New figures reveal Lincolnshire County Council’s cultural attractions were visited 1.5 million times and boosted the county’s economy by £15 million last year.
The council manages a portfolio of much-loved cultural venues, including Lincoln Castle, Lincoln Museum, The Usher Gallery, The Battle of Britain Memorial Flight Visitor Centre, and The Museum of Lincolnshire Life.
Now, the economic and cultural impact of the sites has been revealed in a new report.
Figures show Lincoln’s castle alone generates £11 million to the county. Sell-out events like the Live at Lincoln Castle concert series and the Illuminated light spectacle have established the attraction as a key entertainment space.
The events – coupled with historic displays of internationally important artefacts like Magna Carta – have inspired people to travel from around the world to discover Lincoln for the first time.
The report also shows how other sites play a crucial role in bringing learning to life and connecting communities closer to home.
More than 20,000 school children visit the cultural attractions every year, with a variety of hands-on workshops inspiring the next generation.
Between April 2024 and March 2025 Lincolnshire’s network of 15 core and 34 community hub libraries generated more than £25 million in social value – helping to improve quality of life, boosting educational achievement and relieving pressure on medical services.
Family-friendly library events – including Costume Creator sessions – proved especially popular with young readers. Children crafted costumes inspired by The Hungry Caterpillar and Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, immersing themselves in the stories and bringing beloved characters to life.
The economic impact of the county’s cultural attractions is set to grow further thanks to the ambitious £1.7 million re-development of Lincoln Museum. When the attraction open its doors again next year, visitors will be able to explore a new archaeology gallery, featuring interactive displays and hands-on experiences.
Cllr Natalie Oliver, executive councillor for culture, said: “From exploring 1,000 years of history at our stunning castle, to honouring the brave heroes who defended our country from Lincolnshire’s airfields at The Battle of Britain Memorial Flight Visitor Centre, our cultural attractions do an incredible job of celebrating Lincolnshire’s proud heritage.
“While we know how loved the sites are by schoolchildren, local residents and tourists alike, this report goes further, underlining the vital economic and cultural benefits they bring to our great county.
“Generating £15 million to Lincolnshire’s economy is a great achievement, but there is even more to come. I know lots of people are as excited as I am to see Lincoln Museum re-open next year, with a brand-new gallery inviting visitors to explore our incredible heritage like never before.”
Image shows Lincoln Castle. Credit: Stock.adobe.com/chrisdorney
