🏰 THE LNER STADIUM 🏰
Lincoln City – Your Complete Travel Guide
🏟️ ABOUT THE LNER STADIUM
The LNER Stadium – still affectionately known as Sincil Bank by fans – is a proper traditional football ground with bags of character, nestled on the southern edge of Lincoln city centre. With a capacity of 10,669, the ground has been Lincoln City’s home since 1895 and sits in a wonderfully convenient spot, just a short walk from both the city centre and Lincoln Central railway station. The stadium is dominated by the impressive GMB Stand, which stretches the full length of the pitch and holds around 5,700 supporters.
Opposite sits the shorter Rilmac Stand, whilst the Stacey West Stand (named after two lifelong supporters tragically lost in the Bradford City fire) houses visiting fans behind one goal. Perhaps the most striking thing about the LNER Stadium is the view – Lincoln Cathedral looms majestically overhead, visible from virtually every corner of the ground, creating one of the most distinctive backdrops in English football. The University of Lincoln Fan Village behind the Rilmac Stand adds a brilliant pre-match atmosphere, and the ground has undergone significant investment in recent years to modernise facilities whilst retaining its traditional charm.
Lincoln City – The Imps – were founded in 1884 and have a proud history stretching back over 140 years. Nicknamed after the legendary Lincoln Imp, a mischievous stone creature said to live inside Lincoln Cathedral, the club became a founder member of the Football League Second Division in 1892.
The red and white stripes are iconic in the East Midlands, and the club’s heritage is deeply woven into the fabric of this ancient city. Perhaps the most remarkable chapter in recent history came in the 2016-17 season, when Lincoln – then a non-league side – became the first team in over 100 years to reach the FA Cup quarter-finals, beating Premier League side Burnley along the way before eventually falling to Arsenal.
That extraordinary cup run captured the nation’s hearts and cemented Lincoln City’s reputation as a club that punches well above its weight. The rivalries with fellow Lincolnshire clubs Grimsby Town and Scunthorpe United generate genuine local passion, whilst matches against clubs like Mansfield, Peterborough, and Hull City also carry serious regional significance. Lincoln City represent everything that’s brilliant about grassroots English football – a passionate, proud fanbase and a club that truly matters to its community.
📊 STADIUM SPECIFICATIONS
| Capacity | 10,669 (all seated) |
| Opened | 1895 – over 130 years of history! |
| Away Section | Stacey West Stand |
| Away Allocation | Typically around 2,000 seats |
| Record Attendance | 10,346 vs Sunderland (League One, March 2022) |
🚗 GETTING TO THE LNER STADIUM
The LNER Stadium is brilliantly located for visiting supporters – it’s just a 15-minute walk south from Lincoln Central railway station, making it one of the more accessible grounds in League One. The stadium sits on Sincil Bank, on the southern edge of the city centre, and is well signposted from the main roads.
Whether you’re arriving by train from London, Sheffield, Nottingham, or further afield, you’ll find the journey to the ground is straightforward and pleasant. If you’re driving, the A46 is your main route in, and parking is available at South Common Car Park, a short walk from the ground. Lincoln is a genuinely lovely city to visit, so we’d heartily recommend arriving a couple of hours early to take in the sights before kickoff – you won’t regret it!
🗺️ STADIUM LOCATION MAP
LNER Stadium Address: Sincil Bank, Lincoln, LN5 8LD
🚂 BY TRAIN – A Brilliant Way In
Why Trains Work Brilliantly Here: Lincoln Central Station is only a 15-minute walk from the LNER Stadium, making this one of the easiest grounds to reach by rail in the Football League. The station is served by LNER, East Midlands Railway, and Northern Rail, with good connections from across the Midlands and the North. The walk from the station to the ground takes you along the High Street, past some cracking pubs – perfect for a pre-match pint on the way!
Journey Times to Lincoln Central Station:
🔴 London King’s Cross: approx. 1 hr 50 mins – 2 hrs 15 mins (LNER direct or via Newark)
🟠 Birmingham New Street: approx. 1 hr 55 mins – 2 hrs (change at Nottingham)
🟡 Leicester: approx. 1 hr 20 mins – 1 hr 55 mins (via Newark or Peterborough)
🟢 Sheffield: approx. 1 hr 15 mins – 1 hr 25 mins (via Retford or Doncaster)
🔵 Nottingham: approx. 55 mins – 1 hr (East Midlands Railway direct)
🟣 Doncaster: approx. 1 hr (Northern Rail direct)
Getting from Lincoln Central Station to the LNER Stadium
🚶 Walking (15 minutes)
Turn left out of the station and head up to the traffic lights next to St Mary’s Church. Turn left onto the High Street, crossing over the railway level crossing. Walk along the High Street for about 10 minutes – this is a lovely stretch with plenty of pubs if you fancy a quick one – then turn left into Scorer Street. Walk along Scorer Street until you reach the bridge over the Sincil Drain, then turn right onto Sincil Bank, and the ground is straight ahead. Lovely and straightforward!
🚌 Bus (10 minutes)
Several bus routes stop at South Park Roundabout, which is a short walk from the stadium. Routes 1, 1D, 7, 7A, 13, 14, 24A, 27, and 27A all serve this stop. Check lincsbus.info for current timetables and routes.
🚕 Taxi (5 minutes, approx. £8)
There’s a taxi rank right outside Lincoln Central station, and the fare to the LNER Stadium is typically around £8. Taxis are plentiful in Lincoln – a handy option if you’re arriving with a big group or in poor weather.
💡 Top Tip: The walk from the station along the High Street is genuinely one of the nicest station-to-ground routes in the Football League. There are brilliant pubs all along the way, so arrive a bit early and soak up the atmosphere as you stroll to the ground!
🔗 Train Times & Tickets: nationalrail.co.uk | thetrainline.com
🔗 Lincoln City Official Site: redimps.co.uk
🚗 BY CAR – Getting There & Parking Up
Lincoln is well connected by road, with the A46, A1, and A15 nearby. The LNER Stadium is just off the A15, and the ground is well signposted once you’re in the city. We’d still recommend the train if you can – it’s easy, stress-free, and means everyone in the group can enjoy a pint! But if you must drive, here’s what you need to know.
If You’re Driving:
- From the South (A46): Follow the A46 into Lincoln, which leads onto the High Street. The ground is well signposted from there – look for signs for away coaches onto the A158 South Park Avenue.
- From the North/East (A15): The A15 brings you directly past the stadium area. Follow the signs for Sincil Bank, and you’ll find the ground easily.
- From the West (A46 via Newark): Continue on the A46 through Newark-on-Trent and into Lincoln. The same routing applies once you reach the city.
Parking Options:
- South Common Car Park (LN5 8LN): This is your best bet – a dedicated matchday car park just a 5–10 minute walk from the ground. It costs around £6–7 if you book in advance via eticketing.co.uk/imps, slightly more on the gate. Book online to guarantee your spot!
- Waterside North Car Park (LN2 5DQ): On Saturdays and bank holidays, this city centre car park charges just £2.60 – a bargain! It’s about a 15-minute walk to the ground.
- Street Parking: Much of the immediate area around the stadium is now permit-only, so don’t risk it near the stadium. Stick to the designated car parks.
💡 Top Tip: If you’re driving, book South Common Car Park in advance online – it’s the most convenient option and guarantees you a space. Post-match, the exit routes back to the A46 are generally smooth, so you shouldn’t face too much hassle getting away.
🍺 PUBS & DRINKS NEAR THE LNER STADIUM
⚠️ IMPORTANT ADVICE: The good news is that Lincoln is generally very welcoming to away fans – the city has a relaxed attitude to visiting supporters in most of its pubs, provided you’re sensible and respectful. The pubs closest to the stadium itself tend to be home-fan strongholds, so head into the city centre or along the High Street for the best away-fan experience. The University of Lincoln Fan Village at the ground is open to all fans and is a great option if you’d rather stay close to the stadium pre-match.
