Magical and mystical creatures are set to create an Enchanted Castle in Lincoln, alongside medieval jousting, Coronation celebrations and even a chance to become a Dragon Warrior.
Lincoln Castle has just unveiled its event programme for the 2023 season, and there’s a touch of magic and mystery running through the year.
For Easter, Enchanted! will see Lincoln Castle’s resident wizard asking for visitors’ help to find mythical creatures (1 – 16 April), while in the summer the grounds will be transformed into a magical world for The Enchanted Castle (24 – 25 June).
During May half term, there’s a mythical twist on the theme with the Here Be Dragons! Castle Quest (29 May –4 June) and youngsters can unleash their inner witches and wizards for Magical Crafts! (5 – 6 August).
And for a weekend in August, visitors can learn the skills needed to become a Dragon Warrior!, before testing them out on an enchanted obstacle course (19 – 20 August).
Among other highlights of the year at the Castle – built by William the Conqueror in 1068 on a site occupied since Roman times – will be a weekend of royal celebrations for The Coronation of His Majesty The King (6 –8 May).
Dressed in national colours, the grounds will host live entertainment from the bandstand as well as plenty of space for visitors to enjoy a picnic to mark the historic event. The Castle grounds will be free to enter over the Bank Holiday, inclusive of the bandstand entertainment. All other admissions apply.
Back this summer is another popular food-themed event, Picnic Social, celebrating the region’s finest produce and entertainment, which returns after a successful launch last year. A food, drink and festival event set in the heart of the medieval Castle, it features day and evening activities (22 – Sunday 30 July).
Also making a return this year after a three year break is the Grand Medieval Joust, when the Castle will echo to the thunder of hooves and the clash of lance on steel armour as brave knights take part in the Sport of Kings (12 – 13 August).
Wrapping up 2023 events at the Castle – which will also include the return of the world’s largest and longest running steampunk festival in August and outdoor summer cinema in September – will be the Christmas light spectacular Lincoln Castle Illuminated (16 –23 December).
One of two Norman gems at the heart of historic Lincoln, the Castle sits high on a hill, opposite Lincoln Cathedral across a cobbled Castle Square, and has dominated the skyline for almost 1000 years. From the Castle’s Medieval Wall Walk visitors have far reaching views not only of the Cathedral, but right across the city and surrounding countryside.
For more details about Lincoln Castle see www.lincolncastle.com
For details about visiting Lincolnshire, see www.visitlincolnshire.com