Last year marked the 40th anniversary of Lincoln Christmas Market. The event lasted four days in December and boasted over 250 stalls, creating an atmosphere of exceptional festivity.
Lincoln Christmas Market 2023
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Important update: Lincoln Christmas Market is permanently cancelled.
The Lincoln Christmas Market in the UK, which had been a cherished tradition for several decades, has been permanently cancelled.
The announcement was made through a press release that recognised the efforts of all those who had contributed to the market’s success over the years, including traders, charities, visitors, residents and management.
The statement acknowledged the event’s unique character, which was a sum of its parts and had become an important cultural touchstone for the Christmas market industry in the UK.
The cancellation of the market due to financial challenges and logistical issues has left many feeling a deep sense of loss and nostalgia.
As the press release states, whatever comes next, it is important to honour the legacy of the Lincoln Christmas Market and the community of people who made it a reality for so many years.
If you were planning to attend the Lincoln Christmas Market and are still keen on experiencing a festive market this year, you might like one of the suggestions on this list of the best Christmas markets UK as an alternative in 2023.
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Lincoln Cathedral is an incredible piece of history in the centre of the city. But that’s not all there is to see. Visit Steep Hill, Newport Arch, Stonebow, Lincoln Castle and High Bridge, the oldest bridge in the UK. Given that the Christmas market only runs for 4 days, why not longer to explore the city further?
You’ll find local and international gifts, decorations and delicious food at the Christmas chalets. Lining Castle Hill between Lincoln Cathedral and Lincoln Castle, as well as the surrounding area, there’s plenty of space to enjoy the markets with your friends and family.
Lincoln Christmas Market dates: Cancelled in 2023.
Opening times: Permanently closed.
Cost: Admission is free.
Location: Cathedral Quarter including Castle Hill between Lincoln Cathedral and Lincoln Castle, The Lawn and in the castle grounds.
Reason to visit: This is the first German-style Christmas market in the UK.
Specialities: German Christmas specialties, Lincolnshire sausages, Poacher cheese and locally made gin.
Where to stay: The Castle Hotel is only 2 minutes from the Christmas market.
Hotels near Lincoln Christmas Market
Many of Lincoln’s sights and attractions are found in the Cathedral Quarter, which is Lincoln Christmas Market’s location.
I suggest staying at the Castle Hotel as it’s 200 metres and a 2-minute walk to the Christmas markets. It’s close enough to be within easy access but far enough away from the noise of the event.
Location of Lincoln Christmas Market
Find more of the best Christmas markets in the United Kingdom with this updated guide. Discover where to go, things to do and the best places to experience British food, history and culture.
Stop by the Lincoln Visitor Centre where the local staff can help with any enquiries while you’re there. They can provide you with city maps, information about what’s on and how to get around the city. The visitor centre is located in Cathedral Quarter and is open 7 days per week.
Sustainable Travel Tips
The choices we make have an environmental and social impact on the places we visit. When visiting the Christmas markets, keeping sustainability in mind is important. Implement some or all of these responsible travel measures during your visit.
- Shop mindfully. Only purchase what you really need.
- Walk, cycle and use public transport to get around.
- Stay in a sustainable hotel powered by renewable energy.
- Avoid using plastic or buying items made or packaged with plastic.
- Try to eat locally sourced organic food where possible.
- Limit your consumption of meat and dairy.
- Support the arts and attend local events.
FAQ
The Christmas market was previously held over 4 days in December. In 2023, the market vendors announced its permanent closure.
The Christmas market takes place along Castle Hill between Lincoln Cathedral and Lincoln Castle.
The Christmas market opens at 10am, except on 1st December when it opens at midday.
The Christmas market closes at 9:30pm, except on 4th December when it closes at 7pm.
There is no parking at the Christmas market. Instead, a dedicated Park and Ride service is available at the Lincolnshire Showground. Buses run every 7 minutes to the Museum of Lincolnshire Life.
If you have visited Lincoln in winter or want to leave a review of Lincoln Xmas Market, please comment below. This helps others interested in visiting and trying to plan their holiday.
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Recommendations are independently chosen based on personal travel experiences and extensive research. This post contains affiliate links to hotels and tours in Lincoln, UK. This means I get a small commission from any bookings at no extra cost to you.
I have gone to the Lincoln Xmas market every year for the last 10 years. I am sooooo disappointed it is not happening I always brought my friends from London and we came on the train from my house in Retford we all loved it so much. It was far better than all the others. This is a huge disappointment