🍺 High Street & City Centre Pubs (Safe for Away Fans)
🍺 The Golden Eagle (21 High Street, Lincoln, LN5 8BD)
A gorgeous 18th-century coaching inn that’s been serving Lincoln for centuries. Up to nine cask ales on the pumps plus over 50 craft beers – this is proper ale enthusiast territory. It buzzes with energy on matchdays and welcomes away fans warmly. The beer garden out back is lovely on decent days. A brilliant first stop off the High Street, a short walk from the station.
Distance to Stadium: 8 mins walk | Price: ££
🍺 The Ritz (Wetherspoons) (143–147 High Street, Lincoln, LN5 7PJ)
Housed in a historic former cinema, The Ritz is a spacious and welcoming Wetherspoons that’s well established as an away-fan-friendly pub. Big, comfortable, good selection of beers and ales at Wetherspoons prices. A reliable and budget-friendly option, especially handy given its position right on the High Street between the station and the ground.
Distance to Stadium: 10 mins walk | Price: £
🍺 The Strugglers Inn (29–31 The Strait, Lincoln, LN2 1JD)
An absolute gem of a traditional pub tucked away on The Strait – the narrow cobbled street that leads up towards Steep Hill. Thousands of quirky beer mats adorning the walls and ceilings, an open fire, and what many consider the best real ale selection in Lincoln. It’s cosy, character-filled, and genuinely one of the most charming pubs in the East Midlands. Dog-friendly too!
Distance to Stadium: 12 mins walk | Price: ££
🍺 The Square Sail (Wetherspoons) (Brayford Wharf, Lincoln, LN1 1YA)
Down on the beautiful Brayford Waterfront, The Square Sail is reportedly one of the most popular pubs with away supporters. It’s a big, relaxed Wetherspoons with lovely waterfront views, a decent food menu, and that classic Wetherspoons value. A great option if you’re basing yourself near the waterfront for the day.
Distance to Stadium: 15 mins walk | Price: £
🍺 Witch & Wardrobe (21 Waterside North, Lincoln, LN2 5DQ)
A quirky, fun bar on the waterfront with a good range of drinks and a lively pre-match atmosphere. The name alone tells you it’s got personality! It’s on the Brayford Waterfront area, which is a great spot to spend an hour or so soaking in the Lincoln vibe before heading to the ground.
Distance to Stadium: 15 mins walk | Price: ££
⚠️ Near the Stadium (Exercise Caution)
⚠️ Gwynnes Social Club (Shakespeare Street, Lincoln, LN5 8JX)
This is a well-known home-fans-only venue – a popular Lincoln City supporters’ club with pool tables, darts, and snooker. You need to buzz to get in, and it gets very busy before kickoff. Please don’t try to pop in as an away fan – it’s not the place for you on matchday.
⚠️ Caution advised – home fans only
🍽️ Food Options: Lincoln has a fantastic food scene for a city of its size. The city centre and High Street area offer a great mix of restaurants and takeaways. For a quick bite near the ground, Back of the Net is a recommended fish-and-chip shop just a couple of minutes from the away entrance. At the stadium itself, the University of Lincoln Fan Village (open from 16:45) serves food from Barbell Burger and Curry Jacks – both well recommended by visiting fans.
For a proper sit-down meal, head to the city centre where you’ll find options like Ole Ole (Spanish tapas on The Lawn), La Trattoria Da Vincenzo (Italian on West Parade), and Slow Rise (8–12 St Martin’s Lane) – all within easy walking distance.
🏰 Lincoln Tip: The Fan Village behind the Rilmac Stand is open to both home and away fans from 16:45 – it’s free to enter, has live entertainment, and is a cracking spot to grab food and a drink right at the ground without having to venture further afield.
🏨 WHERE TO STAY IN LINCOLN
Lincoln is a brilliant overnight destination – genuinely one of the most attractive small cities in England, and there’s plenty to keep you busy on a matchday weekend. The city centre has a good range of hotels, guesthouses, and B&Bs to suit most budgets. We’d strongly recommend making a weekend of it – there’s so much to see and do that a single day barely scratches the surface. Book in advance if you’re visiting for a big fixture, as the best options fill up quickly!
