
Guildhall and Stonebow Lincoln
Step back in time at Lincoln's Guildhall and Stonebow, a historic gem offering free guided tours of medieval and Tudor treasures.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Less crowded, more engaging

Guildhall and Stonebow Lincoln
Best Time
Less crowded, more engaging
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step back in time at Lincoln's Guildhall and Stonebow, a historic gem offering free guided tours of medieval and Tudor treasures.
"The free guided tours are outstanding, packed with knowledge and delivered with passion!"

🎯 Free Tours are Gold!
The free guided tours are highly recommended for their depth of history and passionate guides .
⏰ Arrive for Tour Start
Be at the door a few minutes before the tour begins to ensure entry and a good spot .

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Guildhall Meeting Room
Above the Stonebow
Step into the historic Tudor-style meeting room where council has convened since 1237. Marvel at its preserved architecture.
Royal Charters & Silver Sword
Treasury
See ancient Royal Charters dating back to the 12th century and a silver sword from Richard II. A tangible link to centuries of history.
The Slanting 16th Century Staircase
Entrance
Ascend the remarkably slanted 16th-century staircase, a unique architectural feature that hints at the building's age.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Free Guided Tours: A Must-Do
Timing is Key for Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Free Tours are Gold!
The free guided tours are highly recommended for their depth of history and passionate guides.
⏰ Arrive for Tour Start
Be at the door a few minutes before the tour begins to ensure entry and a good spot.
👟 Watch Your Step
The 16th-century staircase is notably slanted – take your time and enjoy the unique climb.
📚 History Buffs Rejoice
This is a must-visit for anyone interested in Lincoln's medieval and Tudor past.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Free Tours are Gold!
The free guided tours are highly recommended for their depth of history and passionate guides.
⏰ Arrive for Tour Start
Be at the door a few minutes before the tour begins to ensure entry and a good spot.
👟 Watch Your Step
The 16th-century staircase is notably slanted – take your time and enjoy the unique climb.
📚 History Buffs Rejoice
This is a must-visit for anyone interested in Lincoln's medieval and Tudor past.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently rave about the free guided tours at the Guildhall and Stonebow, praising the guides' extensive knowledge and engaging storytelling. The historical artifacts and the building's architecture are also highly appreciated, making it a must-visit for history lovers. Some minor concerns include the challenging nature of the slanted staircase for those with mobility issues.
"We visited on Wednesday morning for the 10.30 tour. This tour is free to do which is amazing! The tour lasts between an hour and an hour and a half. The tour guide was a very nice man who amazed us with his knowledge! No question went unanswered. I don't know what I expected from the tour but I got more from it than I could have imagined. We learnt so many facts and were told great stories. The building is preserved extremely well. And the treasury is full of amazing objects and historical documents. I wouldn't hesitate about doing the tour again! If you haven't been, you should go!"
Hannah R
"I attended the 10:30am tour this morning. I'd like to say a big thank you to Colin for the fascinating tour, I learned a lot about the Guildhall and also the history of Lincoln. The tours are free, but I'd happily recommend this even if there was a charge."
Lynn B
"Lincoln Guildhall is above the Stonebow. The grade one listed building dates back to 1520. The tudor style building was extended in the 1800s in a matching style. The council has met on this site since 1237. There are free informative guided tours twice a day. It is a stunning looking building."
Andrew Nell
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Guildhall and Stonebow are located in the heart of Lincoln's historic city center. You can easily walk to it from most central Lincoln attractions. If arriving by car, there are several car parks nearby, such as the Lincoln Central Car Park. Public transport options include local bus services that stop in the city center.
Yes, there are several public car parks within walking distance of the Guildhall and Stonebow. The closest options include the Lincoln Central Car Park and the Boston Road Car Park. Be aware that parking in the city center can be busy, especially during peak times.
Absolutely! The Stonebow itself is a prominent historic archway, and the Guildhall is situated above it. You can admire the exterior architecture from street level at any time. However, to see the interior and its treasures, you'll need to join a guided tour.
The Stonebow is a historic medieval gatehouse and archway in Lincoln, dating back to the 14th century. It served as a fortified entrance to the city. The Guildhall is located directly above this impressive structure, making them a combined historical landmark.
Yes, the Guildhall and Stonebow are very accessible by public transport. Numerous bus routes serve the Lincoln city center, with stops just a short walk away. Lincoln Central train station is also within walking distance, making it convenient for day-trippers.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the guided tours of the Guildhall and Stonebow are completely free! This is a fantastic aspect highlighted by many visitors. You don't need to book in advance, but it's advisable to arrive a little early for the tour start time.
