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Lincoln Medieval Bishops’ Palace
Explore the unique vineyard at Lincoln Medieval Bishops’ Palace, the only one located on an English Heritage site, where vines grow amidst magnificent ancient ruins and centuries of history.
https://www.lincolncathedral.com/visit/lincoln-medieval-bishops-palace
Minster Yard, Lincoln, Lincolnshire, England, LN2 1PU.
Get directions
Nearest station: Lincoln (0.7 miles).
Approx walking time: 16 minutes.
Public tours
Self-guided tours
Dog friendly
Child friendly
Walking trailWhile we update listings frequently, we suggest confirming important details with the vineyard to avoid any surprises.
What's the vibe
Nestled beneath the majestic Lincoln Cathedral, the Lincoln Medieval Bishops' Palace offers a glimpse into medieval grandeur amidst historic ruins and tranquil gardens. With sweeping views of the city and countryside, it provides a peaceful, reflective atmosphere that transports visitors back in time.Visiting information
Open: The site is currently closed for further development following recent conservation work. Please check the official English Heritage website for the most up-to-date information on re-opening dates and hours before planning your visit.Tickets: When open, admission typically requires a ticket, though English Heritage members enjoy free entry. Online booking often provides a discount.Tours: An audio tour is usually available to guide visitors through the historical features of the palace.
Food & Drink: While there isn't a restaurant, a vending machine offers hot drinks. Visitors are welcome to bring their own picnics to enjoy in the peaceful Heritage Garden, which boasts excellent views.
Special Events: Seasonal events are occasionally held, so it's advisable to check the English Heritage website for details.
Accommodation: There is no accommodation on site.
Dogs & Children: The palace grounds are family-friendly, and dogs are welcome on leads.
The Wine
The Lincoln Medieval Bishops' Palace is unique as the only English Heritage property to feature a vineyard. The vines, a mix of white grape varieties including Ortega, Muller Thurgau, and Madeleine Sylvaner, were a gift from Lincoln's twin city in Germany, Neustadt-an-der-Weinstrasse, in 1972. Historically, it was considered one of the most northerly vineyards in England when first planted.The vineyard's primary role today is as a historical and educational feature within the palace grounds. Due to disease, the vines no longer consistently produce a viable crop for commercial wine production from their own grapes. Efforts, including a "Vineyard Community Project," have been made to work on the vines with the aim of restoring their productivity for educational purposes.
There is no on-site winery at the palace, with any wine previously produced from these grapes involving external partnerships. There is no specific public information regarding organic certification, regenerative practices, or other sustainability recognitions for the vineyard.
Getting here
By Car: Please note there is strictly no public parking available directly at the palace. Visitors should use city centre car parks in Lincoln.By Public Transport: The nearest major train station is Lincoln Central, approximately a 15-20 minute uphill walk from the palace. Taxis are also readily available from the station.
What's nearby
- Notable Restaurants:
- Notable Hotels:
- The Old Palace Lodge: A luxury bed and breakfast sympathetically converted from an older building within the palace enclosure, offering historic charm and close proximity. Website
- The White Hart Hotel: A historic hotel with roots dating back to the 14th century, situated near Lincoln Cathedral and Lincoln Castle. Website
- Notable Attractions:
