Background

Lincoln Guildhall: A Living Medieval Legacy in the Heart of Lincoln

Explore Lincoln Guildhall, a centuries-old civic landmark with royal charters, medieval artifacts, and Tudor architecture at the heart of Lincoln.

4.5

Lincoln Guildhall, a Grade I listed building located on Saltergate in Lincoln, has been the seat of city governance since 1237. This historic site houses an impressive collection of royal charters dating back to the 12th century and features remarkable artifacts such as the oldest State Sword in the country. Visitors can explore its Tudor architecture, the unique slanted 16th-century staircase, and the council chamber still in use today, all brought to life through free guided tours offered several times weekly.

A brief summary to Lincoln Guildhall

  • Saltergate, Lincoln, LN2 1DH, GB
  • +441522873294
  • Duration: 1 to 1.5 hours
  • Free
  • Environment icon Indoor
  • Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
  • Monday 10:30 am-11:30 am
  • Wednesday 10:30 am-11:30 am
  • Friday 10:30 am-11:30 am
  • Saturday 10:30 am-11:30 am

Local tips

  • Arrive 5-10 minutes early for the free guided tours that run at 10:30 am and 2:00 pm on select days to secure your spot.
  • Tours are not available on Sundays or Tuesdays; check the schedule in advance as the Guildhall is sometimes closed for civic events.
  • Wear comfortable shoes to navigate the historic slanted staircase and uneven floors inside the Guildhall.
  • Combine your visit with nearby Lincoln Cathedral and Lincoln Castle for a full day of exploring the city’s medieval heritage.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Bus

    Take the Number 1 or Number 12 bus from Lincoln Central Bus Station to the city center; the journey takes about 10-15 minutes. From the stop, the Guildhall is a short walk. Buses run frequently, but check schedules for weekend variations. A single ticket costs around £2.50.

  • Train

    Lincoln Railway Station is approximately 1.5 miles from the Guildhall. A taxi ride takes about 10 minutes and costs around £8-£12. Alternatively, a local bus or a 30-minute walk is possible. Train services connect Lincoln to major cities such as Nottingham and London.

  • Walking

    From Lincoln city center, the Guildhall is easily accessible on foot via Saltergate. The walk is on paved, flat terrain and takes about 10-15 minutes from Lincoln Cathedral or Castle. Suitable for all fitness levels.

Lincoln Guildhall location weather suitability

  • Weather icon Any Weather
  • Weather icon Rain / Wet Weather
  • Weather icon Clear Skies
  • Weather icon Mild Temperatures

Unlock the Best of Lincoln Guildhall

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Lincoln Guildhall

Enduring Civic Heritage at Lincoln Guildhall

Lincoln Guildhall stands as a testament to the city’s rich medieval heritage, serving as the hub of local government since 1237. The building’s origins trace back to the 16th century, built atop a site granted by King Henry III, with the city administration continuously meeting here for nearly eight centuries. This continuity makes it one of the longest-serving civic centers in England, embodying Lincoln’s political and social evolution through the ages.

An Architectural Blend of Tudor and Historical Features

The Guildhall showcases classic Tudor architecture, with later 19th-century extensions that harmonize with the original style. A standout feature is the famously slanted 16th-century staircase, a unique architectural quirk that offers visitors a memorable ascent to the main council chamber. The building’s design reflects both its functional role and the craftsmanship of its era, providing a tangible connection to the past.

Royal Charters and Historic Artifacts

Within the Guildhall, visitors can view an extraordinary collection of royal charters spanning nearly 900 years, starting from the 12th century. These charters, granted by monarchs such as Henry II and Richard I, established Lincoln’s self-governance and civil liberties, cementing its importance as a medieval trading and political center. The Guildhall also houses four swords of state, including the oldest State Sword in the country, gifted by monarchs over the centuries, underscoring the city’s royal connections.

Immersive Guided Tours Bringing History to Life

Free guided tours are offered on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays, typically at 10:30 am and 2:00 pm. These tours last between one and one and a half hours, providing an in-depth exploration of Lincoln’s past, the Guildhall’s role, and its treasures. Visitors gain insights into the city’s medieval wool trade, the significance of the Stonebow archway adjacent to the Guildhall, and the stories behind the artifacts, including replica swords that can be handled during the tour.

The Guildhall’s Role in Modern Civic Life

Despite its historic status, the Guildhall remains a living building, with the council chamber still actively used for Full Council meetings. This blend of historical preservation and ongoing civic function highlights the building’s unique role as both a museum of the past and a center of present-day governance.

Location and Visitor Experience

Situated in Lincoln’s city center on Saltergate, the Guildhall is surrounded by other historic landmarks, including Lincoln Cathedral and Castle. The experience of visiting is enriched by the building’s atmospheric interiors and the knowledgeable guides who animate its history. The site offers a rare chance to step back through centuries of English history within a single, continuously used civic space.

Busiest months of the year

Busiest hours of the day

Popular Experiences near Lincoln Guildhall

Popular Hotels near Lincoln Guildhall

Select Currency