prison is famous for its separate system, where prisoners were kept isolated from each other to encourage reflection and reform.
Visitors can walk through restored prison cells and see the dramatic prison chapel where prisoners were separated by high wooden partitions so they could not see one another.
Explore Lincoln Castle
Norman history, the Magna Carta, medieval walls and Victorian prison.
Visiting Lincoln Castle
Lincoln Castle is located in the historic Cathedral Quarter of Lincoln, Lincolnshire and is one of the highlights featured on our things to do in Lincoln guide.
Highlights of a visit include:
- Walking the medieval walls
- Seeing the Magna Carta
- Exploring the Victorian prison
- Enjoying views of Lincoln Cathedral
- Visiting exhibitions and seasonal events
The castle also hosts regular festivals, outdoor cinema events and historical reenactments during the summer months.
Staying in Lincoln
Many visitors choose to stay in Lincoln for a weekend in order to explore the cathedral and the surrounding historic attractions at a relaxed pace.
Tennyson Court offers modern self-catering apartments located close to Lincoln city centre, providing comfortable accommodation for visitors exploring the city’s historic landmarks.
Our apartments provide:
- fully equipped kitchens
- spacious living areas
- convenient access to Lincoln’s attractions
making them an ideal base for discovering Lincoln Cathedral and the wider city.
Tennyson Court Apartments in Lincoln, Lincolnshire
Enjoy secure parking, easy access to uphill Lincoln, the shopping area and Brayford Pool - ideal for short stays and weekend breaks.
All our linen is high quality cotton, washed and steam pressed in a commercial laundry to ensure fresh, crisp sheets, pillow cases and duvets, along with lovely soft towels.
For reservations longer than 7 days, cleaning is provided free every 7 days, including fresh linen and towels.
Planning a weekend break in Lincoln? Choose from a luxurious retreat with marble underfloor heating and mood lighting, or larger cottages for families and groups. With secure on-site parking and a short walk to historic uphill Lincoln, shopping and Brayford Pool, it's easy to explore the city.
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Self Catering Accommodation Across the UK
Self catering accommodation has become increasingly popular across the UK as travellers look for more space, flexibility and privacy than traditional hotel rooms can offer. From countryside cottages and coastal apartments to city stays like Tennyson Court in Lincoln, self-contained accommodation allows visitors to enjoy their destination at their own pace.
Short stay apartments are particularly popular for weekend breaks, university visits, business travel and UK staycations. Guests benefit from private kitchens, comfortable living areas and the freedom to explore local restaurants, historic attractions and surrounding countryside.
Located in the historic cathedral city of Lincoln, Tennyson Court provides a convenient base for exploring Lincolnshire and the wider East Midlands while enjoying the comfort of a fully equipped self catering apartment.