Tickets are on sale now for the return of Lincoln Castle’s much-loved Christmas light spectacle
Visitors can step inside a winter wonderland full of twinkling lights and festive cheer as Lincoln Castle’s Illuminated event returns bigger and brighter from Friday 21 November 2025.
A magical ice palace is just one of the amazing new features to look forward to, and giant lights spelling out the city’s name, appearing for the first time at the castle, will provide the perfect backdrop for festive family photos.
Visitors of all ages will love the traditional fairground rides and new and enhanced ‘Christmas Express’ ride – climb onboard for an enchanting journey through an avenue of lit Christmas trees!
Those looking for a wonderful vantage point should climb the castle’s iconic medieval walls. Sparkling with 38,000 individual lights, the walls offer stunning views of the light sculptures and festivities below, as well as of the Cathedral and across the city.
All that exploring is sure to work up an appetite, so warm up with a bite to eat and a piping hot cup of traditional mead, mulled wine, or luxurious hot chocolate from the castle’s Langton’s Café, or one of the local stallholders.
Cllr Natalie Oliver, executive councillor for culture at Lincolnshire County Council, said: “Lincoln Castle is an incredible place for families to visit all year round but it takes on an extra special glow as we countdown to Christmas.
“A night making memories among the castle’s twinkling lights is a festive highlight for many families, and this year we’re making the experience even more magical, with more large-scale installations than ever before.
“Lincoln Castle Illuminated is always an extremely popular event, with tickets for many dates selling out last year, so I’d encourage visitors to book their places to avoid disappointment.”
Lincoln Castle Illuminated opens Friday 21 November, running every Wednesday to Sunday all the way through to Tuesday 23 December.
Gates open each weekday evening at 5.30pm, and at 4pm on weekends, closing at 9pm.
The full Illuminated experience – including the Wall Walk – can be enjoyed for £12 (adult), £11 (concession), £7 (child), or you can choose to visit the grounds only for £3 per person (under 5s go free). A range of family ticket options are also available.
Don’t want your four-legged friend to miss the magic? Bring them along to the special dog friendly nights on 26 November and 3, 10 and 17 December.
Book your tickets for a magical night under the lights via the castle website.
