It is the only castle in England to feature two mottes within its fortifications.
The onsite Victorian Prison is one of the only remaining examples of a 'separate system' prison in the world.
The Magna Carta displayed here is one of only four surviving originals from 1215.
The castle walls were used as a public gallows site for executions until the mid-19th century.
The prison chapel was designed to ensure prisoners could see the minister but never see each other.
The site includes remnants of a Roman wall integrated into the later Norman stone structure.
Lincoln Castle is one of only two places in the world where original 1215 Magna Carta and Charter of the Forest manuscripts are displayed together. Built by William the Conqueror in 1068, the fortress features a rare double-motte design unique among English castles. The medieval wall walk offers a full circuit of the perimeter, providing elevated views over Lincoln Cathedral and the surrounding city. Within the walls sits the Victorian Prison, which utilizes a rare 'separate system' chapel design where prisoners sat in individual high-sided stalls. The Lucy Tower, or Observatory Tower, serves as the main keep and contains an exhibition detailing the castle's military history. The site remains fully operational as a heritage attraction, featuring extensive archeological remains unearthed during recent restoration projects. It functions as both a defensive fortification and a former judicial site, having held both a prison and a law court.
From the top of the Lucy Tower looking east toward the twin spires of Lincoln Cathedral.
Walk the entire perimeter of the medieval walls to get the best perspective on the fortress layout.
Visit the Victorian Prison vault to see the collection of historical prison records and artifacts.
Check the event calendar for seasonal falconry displays or medieval re-enactment weekends.
Attempting to walk the walls if you have a fear of heights, as the paths are narrow and open; missing the Magna Carta vault which requires a separate timed entry.
Respect the solemnity of the Victorian Prison chapel area; wear sensible, flat-soled footwear for navigating uneven stone stairs on the wall walk.
