Lincoln might not be a world-famous tourist destination, however, it is a unique English cathedral city with remarkable beauty and lovely iconic landmarks. During the Christmas period, the city celebrates the festive atmosphere with a number of exciting events, including cathedral concerts, a mini-marathon, traditional Christmas markets, a fabulous light show, and lots more. It goes without saying that the backdrop of all these festivities is, among others, a stunning cathedral of Gothic architecture, along with an 11th-century Norman fortress. The city also features charming cobblestone streets with beautiful vintage shops, galleries, great parks, and historic houses as well. Read on to learn about the most splendid Christmas markets in Lincoln, England, and visit the place for a truly amazing Christmas experience!
Winter in Lincoln
- Lincoln mainly has rainy days in winter, according to Weather Spark, so make sure to bring some waterproof coats! Average daily temperatures hold at a high of 7.2 degrees Celsius (45 degrees Fahrenheit) and a low of 2.2 degrees Celsius (36 degrees Fahrenheit).
Popular tea rooms in Lincoln
Grayz Tea Room: This family-owned establishment is situated in the Cathedral Quarter. I would love to try out their panini and salads!
Bunty’s Tea Room: Situated on Steep Hill, Bunty’s Tea Room oozes vintage charm. They even offer gluten-free and vegan options!
Christmas in Lincoln
Christmas in the city of Lincoln is celebrated with as much pomp as everywhere else in England. Some of the popular Christmas traditions of the city include:
- Lincoln Christmas Lights illuminate most parts of the city each winter. You can expect a dazzling display everywhere from Newport Arch to Tentercroft Street. The switch-on ceremony is usually held in late November, so you have plenty of time to admire the lights! I would for sure be taking some photos if I'm ever in the area during Christmas.
- Santa will be present in the city, so bring along the kids for a memorable time. You can check the tourism website for Lincoln for updated information on where St. Nicholas will be.
Of course, the city also has a few popular Christmas Markets. If you’re new to the custom, or you just need a refresher on the markets, make sure to check out our comprehensive guide.
Christmas markets in Lincoln
1. Lincoln Christmas Maker's Market
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Open All Hours The Lincoln Makers’ Markets are sadly still closed due to the virus, but many of the artists and...
Posted by Lincoln Makers' Market on Thursday, April 16, 2020
This is another Christmas market that also takes place for a short period of time in December, but this one is based on the work of local artists. The market that is situated in St. Martin’s Square is ideal for those who wish to avoid the most crowded markets and also to support the local area. So, here, visitors may find a wide range of products, from woodwork to paintings, and from glass art to different fabrics, showcasing a variety for every pocket and every taste. Support the local artisans with their unique and affordable art and craft.
Lincoln Christmas Maker's Market
Address and dates: For updated locations, dates, and opening hours, please visit the Facebook page for the market.
Website: Lincoln Maker’s Market
Stay close to this market: Budget - Woodcocks, Lincoln by Marston’s Inns; Luxury - The White Hart Hotel Lincoln
Other Christmas events in Lincoln
2. Lincoln Castle Illuminated
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Enjoy the true spirit of Christmas within the medieval walls of the majestic Lincoln Castle. The illuminations are bound to absolutely amaze families and friends. While here, you also have the chance to access the Medieval wall walk from where you can enjoy incredible evening views of the city.
Lincoln Castle Illuminated
Dates: For updated dates and hours, check out the official website for Lincoln Castle Illuminated.
Address: Castle Hill Lincoln, Lincolnshire, LN1 3AA
Stay close to this market: Budget - The Lincoln Hotel; Castle Hotel & Apartments
What guests are saying about their experience:
“Been many times, went for the Xmas illuminations one weekend night before Xmas and although I didn’t pay to walk along the top wall it was well worth going and paying a reduced price just to see the lights around the grounds. Plenty of food and drink options if you needed them but not oversaturated with stalls. Was well worth the visit.” - by Google reviewer, J O’M
3. Christmas at Lincoln Cathedral
A number of delightful concerts and services take place within the imposing Lincoln Cathedral during this festive season. The cathedral itself is a stunning architectural bliss that is certainly worth a visit, but if you happen to be into the Christianity concept, then the one-month program will delight you even more. Among the concerts are Christmas carols, carol services, Evensong, A Ceremony of Carols that also includes an evening candle-lit tour, Christingle service, and other services. There is usually free attendance, except for a few concerts that do have an entry fee.
Christmas at Lincoln Cathedral
Address: Minster Yard, Lincoln, LN2 1PX
Dates: For updated dates and hours, please visit the official website of the event.
Website: Lincoln Cathedral
Stay close to this market: Budget - The Lincoln Hotel; Luxury - The White Hart Hotel Lincoln
What guests are saying about their experience:
“Been on several occasions a beautiful place, on this occasion it was a Christmas candle light concert made even better by the acoustics of this impressive building.” - by Google reviewer, Paul Fawcett
4. Santa Fun Run & Walk
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Posted by Lincoln Santa Fun Run & Walk on Monday, 14 December 2015
Every year during the festive season, there is a fun outdoor event that occurs a single day only. Over 2,000 people will dress in Santa suits and will participate in this fun run (or walk) event whose upper goal is to raise money for some high-impact charities of Lincoln. The biggest festive fundraiser in Lincoln will start and finish at Castle Hill, while runners of all ages will go through the historic Bailgate area to end up getting their medals, after a 3.5 km (2.2 mi) two-lap course. Children below the age of eight may also participate with a parent or guardian, and it seems to me like the perfect family activity!
Santa Fun Run & Walk
Location: Around the historic Bailgate area
Date: For updated dates and hours, please visit the official website of the event.
Website: Santa Fun Run & Walk
Event highlights: You can get Santa suits at the event! Just make sure to select the right size when you’re booking the ticket.
Stay close to this market: Budget - The Lincoln Hotel; Luxury - The White Hart Hotel Lincoln
5. Advent Wreath Festival
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Advent Wreath Festival Opening times: AN UPDATE! We will be open Thursday 7th December 11am-12noon and 4-8pm. Friday...
Posted by St Mary Magdalene with St Paul in the Bail & St Michael on the Mount on Wednesday, December 6, 2023
ADVENT WREATH FESTIVAL 2022Posted by St Mary Magdalene with St Paul in the Bail & St Michael on the Mount on Friday, November 25, 2022
Advent Wreath Festival is held in St. Mary Magdalene’s Church, right in the heart of Lincoln’s Cathedral Quarter. Numerous wreaths decorated by local businesses will be exhibited in the church and visitors will have the chance to enjoy them during their visit. The doors will be open also during the Lincoln Christmas Market. Admission is free, although donations to local charities are highly appreciated.
Advent Wreath Festival
Venue: St. Mary Magdalene Church
Dates: For updated dates and hours, please visit the official website of St. Mary Magdalene Church.
Website: Advent Wreath Festival
Stay close to this market: Budget - The Lincoln Hotel; Luxury - The White Hart Hotel Lincoln
Choose Lincoln for your Christmas adventure
There are not so many places out there where you can get wonderful city vistas while strolling through amazing markets, but Lincoln, thankfully, does have that. It is worth your visit more than you can imagine, so don’t hesitate to make it your next holiday destination! And if you’re looking for places to stay, the city has Airbnb vacation rentals you can check out.
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