Lincoln Castle Illuminated 2026

Lincoln Castle Illuminated returns to Lincoln Castle from 20 November to 23 December 2026, when the castle grounds are taken over by light installations, dazzling displays and thousands of twinkling lights. There are new pieces created especially for the castle alongside the festive favourites that come back each year, so it's a mix of something fresh and the things you'll recognise from previous winters.

It's a wander-at-your-own-pace kind of evening. You drift through the estate with hot chocolate and festive treats in hand, and there are traditional fairground rides and photo spots scattered around. The castle's resident dragons are out to meet people, including Hastings, a new arrival this year. For the smaller ones, there's a mini Christmas Express that runs through the grounds, and if you're bringing your dog, there are dog-friendly evenings on selected Wednesdays.

While you're there, you can also take in the castle itself. It was built by William the Conqueror in 1068 and has stood for centuries as a symbol of power and a seat of justice. You can scale the Medieval Wall Walk, follow in the footsteps of prisoners in the Victorian Prison and immerse yourself in the Magna Carta story, so there's over a thousand years of history to see alongside the lights.

It runs from 20 November to 23 December, closed on Mondays and Tuesdays except for Monday 21 and Tuesday 22 December. On weekends it's open 4pm to 9pm, and on weekdays 5.30pm to 9pm.