Lincoln Private Walking Tour

Explore Lincoln’s Historic Charm with a Private Guided Walk

The Lincoln Private Walking Tour offers a detailed and personalized way to explore one of England’s most picturesque cities. Priced at $184.76 per person, this 5-hour tour from Ye Olde England Tours provides a comprehensive look at Lincoln’s Roman roots, medieval architecture, and modern history. It’s designed for those who appreciate depth, flexibility, and a relaxed pace, with a pickup service and group discounts available.

This tour is perfect for visitors who want an intimate experience with a knowledgeable guide, exploring key landmarks such as Lincoln Cathedral, Lincoln Castle, and the Roman Walls. It’s especially suited for those with a moderate level of physical fitness, ready for walking and some gentle climbs through historic streets. The small-group nature ensures personalized attention and a less hurried experience, making it suitable for history buffs, architecture lovers, and curious explorers alike.

Key Points

• Private guided experience lasting approximately 5 hours in Lincoln, England
• Includes visits to Lincoln Cathedral, Lincoln Castle, and Roman sites like Newport Arch
• Tour features many free attractions and some admission tickets included
• Customizable pace to suit individual preferences
• A full view of Lincoln’s Roman, medieval, and modern history
• Booking is typically done 69 days in advance, with flexible cancellation policy

Discover Lincoln’s Iconic Landmarks and Hidden Corners

The tour begins at 19 St Mary’s St, right in the heart of Lincoln, at 10:00 am. From there, the guide leads you through the city’s most significant sights, starting with the George Boole statue—a tribute to the mathematician born in Lincoln who invented Boolean logic. This small but meaningful statue is located near the Railway Station and is visible about one minute into the tour.

Walking along Brayford Pool, visitors can appreciate the Romans’ first inland harbour still in use today. The High Bridge, known as the oldest occupied bridge in the UK, offers a glimpse into Lincoln’s medieval engineering marvels. The Lincoln Guildhall stands out for its impressive architecture and the grand Stonebow, which has captivated visitors for centuries.

The tour continues through Steep Hill, the heart of medieval Lincoln. This charming street rises gently and is lined with boutique shops and historic buildings, with incredible views over the city. It’s a bit of a climb, but the scenery and history make it well worth the effort.

Exploring Lincoln’s Jewish and Roman Heritage

A significant part of Lincoln’s history is reflected in Jew’s House, which serves as a reminder of the city’s medieval Jewish community and its persecution. The guide explains the historical context, and the building itself is among the finest residential houses still standing in Lincoln, some functioning as a small synagogue.

Next, the tour takes you to the Well at St Paul in the Bail, where you can see the Roman wall through glass covers. Nearby, the Roman Mint Wall stands out as a rare example of a Roman structure that was part of the Roman basilica—a non-defensive Roman wall, originally 9 meters high.

The Newport Arch is another highlight: the only remaining Roman arch in Britain open to vehicular traffic, with a pedestrian tunnel for visitors. Walking under this ancient structure provides a direct link to Lincoln’s Roman past, dating back nearly 2,000 years.

Lincoln Castle and the Magna Carta

The Lincoln Castle is a centerpiece of the tour, built atop an earlier Roman fortress. It features two motte-and-bailey defenses and provides stunning views from its castle walls. The castle is home to one of only four original copies of the Magna Carta from 1215, a cornerstone document for modern democracy.

Visitors get to walk along the castle walls, taking in sweeping vistas of Lincoln’s skyline and the surrounding countryside. The David P J Ross Magna Carta Vault houses a rare original of this historic document, giving a tangible connection to England’s legal history.

Exploring Lincoln’s Victorian and Medieval Prisons

Inside the Victorian Prison of Lincoln Castle, the tour explores 1848-1878 detention practices, including the separate system used to inspire prisoners to reflect and reform. The atrium and prison cells vividly depict Victorian penal architecture, offering a visual history of criminal justice.

The Exchequer Gate marks the entrance to the Cathedral precinct and is a striking example of Victorian architecture built from medieval materials. It leads directly to Lincoln’s most famous religious site.

