Rich heritage on show at Discover Lincolnshire

THOUSANDS of people have taken advantage of a free entry promotion at top visitor attractions to explore the county's history.

Dozens of free events across Lincoln and the rest of the county made up the Discover Lincolnshire event which took place over Saturday and Sunday.

Over the whole weekend, 15th-century re-enactments took place at Lincoln Castle, including battles, a tour of the Victorian prison, longbow archery and falconry.

Mike Gerry, of Wragby Road, Lincoln, visited the castle on Saturday and said: "Full marks to the castle for a great display on Saturday.

"The 'prisoners' were an entertaining feature to the experience. Just 'borrowed' the five ducks – a likely tale."

Visitors to Lincoln Cathedral could enter for free on Saturday to drink in its gothic glory and search for the infamous Lincoln Imp.

Tours included a peek at the cathedral library and Romanesque sculptures removed from the West Front, which are rarely seen by visitors.

There were free walking tours around the city, which included the Bailgate, Roman Lincoln and the city's Jewish heritage – all accompanied by stories of the city's past.

Site co-ordinator at the castle Kimberley Walshaw said there had been 3,500 visitors on Saturday alone.

She said: "A lot of people have really enjoyed the living history groups and generally, we've had positive feedback."

Also on the trail was the St Katherine's Heritage Project – one of the most recent additions to Lincoln's attractions. The project is housed inside the estored Wesleyan church and charts the site's 900-year history through displays and relics.

The weekend was aimed at encouraging county residents to get out and see what is in their area and to kick-start Lincolnshire's contribution for British Tourism Week.

Penny Baker, chief executive for event organiser Visit Lincolnshire, said: "This weekend is a perfect chance for local people to explore the range of great attractions that are on their doorstep.

"We have been working with attractions all over the county encouraging them to open their doors for free so we can showcase Lincolnshire to residents and a visitor before the season begins."

Lincoln's High Street hosted a French market throughout the weekend, organised by the Lincoln Business Improvement Group.

In North Kesteven, Cogglesford Mill, Cranwell Aviation Heritage Centre, the Lincolnshire Road Transport Museum, Mrs Smith's Cottage, Whisby Natural World Centre and The Hub, were open for free.

And in West Lindsey people could take in the greenery at Goltho Gardens – a project that saw a garden created from a derelict chunk of wasteland.

Gainsborough Old Hall, RAF Scampton Historical Museum and Bransby Home of Rest for Horses were also open.

For information on where to go and stay in Lincolnshire, go to www.visitlincolnshire.com