The Guildhall typically offers free guided tours twice a day, usually in the morning and early afternoon. It's best to check the official Lincoln City Council website or inquire locally for the most up-to-date tour times, as these can vary.
The guided tours usually last between an hour and an hour and a half. This provides ample time for the guide to share detailed historical information and answer any questions you might have.
Access to the interior of the Guildhall is primarily through the guided tours. While you can see the Stonebow from the outside, the historical rooms and treasury are best experienced with the insights provided by a tour guide.
There are no specific age limits mentioned for the Guildhall tours. The content is generally historical and informative, making it suitable for most ages. However, younger children might require more engagement to stay interested for the full duration.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Expect to see the historic Tudor meeting room, ancient Royal Charters dating back to the 12th century, a silver sword from Richard II, and other fascinating historical artifacts. You'll also learn about Lincoln's history as a wool town.
Yes, visitors consistently praise the tour guides for their extensive knowledge, enthusiasm, and passion for Lincoln's history. They are adept at answering questions and making the tour engaging.
The Guildhall is an old building with a significant 16th-century staircase that is quite slanted. While the guides are accommodating, visitors with significant mobility issues might find the ascent challenging. It's advisable to contact them in advance to discuss accessibility.
Photography is generally permitted inside the Guildhall during tours, but it's always a good idea to check with your guide at the start of the tour. Be mindful of other visitors and avoid flash photography if it's disruptive.
The Guildhall's history spans from the medieval period (council meetings since 1237) through the Tudor era (16th-century building) and into the 1800s with extensions. The artifacts, like the Royal Charters, date back even further.
📸 📸 Photography
The most photogenic spots include the impressive 16th-century staircase, the historic meeting room with its period features, and any displayed artifacts like the silver sword or Royal Charters. The exterior of the Stonebow archway is also a classic Lincoln shot.
Photography is usually allowed inside the Guildhall during tours, but it's best to confirm with your guide. Be respectful of the historical artifacts and other visitors. Avoid using flash if it might damage delicate items or disturb others.
A versatile lens like a 24-70mm or a prime lens (e.g., 35mm or 50mm) would be useful for capturing both the interior details and wider shots of the rooms. A camera with good low-light performance is beneficial due to the historic nature of the building.
Yes, the Stonebow archway itself is a striking subject. You can get good shots from street level looking up at the arch and the Guildhall above. Consider different angles and times of day for varied lighting conditions.
Generally, yes, but always ask your guide first. Some very old or delicate artifacts might have restrictions. If allowed, focus on capturing the intricate details of items like the Royal Charters or the silver sword.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🏛️ History Enthusiasts
💰 Budget Travelers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Rich History of the Guildhall and Stonebow
Visitors on the free guided tours are treated to a journey through centuries of Lincoln's past. You'll learn about its significance as a wool town, a vital economic driver in medieval England. The treasury within the Guildhall houses remarkable artifacts, including Royal Charters dating back to the 12th century, offering a tangible connection to the nation's early history. The presence of a silver sword belonging to Richard II further underscores the building's historical weight and its connection to royalty. The guides' passion and extensive knowledge bring these stories to life, making the visit an engaging historical exploration.
Beyond the artifacts, the building's structure tells its own story. The 16th-century staircase is a notable feature, famously slanted, providing a unique and memorable ascent to the main meeting room. This architectural quirk is a testament to the building's age and the craftsmanship of its original builders. The free guided tours are consistently lauded as exceptional, offering more value than many paid attractions, and are a highly recommended experience for anyone visiting Lincoln.
Experiencing the Free Guided Tours
The tours typically last between an hour and an hour and a half, covering the Guildhall's extensive history, from its medieval origins to its Tudor construction and beyond. You'll explore the main meeting room, learn about Lincoln's role as a wool town, and marvel at the treasures in the treasury, including ancient Royal Charters and a silver sword from Richard II. Some guides even take visitors downstairs to handle replica swords used by historical figures like King Henry VII, an unforgettable hands-on experience.
To make the most of your tour, it's recommended to arrive a few minutes before the scheduled start time. While the tours are free, the value they provide is immense, with many visitors stating they would happily pay for such an insightful experience. The guides' ability to weave historical facts with compelling stories ensures that even those not typically interested in history will find themselves captivated.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit