The Best Cottages and Holiday Rentals to Book in Lincoln, England

Local historians believe King Arthur spent considerable time in Lincolnshire. That link to the legendary leader and his knights is reflected in the names of the four self-catering cottages at Tennyson Court: Arthur, Guinevere, Maud and Shalott. Of the four, the brooding Guinevere is the real showstopper, with a king-size rattan bed, black bedside tables and a red crystal chandelier.

Not only does Watermill Farm showcase Lincolnshire in all its bucolic splendour, it also does its bit for the environment. Each cottage here has underfloor central heating, powered with biomass pellets. The working farm is also great for wildlife and bird spotting, so keep your eyes peeled for the resident roe deer, barn owls and the odd kingfisher helping itself to dinner from the pond.

Let’s not beat around the bush – while the interior design at Wild Cherry Barn is fabulous, the real selling point is the huge hot tub out back, allowing you and your friends to lounge and look out over the Lincolnshire countryside. Wild Cherry is one of five linked luxury barn conversions by Ashlin Farm Barns that are arranged around private courtyards and located near a meadow, woodland and a nature reserve – ideal for a brisk walk.

One of the five luxury Ashlin barn conversions, Holly Tree has a marvellous open-plan design, making it ideal for family getaways. Much of your time will be spent in the downstairs area, with its large, well-stocked kitchen, mammoth dining table and comfy seating area with log burner. The private garden has south and west views, meaning you’ll have a front row seat for some beautiful sunsets.

With stylish apartments that sleep two, Dower House is particularly popular with travelling couples. It’s set in a stunning Victorian house designed by William Burns, and you’ll find everything here to make yourself at home – a flat-screen TV, dishwasher, microwave and toiletries. Apartment 6 also comes with a separate office, making it a good spot for business travellers.

There are few better places to stay for first-timers in Lincoln than the centrally located Cathedral Mews Townhouse. Must-see sights including Lincoln Castle, Lincoln Cathedral and the annual Lincoln Christmas Market are all nearby. You’re also surrounded by the best bars and restaurants, and can stroll to the point where the River Witham meets the Fossdyke Navigation at Brayford Pool.

Thanks to some huge windows, the powder-blue De La Haye Apartment is bathed in glorious sunlight, making it a joy to hang out in the lounge area. Wooden floors and a comfortable bed and couch add to the enjoyment, as do all the mod cons you can think of, including a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, a fully equipped kitchen and a washing machine.

This capacious four-bed house is a dream spot for a family holiday. Particularly nice is how the lounge area opens onto a paved patio with outdoor sofas, lovely views and a hot tub. If you’re staying in winter, there’s a fireplace to keep things cosy, while the nearby Woodside Wildlife Park is great for a day out.

A central location near Lincoln Cathedral is reason enough to pick this recently converted cottage, but there is so much more. Exposed beams and a fireplace make it an extremely inviting perch with a lot of character, while the separate dining area with large windows overlooking the garden only adds to the charm.