Lincoln Cathedral
Considered to be one of the finest examples of gothic architecture in Europe, Lincoln Cathedral is the city’s most iconic landmark. Standing tall for almost a thousand years, the Cathedral serves as a beacon of hope for visitors from across the globe.
Towering over the city since 1092, Lincoln Cathedral was once the tallest building in the world. Although it may not hold that title anymore, it is still one of the most important. The building was described by Victorian writer John Ruskin as “out and out the most precious piece of architecture in the British Isles and roughly speaking worth any two other cathedrals we have”.
The construction of Lincoln Cathedral
When the Normans invaded Britain in the 11th century, William the Conqueror commissioned the first Bishop of Lincoln, Remigius de Fécamp, to build a Cathedral. Foundations were laid in 1072, and on 9 May 1092, it was consecrated. Lincoln Cathedral then became the head of the largest diocese in England, which extended from the Humber to the Thames.
After being ravaged by fire and then hit by a devastating earthquake in 1185, the Cathedral was in need of serious repair. When Hugh of Avalon became the Bishop of Lincoln a year later, he introduced a building program that would transform the cathedral into one of the world's most impressive buildings.
The rebuild incorporated a new Gothic style of architecture, it is often said that the architects that worked on the cathedral perhaps reached the pinnacle of their art with the build. Despite the Cathedral’s dramatic scale, the details on the building are incredibly intricate. The stonework is full of complex carvings, and the stained glass windows were once described as the “finest in the kingdom”.
Building work continued on the Cathedral for a great number of years, with additions like the Chapter House, the Galilee Porch and the Angel Choir transforming the existing building. In 1311, the original Central Tower was replaced with a tower and spire. This dramatic addition made Lincoln Cathedral the tallest building in the world, taking the mantle from the Great Pyramid of Giza. The building retained this impressive until 1549, when a raging storm caused the spire to collapse.
In 1724, an expert advised that the spires on the West Tower were also removed. It was believed that the Cathedral towers were endangered by their own weight, and could very well collapse. Shockingly, this advice was not taken up until 1807, after the people of Lincoln rioted.
While the significant architectural changes were largely finished by the 1900s, the restoration efforts never stop. Today, the Cathedral has a dedicated team of stonemasons who work tirelessly to preserve and protect it for generations to come.
Lincoln Cathedral's connection to Magna Carta
Lincoln Cathedral owns one of only four surviving copies of Magna Carta, an iconic charter dating back to 1215.
Magna Carta was the first charter to limit the power of the king and to uphold the rights of the individual. When King John agreed to the barons’ demands for peace at Runnymede in 1215, copies of the charter were made and sealed. The documents were distributed to sheriffs, cathedrals, and important religious houses throughout England. As the Bishop of Lincoln, Hugh of Wells, was present at Runnymede, he made sure a copy was sent back to Lincoln – where it remains to this day.
After King John’s death, Magna Carta was re-issued in 1216, and again in 1217, when the Charter of the Forest was issued with it. This charter amplifies clauses in Magna Carta concerning the rights of people living in royal forests. Only two 1217 Forest Charters survive; one of which belongs to Lincoln Cathedral.
Today, Lincoln is the only place in the world where you can see original copies of both the 1215 Magna Carta and the 1217 Charter of the Forest side-by-side. Both charters are owned by Lincoln Cathedral, but are on display at Lincoln Castle. There is a facsimile of Magna Carta that can be viewed inside the Cathedral, near the cloisters, with a detailed interpretation.
The Lincoln Imp at Lincoln Cathedral
The Lincoln Imp is one of the city’s most iconic symbols. Surrounded by myth and legend, this cheeky stone carving is thought to date back to the 14th century. Although there are many tales of how he came to be at the Cathedral, the overall theme is the same; this naughty imp was sent to wreak havoc.
After causing a ruckus in the Cathedral, the Imp was warned there would be consequences to his actions. When he continued to be naughty, an angel appeared and turned him to stone. He has remained in the same spot ever since, sitting cross-legged on top of the pillar, overlooking the Angel Choir – a constant reminder of how good will always triumph over evil.
The Medieval and Wren Libraries
The Medieval Library and Wren Library are hidden above the Cathedral Cloisters. Home to a selection of rare and precious manuscripts, these incredible rooms are real hidden gems.
Established in the 15th century, the Medieval Library was initially designed as a chained library to store the Cathedral’s collection of early handwritten manuscripts. Primarily utilized by scholars and clergy, the library's collection featured numerous theological works, along with notable gems such as Chaucer’s Canterbury Tales and the Thornton Manuscript.
Lincoln Cathedral is home to one of only two remaining Wren Libraries in the world. Built in the 17th century, the library was designed by the famous Sir Christopher Wren, who also created St Paul's Cathedral and Kensington Palace. Described by art historian Sir Roy Strong as "the most beautiful room in England”, the library has been intricately decorated, and furnished with oak reading-desks.
