Lincoln castle is also one of only two castles in Britain builtl with two mottes; Lewes castle being the other

Construction of Lincoln Castle was begun in 1068 by William the Conqueror, on top of an old hill fort site used by the Romans with 166 houses being demolished to accommodate its imposing size.

Lincoln was mostly constructed of timber and was all but virtually destroyed by fire during the early part of the 12th century. After the fire, Lincoln castle was rebuilt with stone and with the addition of a shell keep.

Lincoln seemed to have led a quiet life in comparison to other castles of the period; the only exception being the Baron’s War during the early part of the 13th century. The castle also had the esteemed privilege of being the seat of the shire court and prison.

Lincoln Castle boasts several imposing features, with the fist being that of the 12th century walls. You can still walk around the ramparts, giving you a magnificent view of the six-acre castle complex, and also panoramic views of the cathedral, city and surrounding countryside.

Lincoln castle is also one of only two castles in Britain built with two mottes ; Lewes castle being the other.

The second renowned feature is that of The Lucy Tower, a 15 sided shell keep built on the larger motte and so named after the mother of a 12th century owner, Lucy, Countess of Chester. The tower is an open structure, which would more than likely had contained lean-to buildings resting against the inner wall. This medieval keep later became the Victorian burial ground for convicts.

A square tower was constructed on the smaller motte, which is part Norman and part 14th century. Later, during the 1800’s an observatory was added by the then governor of the prison.

Lincoln’s east gate, now the main entrance was originally a plain Norman arch built into a rectangular recess in the wall. It was later strengthened in later years by a gatehouse and two round turrets which probably rose higher than they do today. Lincoln also had a barbican spanning a dry moat, which included a drawbridge and portcullis. These were pulled down in 1791.

Also during the 13th century a defensive tower built. It was horseshoe-shaped and is located at the northeast corner of the castle. The tower served as the castle prison for many centuries with the county gallows being sited there in 1868. The tower’s roof was also used for public hangings until 1868.

Towards the end of the 18th century a prison was built on the castle green enclosure and was further enlarged by the Victorians. Many of the prisons inmates were deported to Australia with many more being executed on the ramparts.

Lincoln Castle also houses one of only four remaining copies of the original Lincoln Magna Carta bearing the seal of King John, which was singed in 1215. The Victorian prison building now houses an exhibition explaining the origin of the Magna Carta and the effects it has had on our lives today.

The last of Lincoln’s modifications, the Crown Court buildings (the Assize Courts) took place in 1826 at the western end of the castle complex and are still in use today.

Tourist Information

OPENING TIMES

9.30am to 5.30pm Monday to Saturday

11.00am to 5.30pm Sundays

IN WINTER THE CASTLE CLOSES 4.00pm

ADMISSION

Adults £2.50,

Children £1.00 Concessions £1.50

Family £6.50

On some Castle events admission charges may be altered

THE CASTLE IS CLOSED ON CHRISTMAS DAY, BOXING DAY & NEW YEARS DAY