10 Instagrammable Places in Lincoln

Lincoln Cathedral is the jewel in the city’s crown and no trip would be complete without capturing some stunning photos of it in all its glory. Perched high at the top of Steep Hill, it may no longer hold the title for the tallest building in the world but, standing out on the skyline for miles around, it’s still an impressive sight to see.

Zoom in on the intricate Gothic detail of the cathedral’s epic exterior, pick-up the magnificent colors of the stained-glass windows inside or come back at nighttime when you’ll find the grounds spectacularly illuminated. Did you know that the cathedral was used for the filming of The Da Vinci Code (2006)? #TomHanksWasHere

Lincoln Castle is one of the city’s top attractions, located in the ancient Cathedral Quarter at the top of the famous Steep Hill. Home of the world-renowned 1215 Magna Carta, there’s a wealth of history to uncover. Plus, one of the must-do parts of any visit there is the Medieval Wall Walk.

Experience the ultimate #throwback as you circumnavigate the entire length of the ancient castle walls, taking in the breathtaking rooftop views of Lincoln as you go. Whichever way you turn, you’ll find another arty angle for 'the gram'. It’s free to enter the castle grounds, but there are entry fees for the Medieval Wall Walk, the Victorian Penitentiary, and the Magna Carta.

The Wigford Way Bridge has become famous in Lincoln, with its inquisitive signs on either side, quizzing you as you walk in and out of the city. Whether you’re heading from the direction of Brayford Pool toward the High Street, or you’re on your way back toward the waterfront from town, you’ll be met with either WHERE HAVE YOU BEEN? or WHERE ARE YOU GOING? in large lettering across the edge of the road bridge, for all who walk the underpass to see.

Literal, metaphorical, thought-provoking or just plain nosy, there’s no denying that this bridge screams ‘Instagram opportunity’. But it’s up to you which question you want to pose to your followers.

The Empowerment sculpture is one of Lincoln’s more modern attractions, but it fast became one of the most recognizable symbols of the city. Stretching up and over the River Witham, right next to the Waterside Shopping Center, the 52-foot-tall aluminum and steel structure was designed by Stephen Broadbent and completed in 2002.

The sculpture depicts turbine blades transforming into 2 humans, reaching out for each other over the river. It’s a symbol of the city’s industrial heritage and a striking sight to behold. You’ll get a great shot of the design from the footbridge spanning the river between the Waterside and City Square.

The Usher Gallery is a beautiful public art gallery and the only purpose-built one of its kind in Lincolnshire. Located just a short walk from the city centre, its lush terrace gardens provide the ideal foreground for your Insta photo.

Opened in 1927, the Grade II listed building features a stone and brick face, with Tuscan pilasters, a decoratively-carved roofline and an impressive portico and pediment. Angle your photo right and you’ll get the medieval Bishops’ Palace in the background too. Exploring the gallery’s fine art while you’re there is a must, plus entrance is free.

Brayford Pool is the city’s picturesque waterfront, housing the University of Lincoln on one side and an array of bars and restaurants on the other. Formed by a natural widening in the River Witham, you can expect to see numerous boats parked up, as well as gaggles of geese and flocks of swans aplenty.

You’ll be able to get a fantastic shot of the whole pool by standing at the railings on Brayford Wharf East and there’s no better time than sunset to get the colorful reflections of the sun on its surface. If you’re lucky, you might snap one of the graceful swans making a not-so-graceful landing on the water.

What makes Ellis’ Mill so unique is that you don’t often find a working windmill in a city these days, or any windmill, for that matter. And who doesn’t love a windmill photo, wherever it’s located? Just a 10-minute walk from Lincoln Castle and close to the Museum of Lincolnshire Life, it’s actually the only remaining working mill in Lincoln and well worth taking a wander to.

Head there at sunset to get an idyllic silhouette shot. Or, if you visit during the day at a weekend, you might just be able to get a free guided tour inside from one of the friendly volunteers.

The Lincoln Guildhall and Stonebow is one of the city’s most instantly recognizable landmarks, right in the center of town. Recognizable though it may be, not everyone is actually aware of the building’s importance, although it’s impossible not to be drawn in by its magnificent architecture, dating back to the time of the Tudors.

The Guildhall was built in 1520 and its impressive limestone archway sees hundreds of pedestrians pass beneath it each day. And, with its intricate carvings, parapets, tablet and clock, it’s a sight that begs to be photographed. Full council meetings and events still take place here, but there are regular free guided tours for those who want to further explore inside this hidden treasure.

A university library being among the city’s most Instagrammable places? Might be surprising to hear... but the University of Lincoln’s Library is pretty special. What was once the Great Central Warehouse has been magnificently transformed into a modern building. Its latest additions have been built around the original early-20^th-century brickwork, complete with the original painted wording on the side.

The combination of old brick and original factory windows with the newer sections built with modern floor-to-ceiling windows certainly makes for a unique photograph. Be sure to check out the student union next door while you’re there. Taking on a similar style, it’s a renovated railroad engine shed, giving it the imaginative and apt name, The Engine Shed.

Lincoln Arboretum is situated in Lincoln’s Cultural Quarter and is considered a hidden gem among the otherwise bustling city. Head here for a welcome dose of #greenspace and have your camera at the ready to capture some of the park’s Grade II listed monuments.

Wandering around the arboretum, you’ll find the impressive 1884 cast iron bandstand, a late 19^th-century shelter and the huge lion statue, all of which are worth a spot on your grid. When you’re done exploring, visit the onsite Arboretum Café for a bite to eat and a drink. The building itself is also Grade II listed.