The Wren Library houses about half of the Cathedral's collection of early printed books. Many of these were originally owned by the Dean, Michael Honywood, who funded the library's construction and design. His impressive collection covers a diverse range of subjects, and includes 120 books which were printed before 1501.
Lincoln Cathedral Exhibition Gallery and Discovery Centre
The Exhibition Gallery at Lincoln Cathedral is home to a selection of fascinating artefacts - many of which have never been on display before. Each different object reveals a unique insight into the cathedral, and the the people associated with it. The internationally important Romanesque Frieze is the centrepiece of the exhibition, but highlights also include William the Conqueror’s writ, and the silver matrix used to impress the Chapter’s wax seal on legal documents for more than 700 years.
The Discovery Centre at Lincoln Cathedral is a hands-on space the whole family can enjoy. There are videos and interactive exhibits to help you understand more about the cathedral, and the special events that are held here throughout the year. A great way to get hands-on with history, children can have a go at creating their own gothic arch, take a closer look at stained glass and even take a seat on a grand throne.
Guided tours at the Cathedral
If you're visiting Lincoln Cathedral for the first time, a tour with one of the cathedral's expert guides is one of the best ways to explore this magnificent building. Floor tours are included with admission, and offer a great overview of the building’s history and architecture. If you want to enhance your visit even further, there are a number of specialist tours which delve a little deeper.
Floor Tour
Floor tours run throughout the year and are suitable for all. They usually last around an hour and cover all aspects of the Cathedral, from architecture to history. This free tour is full of interesting stories and fun facts, and offers a great introduction to the building.
Roof Tour
The Roof Tour at Lincoln Cathedral will allow you to take a closer look at the structures that hold up the roof of the Cathedral. As you explore behind the scenes, you will gain insight into the workmanship required to build and maintain the building. You’ll also have the chance to get up close to the stained glass windows, visit a bell chamber and enjoy views down the full length of the nave.
Tower Tour
This tour will take you to the top of the Cathedral's Central Tower. After climbing 300 steps, you will have the chance to enjoy fantastic 360 degree views of the city, county and beyond. On the way up, your guide will share more about the history of the Cathedral and you will be able to see the clock mechanism and bells which ring the quarter hour every day.
Symbolism Tour
Throughout history, shapes, numbers and colours have been used to reveal meanings and messages. This enlightening tour takes a look at the secret language of every element of the cathedral, from the hidden meanings of the stone carvings, to the significance of the towers. As you make your way around the building, your guide will help you to decipher symbols, unravel mysteries and interpret secret messages.
Historic Graffiti Tour
Lincoln Cathedral is covered in marks and inscriptions; from the floor to the top of the tower, there are hundreds of examples of historic graffiti. This tour offers a fascinating insight into the people who may have left their mark on this magnificent building, as well as their hopes, dreams and beliefs.
Stained Glass Window Tour
You can find stunning stained glass windows throughout Lincoln Cathedral, but did you know they all tell a story? Join the stained glass window tour and you can learn more about the historic stories that are hidden within the beautiful panes of glass, as well as the makers who created them.
Secrets of Minster Yard
This outdoor tour will take you on a relaxing walk around Minster Yard. As you make your way around this picturesque area, you’ll have the chance to find out more about some of the colourful characters who have resided here over the centuries. The tour will also allow you access to little-seen locations including the Ringer’s Chapel and the enclosed courtyard of Vicar’s Court – the oldest surviving Vicars’ Choral buildings in England.
Nature and Architecture Tour
Led by photographer Bruce Hargrave, this tour will allow you to test out your photography skills. The tour will start with some photo opportunities in the Cloisters, followed by a trip up the central tower. Here you will have a chance to take some pictures of the internal structure of the tower, and with any luck, the Cathedral’s resident peregrine falcons.
The Dean’s Green
The Dean’s Green is a beautifully peaceful garden just outside Lincoln Cathedral. Open to all, this pretty green space was restored and renovated as part of a National Lottery-funded project. The garden offers exquisite views of the Cathedral, and has been thoughtfully landscaped with lawns and flower beds. Custom-made solid oak seating offers the ideal spot for visitors to rest and reflect, whilst an intricate stone statue and water feature provide focal points in the gardens.
Lincoln Cathedral Café
Located within the Visitor Centre, Lincoln Cathedral Café is open for breakfast, lunch and afternoon tea. There are an abundance of delicious options on offer, ranging from hearty meals to light bites. The menu also features a great selection of hot and cold drinks, and a variety of homemade cakes and bakes.
As well as being a great spot for a drink, the café also boasts fantastic views of the cathedral. For an uninterrupted view, grab a seat by the window, or head outside to the Dean’s Green Terrace - the perfect spot for a cup of coffee on a sunny day.