💷 Budget Options (£40–£70 per night)
Holiday Inn Express Lincoln City Centre
A purpose-built, no-fuss hotel near the Brayford Waterfront, opposite the University of Lincoln. Complimentary continental breakfast is included with every room – always handy! It’s a 10-minute walk to Lincoln Central station and about a 20-minute walk to the LNER Stadium. Clean, comfortable, and great value. Sky Sports is on the TVs in the lobby bar, too.
Location: Brayford Park | Book: ihg.com
Damons Hotel
A solid budget option in the city centre, offering straightforward, comfortable rooms at sensible prices. Handy for the High Street and the various pubs and restaurants Lincoln has to offer. A popular choice with visitors who want a central base without paying through the nose.
Location: City Centre | Book: booking.com
💷💷 Mid-Range Options (£70–£130 per night)
Holiday Inn Lincoln
Sitting right on the gorgeous Brayford Waterfront with stunning views over the marina and across to Lincoln Cathedral, this is a top spot for a comfortable overnight stay. On-site restaurant, fitness centre, and a Starbucks in the lobby. Kids stay and eat free, which is a nice bonus. Less than half a mile to Lincoln Central station – very convenient.
Location: Brayford Wharf North | Book: hilincoln.co.uk
The Rest Hotel
A boutique hotel nestled in the shadows of Lincoln Cathedral itself – you genuinely can’t beat the location for atmosphere. It’s at the top of Steep Hill in the Cathedral Quarter, perfect if you want to be right in the heart of historic Lincoln. Quirky and characterful, with lovely views and easy access to the independent shops and cafés.
Location: Cathedral Quarter | Book: booking.com
💷💷💷 Luxury Options (£130+ per night)
The White Hart Hotel
A stunning boutique hotel on Bailgate, right in the Cathedral Quarter – this is Lincoln at its very finest. Antique-furnished bedrooms with views of the cathedral just outside your window, and a reputation for excellent service and food. It’s where Tom Hanks stayed whilst filming The Da Vinci Code in Lincoln, which tells you everything you need to know about the quality. A truly special place for a weekend away.
Location: Bailgate, Cathedral Quarter | Book: booking.com
⚠️ Booking Advice
Lincoln is a popular destination year-round, and prices can rise around major events or during the annual Christmas Market season (late November/December). If you’re visiting for a weekend, book well in advance – especially if you want one of the lovely Cathedral Quarter hotels. The Brayford Waterfront area and the city centre both offer excellent options at various price points. If Lincoln is fully booked, Nottingham (about an hour by train) provides a much wider choice of accommodation and is easily accessible for matchday. (See the Nottingham Forest travel guide for more info)
🎯 THINGS TO DO IN LINCOLN
Lincoln is one of the most genuinely beautiful cities in England, and it’s absolutely crammed with history, culture, and charm. From one of the finest cathedrals in the country to a Norman castle, ancient Roman ruins, and one of the most picturesque streets you’ll ever walk, there is so much to see and do here. Whether you’re making a day of it or staying the weekend, Lincoln rewards you handsomely. It’s a proper gem of a place to explore!
🏛️ Lincoln Cathedral (Must Visit!)
This is the big one – and it absolutely deserves its reputation. Lincoln Cathedral is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture and was once the tallest building in the entire world, holding that record for over 200 years. The interior is breathtaking – soaring vaulted ceilings, stunning stained-glass windows, and incredible medieval stonework throughout. You simply must find the famous Lincoln Imp – a mischievous stone creature perched high up in the Angel Choir that gave the football club its nickname. The cathedral also features prominently in The Da Vinci Code, and you can even spot the Rose Line marker from the film. Tower tours offer panoramic views across Lincolnshire. Allow at least an hour to do it justice!
Cost: Suggested donation | Info: lincolncathedral.com | Time: Allow 1–1.5 hours
🏰 Lincoln Castle (Must Visit!)
Built by William the Conqueror in 1068, Lincoln Castle is one of the best-preserved Norman castles in England and an absolute must-see. The highlight is the Medieval Wall Walk – a stunning 360-degree trail around the castle walls offering panoramic views across the city and out over Lincolnshire. Inside, you can explore a fascinating Victorian prison and, most importantly, see one of only four surviving original copies of the 1215 Magna Carta, housed in a purpose-built vault.
The castle grounds are gorgeous and free to wander – a lovely spot for a picnic or just to sit and take in the views. Combo tickets with the Cathedral offer great value.
Cost: approx. £17 adults (wall walk, prison & Magna Carta) | Info: lincolncastle.com | Time: Allow 1.5–2 hours
🧗 Steep Hill & The Strait (Must Visit!)
Steep Hill is one of the most photographed and beloved streets in all of England – a gloriously steep, cobblestoned medieval thoroughfare lined with independent shops, quirky cafés, vintage boutiques, and hidden gems. It was voted Britain’s Great Street in 2012 and connects the busy High Street at the bottom to the Cathedral Quarter at the top.
The gradient is genuinely challenging (it’s called Steep Hill for a reason!), but the incredible shops and stunning views make every step worthwhile. At the very top, you emerge onto Castle Hill – a cobbled square with the cathedral on one side and the castle on the other. Pure magic. Take your time, pop into the shops, grab a coffee, and soak it all in.
Cost: Free | Info: visitlincoln.com | Time: Allow 45 mins – 1 hour
✈️ International Bomber Command Centre
This is a genuinely moving and world-class memorial and museum, located on Canwick Hill just outside the city. It tells the story of RAF Bomber Command during World War II – Lincolnshire earned the title of ‘Bomber County’ due to the sheer number of RAF bases in the region. The 31-metre tall Memorial Spire (the same height as a Lancaster Bomber’s wingspan) is stunning, and the Walls of Names carry the names of almost 58,000 men and women who lost their lives.
The Peace Gardens are free to visit and offer beautiful views across to Lincoln Cathedral – the same sight that guided bombers home. The exhibition inside is interactive, immersive, and deeply respectful. A truly special experience, and well worth a visit if you’re making a weekend of it.
Cost: £12 adults (Peace Gardens & Spire free) | Info: internationalbcc.co.uk | Time: Allow 1.5–2 hours
🌊 Brayford Waterfront
The Brayford Pool is Britain’s oldest recorded harbour, dating all the way back to Roman times – so you’re literally walking along history itself! The modern Waterfront area is a lovely spot to spend an hour or so, with a mix of restaurants, cafés, bars, and a cinema lining the water’s edge.
It’s a great spot for a leisurely stroll, a coffee, or a bite to eat. The waterfront views, particularly in the evening with the buildings reflected in the water, are genuinely gorgeous. Perfect for a relaxing pre-match or post-match wander.
Cost: Free | Info: visitlincoln.com | Time: Allow 45 mins
Nearby Attractions
Museum of Lincolnshire Life & The Collection:
Two excellent museums in the city – the Museum of Lincolnshire Life explores the county’s heritage and traditions, whilst The Collection houses archaeological finds from Roman and medieval Lincoln, including impressive artefacts. Both are well worth a look if you have time. lincolnmuseums.org
Sincil Bank Art Project:
Keep your eyes peeled on your walk to the stadium – the residential area around the ground has been transformed by a brilliant art project, with giant colourful murals painted on the walls of houses. It’s a lovely little surprise and adds genuine character to the matchday walk!
🏰 THE LINCOLN EXPERIENCE
🏛️ Ancient City: Lincoln has been a major settlement since Roman times – you’re walking through over 2,000 years of history every step you take!
🧵 Independent Shopping: Steep Hill and the Bailgate area are brilliant for unique, independent shops – miles away from your usual high street chains!
🌊 Waterfront Vibes: The Brayford Waterfront is a gorgeous spot to relax – Britain’s oldest harbour with a brilliant modern entertainment scene!
