Why Lincoln sparkles at Christmas

Published on 2021-11-30 / By Washingborough Hall Hotel

Gorgeous at any time of year, at Christmas Lincoln truly delights. A towering cathedral, a floodlit castle, festive market stalls, carols by candlelight, pop up bars and enchanting lights trails. The only way to get more Christmassy would be to pop into Santa’s workshop to help the elves. And as the North Pole is cold, far away and dark, why not delve into our best things to do in Lincoln this Christmas instead.

Christmas Markets (in and around Lincoln)

We’re a teeny bit biased, but we think Lincoln has Britain’s best Christmas market. Around 280 stalls, glittering lights, wafts of mulled wine, festive tunes and a ginormous big wheel all backed by beautifully lit Lincoln Cathedral and Lincoln Castle. Stroll between the two on the cobbled streets, browse for unique gifts, enjoy the music and sample fine local food and drink. Perhaps a Lincolnshire sausages or some Poacher cheese – this is a Christmas shopping experience you can truly enjoy.

Candle-lit carol services

Once you’ve got something pretty nifty for all the family, head into Lincoln Cathedral. Entry is free while the market’s on and the cafe will be serving mulled wine and mince pies. Look out for their seasonal services, including the famous Carols By Candlelight. This is your chance to sing along with the choir, perhaps letting rip with a descant, or just enjoying the experience of glorious music in a gloriously atmospheric space.

Lincoln Castle

Early-December also brings nocturnal strolls along Lincoln Castle’s Medieval walls. The illuminated wall walk gives you views down onto the Christmas Market and a city lit up in its holiday best – a magical sight. Between December 11th and the 23rd you can enjoy an experience rich in seasonal sparkle. Lincoln Castle Illuminated sees you wandering through walk-through displays and down Christmas tree-lined paths and sipping hot chocolate. It’s as Christmassy as it gets.

Sip festive spirits at Thor’s

While the North Pole might be out, you can get a good dose of Nordic seasonal charm at Thor’s Tipi Bar. The city’s favourite pop up bar brings a blazing log fire, glinting lights, mulled cider and boozy hot chocolate to the Cornhill. Plus a delightful dollop of Viking atmosphere – those trademark wings are everywhere and the slogan is Drink, Feast, Conquer, Repeat

Wreath-making classes

If for you Christmas is all about getting crafty, book in for a Wreath Making Workshop at Hartsholme Country Park. Learn everything from what materials to choose and which design to plump for, to how to make it all stay together and look fabulous. You also go home with a wreath from your front door.

Enchanted, historic Belvoir castle

They pull out the Christmas stops at Belvoir Castle. You might have seen this Regency stately home doubling as Windsor Castle in season 3 of The Crown. This festive season it’s home to a magical illuminated trail that snakes for just under a mile through the gorgeous grounds. Expect talking trees, interactive stepping stones, enchanted woods and lots of jingling tunes. Or if Bridgerton saw you falling in love with frock coats, you can see the castle’s state rooms decked out in elaborate Regency style by award-winning interior designer, Charlotte Lloyd-Webber. You might even pick up some tips for the lounge back home.

festive christmas afternoon tea lincolnshire

Get all festive at Washingborough Hall

Of course, you also need somewhere to stay that matches Lincoln’s superb yuletide cheer. At disarmingly charming Washingborough Hall you’ll find a warm welcome, a beautifully decorated dining room and menus stuffed with creative twists on festive favourites – our pancetta rolled turkey ballotine comes with cranberry, orange and thyme stuffing. Lamb, cod and wild mushrooms make excellent alternative mains. Or opt for a festive afternoon tea. A deliciously decadent affair it features all the usual treats, plus kir royale and a slice of Christmas cake. Washy Hall is also an enchanting place to stay overnight - Lincoln, in all its twinkling, festive, fun-filled glory is only four miles away.