In anticipation for Museum day on the 18th of May, here are a few different museums dotted around Lincoln which you’ll be able to visit once indoor events can once again be held.
Lincoln Castle
Located directly parallel to Lincoln Cathedral, Lincoln Castle holds some of Lincoln’s most intriguing history within its vaults. The main attraction is the original copy of the Magna Carta famously signed by King John in 1215. Along with this the Charter of the Forest, a document giving rights of access to the king’s royal forest, is also often displayed at certain points throughout the year. Both items are joined by items loaned from other museum collections from around the world, making the visit well worth it. If you plan a visit however it is important to double-check the dates that the Magna Carta is displayed as due to its historical importance, it is often rested in storage. Within the vault, you’ll also find a 210-degree screen with information about King John as well as Chaucer. If you wish to learn more about the Magna Carter there is a full translation found on the British Library website here as well as a transcript of the Charter of the Forest found here.
Mrs Smith’s Cottage
Found in Navenby Lincoln, this cottage provides a look into life throughout the 20th century living in Lincoln. Now open to visitors, the cottage has been preserved as it was the last time it was lived in since 1995. Mrs Smith was a well-known member of the local community in Navenby and her cottage provides insight into her life where simplicity was valued. The cottage itself is a historical artefact, with connections to contemporary Navenby and the community of today. This museum is more like a living time capsule as you interact with the building and its contents, it’s a pretty interesting place for people new to Lincoln to explore and get a real sense of what shaped modern Lincoln. To learn more about Mrs Smith and who she was as a person visit this link.
Museum of Lincolnshire Life
If you wish to examine the cultural history of Lincolnshire through the different ages visit the Museum of Lincolnshire Life. Just a 10-minute walk from Lincoln Castle the Victorian Barracks, the museum houses a collection of agricultural, domestic, industrial and commercial artefacts. It holds a record of the history of Lincolnshire dating from 1750, including tanks used in World War One. In fact, it is assumed that these tanks may have even been the first used in the war. Lincoln is steeped in a deep history which is celebrated with the beautiful items within the museum. They even go as far as to have recreations of shops to create an immersive experience of what life may have been in the past. Overall it offers a unique look into Lincolnshire’s past which is reflected through the wide variety of things on display.
These are just a few of the many different museums across Lincoln, each with something different to offer. Hopefully one piqued your interest enough to take a trip!
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