Five Castles to Visit in Lincolnshire
Lincolnshire’s rich history can be seen throughout the county, which is full of heritage from almost every era. As it sits on a strategic position on the east coast of England facing the North Sea, Lincolnshire has a wealth of castles, built here to stave off the threat of invasion, as strongholds for warring barons or as projections of sheer power.
With so much choice out there, we’ve rounded up our favourite five castles in Lincolnshire to make the process of planning your next day out that little bit easier. The county’s gorgeous countryside is ideal for camping holidays too; whether you’re planning an overnight pitstop or a longer family break, Pitchup has lots of tempting options to suit all budgets.
Lincoln Castle
Built by King William the Conqueror just two years after the Conquest of 1066, Lincoln Castle is one of the finest examples of Norman architecture in this part of England. Tour the medieval parts of the castle using an audio guide to help you discover its hidden nooks and crannies before travelling through the Georgian and Victorian additions, which date back to the time when the castle was used as a local prison. It is used as a courtroom to this day, and is also home of a well-preserved copy of the Magna Carta.
Good to know: Lincoln’s 11th-century fortress has the added bonus of being just a five-minute walk from the city's spectacular cathedral, which was also built by the Norman newcomers and whose history is inextricably linked to the castle.
Tattershall Castle
This 15th-century castle, built in stunning red brick close to the river Bain, can be seen for miles around from the surrounding Lincolnshire fens. The castle is a showcase of late medieval brickwork and is surrounded by an imposing moat, which means it's relatively compact and easy to visit with younger kids.
Today, Tattershall Castle is managed by the National Trust, who have taken good care of the battlements and bridges that make this place such a joy to explore. Keep an eye out for peacocks as you wander through the grounds, or stop for drinks and light refreshments in the café housed in the former gatehouse.
Spending a few days in the county? Look at Pitchup’s 11 best things to do in Lincolnshire.
Bolingbroke Castle
This ruined castle was designed and built in the 13th century, with highlights including sturdy curtain walls, the octagonal King’s Tower and impressive medieval earthworks.
It’s not as well-preserved as the other Lincolnshire castles on this list, but the story of its destruction by Parliamentarian forces during the English Civil War further adds to the sense of history that hangs over the place.
Bolingbroke Castle is managed by English Heritage and is free to enter.
Belton Estate
A Grade I-listed mansion and 1,300 acres of parkland near the historic market town of Grantham, Belton House was built in the late 17th century by local baronet Sir John Brownlow and is set in gorgeous formal gardens dotted with follies, trees and topiary.
Belton Estate is also home to a herd of around 300 wild fallow deer that live in its extensive grounds. The property is managed by the National Trust and has a good range of amenities, including several cafés, an ice cream parlour, a gift shop and a second-hand bookshop.
Fancy a day by the sea? Start exploring the east coast of England with our selection of the six best beaches in Lincolnshire.
Burghley House
Burghley House is a grand Elizabethan palace near the pretty town of Stamford. It’s also the only castle on our list that is still inhabited as a family home, having been owned by the direct descendants of William Cecil, its founder, for over 500 years.
The array of fine art that has been amassed here over the centuries – including Italian Old Masters and a collection of intricate English portrait miniatures – makes it worthwhile buying a ticket for both the house and the grounds. Please note that although dogs are welcome in the parkland, they are not allowed in the gardens.
If you’re keen to discover more Lincolnshire treasures, check out Pitchup’s guides to Central England. Like the sound of what you read? Then consider booking a camping holiday in the county; we have an impressive selection of alfresco accommodation starting from as little as £15 per night.