Explore historic Lincoln by bike
Historic Lincoln and Surrounding Area
Lincolnshire is a wonderfully diverse county to explore by bike and this route will allow you to experience many different aspects of it, treating you to some of the best sights and experiences it has to offer. Based predominantly in Lincoln, you’ll be able to explore this ancient city in all its glory whilst also venturing further afield to take in the contrasting and captivating countryside that surrounds it.
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Distance: 248 km (154 miles)
- Total climbing: 776m
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Terrain: Quiet Roads
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Starting point: Lincoln
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Finish point: Lincoln
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Difficulty Rating: ** (click here for more details)
Map Key
Highlights
Lincoln Castle
This fortress, built by William the Conqueror, has dominated Lincoln’s skyline since 1068 and is home to one of only four surviving copies of Magna Carta. It also houses a Victorian prison which provides a unique insight into crime and punishment of the past.
Lincoln Cathedral
Regarded as one of Europe’s finest Gothic buildings, Lincoln Cathedral is not to be missed. It was once the tallest cathedral in the world and still offers stunning views from its roof and tower, as well as intricate architecture inside its walls.
Doddington Hall
This fine, late Elizabethan mansion was designed by Robert Smythson, one of England’s leading architects, and completed in 1600. It has been privately owned by the same family ever since and is surrounded by majestic gardens.
International Bomber Command Centre
Home of the UK’s tallest war memorial in the form of a 31-metre spire, this visitor centre honours the service and sacrifice of all those who lost their life while serving with Bomber Command during World War II.
Tattershall Castle
Standing six stories tall, this 15th century fort features some of the earliest and finest surviving examples of medieval brickwork in England. The castle’s highlights include a vast winding staircase, gothic fireplaces and brilliantly preserved battlements.
Whisby Nature Park
Whisby Nature Park is an amazing place to discover; full of wildlife, walks and trails. The park was once lifeless and barren after being created by quarrying but nature has reclaimed the pits and sand and created a rich habitat for a wide variety of flora and fauna.
Suggested Itinerary
Taking the Water Rail Way out of Lincoln, you’ll pass the magnificent Tattershall Castle as you make your way to the award-winning village of Woodhall Spa. You’ll then join the Spa Trail to Horncastle, and on to the International Bomber Command Memorial Centre on Canwick Hill before being pedalling back into Lincoln.
Next, you’ll follow the River Witham to Doddington and continue on a picturesque loop taking in ancient woodlands and the Whisby Nature Reserve before arriving back in Doddington with time to explore the splendid Doddington Hall.
From there, you’ll follow the ancient Fossdyke Navigation through flat, rural landscapes rich with wildlife to Torksey Lock before pressing onwards through Saxilby and Skellingthorpe, back into Lincoln.
Finally, you’ll head north on the national cycle route through a procession of sleepy villages to the bustling market town of Market Rasen. If you’ve got time, a visit to Woodside Wildlife Park could be well worth a visit, and on your return to Lincoln you might even catch a glimpse of the RAF Red Arrows flying overhead before arriving back in the city and toasting the conclusion of this hugely enjoyable trip which will live long in the memory.
*This itinerary is only a guide. Our travel partners have various itineraries available to suit your desired budget schedule, or you can tailor your own trips independently.
Book This Holiday
If you'd like to book this ride as a package holiday, the following tour operators currently offer this trip. Click the links below to find an option which best suits your needs.
Lincolnshire | Historic Lincoln and Surrounding Area
