Historic Lincoln is a gem of a destination for anyone wanting to explore this part of Eastern England. However it's quite small which in turn means slightly limited options when it comes to looking for accommodation. We widened the scope a little and our pick of the best places to stay in Lincoln includes some great properties in the centre of town as well as rural B&Bs and a luxury country house hotel just 2 miles away.

Some of our Lincoln collections:

• Lincoln Hotels with Parking

Lincoln is an old city. The fort built here by the Romans was on top of an Iron Age settlement, and there’s proof that the Saxons and Danes lived here too. The castle built by William 1 dates back to 1068, and it has one of the four remaining copies of the Magna Carta. The other major site is Lincoln Cathedral, a glorious piece of architecture, built in the early Gothic style. When it was completed in 1311, it was the tallest building in the world — at 160 metres (the tallest part of the building was the central spire, which, unfortunately no longer exists).

In addition to the castle and the cathedral, Lincoln’s treasures include the medieval Bishop’s Palace, the Museum of Lincolnshire Life, International Bomber Command Centre, and the Whisby Nature Reserve and Hartsholme Country Park. Lincoln’s German-style Christmas market makes December a busy time, as does the country fair in June.

Lincoln is a relatively small city, easily explorable on foot. Its pretty cobbled streets in the cathedral quarter are lined with independent shops, cafes and pubs plus there's a buzzing monthly market which not only features the best local produce but also antiques and handicrafts. It's the type of destination that's popular year round, so if you want to guarantee your room in one of the best places to stay in Lincoln, do your research and book well ahead.

The Best Places to Stay in Lincoln

For a Central Spot

• The Old Palace Lodge is a small, historic hotel in a fabulous central position, in the shadow of Lincoln Cathedral. Some of its 16 rooms and suites have been converted from a former church, and these have stone-mullioned Gothic windows, or original beams and apex ceilings. All of the rooms have different original features, but are decorated in classic style. We like those with the grand windows, which also have roll-top baths. Breakfast is served in the apse of the church, and while there’s no restaurant, you are very close to a good selection. Surprisingly peaceful — aside from the bells!
• The Castle Hotel is a townhouse hotel on cobbled Steep Hill, close to the old city walls, the cathedral, and to the castle. The 18 rooms and suites are surprisingly contemporarily decorated, with a colour scheme of neutrals and creams. There are a couple of self contained apartments in the courtyard, which are well set up for families, and there’s a small bar, and chic bistro. Stylish and central.
• The Rest is also on Steep Hill, a charmingly converted Baptist church hall, now offering ten guest rooms — some with private terraces overlooking the Bishop’s Palace and the city. There’s no restaurant, but they do have a coffee house and bar, where they serve an excellent breakfast and snacks and drinks all day.

For a Special Occasion

• Washingborough Hall is a Georgian mansion in miniature, just two miles outside Lincoln’s city centre, with 20 rooms and suites. Interiors are country house hotel style, complete with William Morris patterns and wood-panelled walls. The rooms in the main house are more traditional, with antiques and garden views, and those in the converted former coach house are more contemporary — some have private patios. There's a fine dining restaurant and a low-key lounge bar.

For a Rural Retreat

• The Bridleway B&B offers a chance to stay close to Lincoln, while also staying in the country. Converted from a farmhouse just a few miles to the north of town, these four B&B rooms have been converted from farm outbuildings, and have been simply and tastefully decorated with muted colours and comfortable details. Breakfast is served in a lovely conservatory room.

Prefer a Private Apartment or Cottage?

• If you'd prefer the privacy of a self-catering option then browse through the wide variety available online with our partner, Booking.com.

Travel Information

• Lincoln’s closest airport is Humberside Airport, which is about 40 minutes away by car, or by train. East Midlands Airport is next closest, about an hour away by car or taxi. If you’re coming from London, trains leave from Kings Cross or St. Pancras, and direct trains take around an hour and 45 minutes.
• If you want to hire a car we recommend you visit our online partner, Rentalcars.
• Lincoln gets the most visitors during the late spring and early summer months. Summers are mild and warm, and the winters cool, and seeing as this is the UK we’re talking about, we advise you to pack your wet weather gear at all times. But otherwise Lincoln is a city break destination that can be appreciated year round. Lincoln’s cultural and festival calendar has plenty in it, but the big ones are the Lincolnshire Show — held in June; the Lincolnshire Food and Gift Fair — held in November; and the Lincoln Christmas Market — held in December.

Still not sure where to stay?

• Expand your search to include all the best places to stay in Lincolnshire
• Expand your search by the type of accommodation you’re looking for and consider the best pubs with rooms in Lincolnshire
• Consider one of Lincoln’s neighbours: Stamford for example
• Or you could contact one of our friendly Gurus for personalised advice.