Inside Lincoln Cathedral and the Bishops’ Palace

The tour’s highlight is the inside visit to Lincoln Cathedral, a Gothic masterpiece originally built around 1088 AD. Though once the tallest building in the world, the central spire collapsed centuries ago, the cathedral remains a spectacular sight, with stunning interior architecture.

Standing near the cathedral, the Medieval Bishops’ Palace showcases grand stone architecture from the 15th century, once the administrative hub for the largest diocese in medieval England. The heritage gardens and vineyards nearby add to the scenic setting.

Additional Architectural Highlights and Cultural Sites

Other notable sites include the Priory Arch, a Victorian reconstruction from the original medieval gates, and Danesgate, the Viking-era gatehouse that marks Lincoln’s Viking history. The Tennyson Memorial Statue in the garden behind the cathedral commemorates the renowned poet, the second most quoted after Shakespeare.

The North Tower of the East Gate provides another Roman-era perspective, marking one of the main entry points into the ancient city of Lindum Colonia.

Practical Details: Pacing, Access, and Booking

The tour is flexible in pace, allowing visitors to linger at sites or speed through depending on their interests. The walking route covers a mix of flat streets, cobbled paths, and gentle climbs, making it suitable for most visitors with moderate physical fitness.

Meeting at 19 St Mary’s Street and ending back there, the tour is private, ensuring your group has the guide’s full attention. It is booked on average 69 days in advance, reflecting its popularity. The cancellation policy allows free cancellations up to 24 hours before the start, adding convenience for planning.

Why Choose This Tour for Your Visit to Lincoln

The Lincoln Private Walking Tour offers a balanced mix of famous landmarks and hidden corners, all with the benefit of a personal guide. The admission tickets for Lincoln Cathedral and the Magna Carta Vault are included, providing excellent value for a comprehensive experience.

The small-group format allows for a more relaxed and engaging experience, with the ability to ask questions and customize the pace. The tour is a great choice for those interested in history, architecture, and local stories.

Lincoln’s Hidden History and Personal Touch

This tour excels in revealing Lincoln’s lesser-known stories, including its Roman foundations, medieval Jewish community, and Viking influence. The guide’s knowledge shines through as they explain the significance of each site.

The historical sites are stunning, and the inside visits—particularly to Lincoln Cathedral and the Magna Carta—offer a rare glimpse into the city’s long-standing importance. The well-preserved Roman walls and medieval structures make for a visually rich journey through time.

Final Thoughts on the Lincoln Private Walking Tour

This private guided experience delivers a detailed exploration of Lincoln, combining history, architecture, and local legends. It’s ideal for visitors who want a personalized, informative, and relaxed way to discover the city’s highlights.

While the tour’s duration of 5 hours allows a thorough visit, be prepared for some walking and gentle climbs. The admission tickets included for key attractions, along with the flexible pace, make it good value for an immersive day in Lincoln.

The Lincoln Private Walking Tour stands out as an engaging, well-organized, and informative way to experience this historic city, especially for those keen to learn about its Roman roots, medieval grandeur, and Victorian stories.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the Lincoln Private Walking Tour?
The tour lasts approximately 5 hours, covering key landmarks and historical sites.

What is included in the price?
Admission tickets for Lincoln Cathedral and Magna Carta Vault are included, along with a private guide and pickup.

Where does the tour start and end?
It starts at 19 St Mary’s Street and concludes at the same location.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
The tour requires moderate physical activity with some walking and gentle climbs, making it suitable for most physically able visitors.

Can I book this tour well in advance?
Yes, it’s typically booked around 69 days in advance, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start.

What makes this tour different from self-guided visits?
The personal guide provides rich stories, historical insights, and customized pacing, enhancing the overall experience.

Is this tour family-friendly?
Yes, it suits families with moderate physical fitness and interest in history and architecture.

Are there any optional extras or additional costs?
Most key sites included in the itinerary already include admission, with no extra fees unless specified.

How accessible are the sites visited on this tour?
Most sites are accessible for visitors with moderate mobility, though some gentle climbs and cobbled streets should be considered.

What if I want to cancel or reschedule?
The booking offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour’s start time, providing flexibility in planning your visit.