Lincoln’s incredible past springs to life as the Festival of History returns for a three-day celebration over the Early May Bank Holiday, from 2 to 4 May 2026.
Visitors can step back through the centuries and experience four immersive historic zones, thrilling re-enactments, hands-on activities, and captivating living history displays across the city.
Step inside Lincoln’s Castle of Curiosities
Escape into the wonder and eccentricity of the Victorian Age inside the medieval walls of Lincoln’s magnificent castle.
You’ll meet a colourful cast of characters in the Victorian Prison as they share fascinating stories and legends inspired by the castle’s remarkable past.
Join Lady Agatha Worthy, the famous archaeologist, and uncover the digs and discoveries found buried beneath the castle’s walls.
Meet the historian, Athelstan Worthy, and delve into the incredible events of the 1217 Battle of Lincoln that shaped the course of English history. The professor has just completed his study of the battle’s depiction in the Chronica Majora, currently on display inside the castle’s Magna Carta Vault, and can’t wait to share his findings with you!
Outside in the Castle grounds, there’ll be even more characters to meet from the Ragged Victorians, as well as fire breathing and other jaw-dropping stunts from What a Palaver.
Experience a Victorian extravaganza at the Museum of Lincolnshire Life
The Victorian extravaganza continues a short walk away at The Museum of Lincolnshire Life.
Experience the sights, sounds and stories of everyday life in Victorian Lincolnshire at the special event taking place on Saturday 2 and Sunday 3 May.
Discover the tools, traditions and inventions that shaped the period, hear the clatter of the historic printing press, see the impressive Robey winding engine in motion, and soak up the atmosphere with traditional music throughout the museum.
On Monday 4 May time travellers will be able to create their very own Victorian puppet theatre and thaumatrope (a spinning paper toy that creates an optical illusion). There’ll also be a Victorian quiz to enjoy where you'll answer questions about the museum’s 250,000 strong collection of incredible artefacts and spot the steam engines!
Footplate of an Anglo-Saxon headed brooch being displayed at the Usher Gallery. CCBY Portable Antiquities Scheme
Marvel at beautiful Anglo-Saxon brooches at the Usher Gallery
After you’ve taken in the sights and sounds of the Castle and the Museum of Lincolnshire Life, continue your adventure through time at the Usher Gallery.
Don’t miss your rare opportunity to admire beautiful Anglo-Saxon brooches up close at a special Portable Antiquities Scheme display.
These ornate and skilfully crafted pieces were unearthed by metal detectorists at Cammeringham – a discovery that changed how historians understand Lincoln in the early medieval period.
Will Mason, head of culture at Lincolnshire County Council, said: “The fabulous Festival of History is always a highlight of our events calendar. We can’t wait to throw open the doors of our attractions and pack them full of hands-on activities to inspire the next generation.
“From live storytelling to beautiful Anglo-Saxon brooches, there’s so much to enjoy across the bank holiday weekend. We can’t wait to welcome you for three days of history, creativity and adventure for the whole family.”
Plan your visit
The Ultimate Festival of History Experience takes place inside the Castle’s Victorian Prison from 10am to 5pm on all three days of the festival. Entry is included in the Castle Day ticket and free for annual pass holders. This also includes entry to the Magna Carta Vault. The Castle grounds are free to explore.
The Museum of Lincolnshire Life is open all three days of the festival. Tickets for the Saturday and Sunday event cost just £3 for adults, £1.50 per child, and £2 for concessions. Or buy a family ticket for two adults and up to three children for £6. Simply pay on the door on the day. Entry on Monday 4 May costs £3 per child. Entry for adults is free and all children must be accompanied by an adult.
The Usher Gallery is open from 10am to 4pm on all three days of the festival. Entry is free.
To find out more about all the exciting events taking place across the city during the Festival of History head to the Visit Lincoln website and follow Events in Lincoln on Facebook and Instagram.