🎨 Street Art: The Sincil Bank Art Project has turned the area around the stadium into an open-air gallery – spot the brilliant murals on your walk to the ground!
⚽ THE MATCHDAY EXPERIENCE
🏰 The Cathedral Backdrop: Lincoln Cathedral looming over the ground is one of the most stunning stadium views in English football – soak it in!
✈️ Dam Busters Tradition: You’ll hear the Dam Busters theme and air raid sirens echoing from the stands – a proud nod to Lincolnshire’s RAF heritage!
🍔 Fan Village: The University of Lincoln Fan Village opens at 16:45 and is free for all – great food, live entertainment, and a proper pre-match buzz!
🎪 Traditional Ground: The LNER Stadium has genuine character and a proper, intimate atmosphere – this is grassroots English football at its very best!
💭 FINAL THOUGHTS
Visiting the LNER Stadium is a genuinely special away day experience – one that delivers on every front. The ground itself has real character and charm, with that iconic Lincoln Cathedral backdrop creating one of the most distinctive views in the Football League. The Stacey West Stand gives visiting fans a decent allocation of around 2,000 seats, and the atmosphere inside is intimate and electric – you really do feel close to the action here.
The Fan Village behind the Rilmac Stand adds a brilliant pre-match buzz, and the food and drink options at the ground are genuinely good for League One. Lincoln City fans are overwhelmingly friendly and welcoming, and the relaxed attitude towards visiting supporters throughout the city makes the whole experience feel easy and enjoyable. This is proper traditional football done right, in a ground that wears its history proudly on its sleeve.
But honestly, the LNER Stadium is almost secondary to the real star of the show – the city of Lincoln itself. This is one of the most stunning, characterful, and historically rich cities in England, and it absolutely deserves more visitors than it gets. Lincoln Cathedral is breathtaking, Lincoln Castle is fascinating, and Steep Hill is one of the most beautiful streets you’ll ever walk in this country.
The Brayford Waterfront is gorgeous, the independent shops are brilliant, and the pubs are warm and welcoming. Whether you have time for a quick stroll before the match or you’re making a proper weekend of it, Lincoln rewards you handsomely.
The International Bomber Command Centre, just outside the city, adds another incredibly moving and world-class attraction to the mix. Make no mistake – this is a destination well worth exploring properly.
The practical side couldn’t be easier – Lincoln Central station is just a 15-minute walk from the ground, and the journey times from across the Midlands and the North are very reasonable. The High Street walk from station to stadium is a pleasure in itself, especially with a couple of cracking pubs to stop at along the way.
We’d heartily recommend arriving two or three hours early, grabbing a pint at The Golden Eagle or The Ritz, having a wander around the High Street, and then strolling down to the ground in good time.
Better yet, book a night in one of Lincoln’s lovely hotels, spend the Saturday exploring the cathedral, castle, and Steep Hill, then enjoy the match on Sunday. Either way, an away day to Lincoln is one to savour – a proper gem of a trip that combines brilliant football with one of England’s finest cities. Don’t miss it!
Take the train to Lincoln, admire the stunning cathedral, walk the magnificent Steep Hill, and experience the LNER Stadium where the Imps roar beneath the spires!
❤️🤍 Come On You Imps! ❤️🤍
📞 USEFUL CONTACTS
🏟️ Lincoln City FC: 01522 880011 | redimps.co.uk
🎫 Ticket Office: 01522 880011 | redimps.co.uk/tickets
🚂 National Rail: 03457 48 49 50 | nationalrail.co.uk
🚌 Lincolnshire Buses: lincsbus.info
ℹ️ Visit Lincoln: visitlincoln.com
🏛️ Lincoln Cathedral: 01522 561294 | lincolncathedral.com
✈️ International Bomber Command Centre: 01522 514755 | internationalbcc.co.uk
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🏰 Part of the Football Nonsense League One Away Days Collection
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John Herman is a Leeds-based, would-be football writer and founder of Football Nonsense. Blending fan passion with sharp opinion, he tackles the game’s biggest debates—from the terraces to the boardroom—with honesty, humour, and heart.