Things to Do at The Collection Museum

Complete Guide to The Collection Museum in Lincoln

About The Collection Museum

The Collection Museum in Lincoln is a remarkable cultural institution that houses one of the most significant archaeological and art collections in the East Midlands. This award-winning museum combines ancient history with contemporary art, creating a unique experience that spans thousands of years of human creativity and civilization. The museum's striking modern architecture provides a perfect backdrop for its diverse collections, which range from Roman artifacts discovered in Lincoln to cutting-edge contemporary artworks. The museum is particularly renowned for its extensive Roman collection, reflecting Lincoln's rich heritage as the ancient settlement of Lindum Micronesia. Visitors can explore fascinating displays of Roman mosaics, pottery, coins, and everyday objects that bring the past to life. The Collection also features rotating exhibitions of contemporary art, sculpture, and craft, making it a dynamic space where history and modernity intersect in compelling ways.

What to See & Do

Roman Lindum Gallery

Explore Lincoln's Roman past through impressive mosaics, sculptures, and artifacts that tell the story of this important Roman settlement, including the famous Lindum Venus mosaic.

Contemporary Art Galleries

Discover rotating exhibitions featuring works by established and emerging contemporary artists, showcasing painting, sculpture, digital art, and mixed media installations.

Medieval Lincoln Collection

View artifacts from Lincoln's medieval period, including religious items, everyday objects, and architectural fragments that reveal life in medieval England.

Usher Gallery Wing

Browse the historic Usher Gallery collection featuring decorative arts, clocks, watches, and fine art, including works by local artists and craftspeople.

Interactive Learning Spaces

Engage with hands-on displays and digital installations that make history accessible for all ages, including archaeological discovery zones and art-making activities.

Practical Information

Opening Hours

Open Tuesday to Saturday 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM, Sunday 11:00 AM - 4:00 PM. Closed Mondays except bank holidays. Extended hours during special exhibitions.

Tickets & Pricing

Free admission to permanent collections. Special exhibitions may charge fees (typically £3-8 for adults). Group bookings and educational visits can be arranged in advance.

Best Time to Visit

Weekday mornings offer quieter viewing experiences. Spring and summer provide pleasant weather for exploring the surrounding historic area after your museum visit.

Suggested Duration

Allow 2-3 hours to fully explore the permanent collections and current exhibitions. Art enthusiasts may want to spend longer with the contemporary galleries.

Getting There

The Collection Museum is located in Lincoln's cultural quarter on Danes Terrace, within easy walking distance of Lincoln Cathedral and the historic Bailgate area. The museum is about a 10-minute walk uphill from Lincoln Central railway station. For those driving, there are several pay-and-display car parks nearby, including the Danes Terrace car park adjacent to the museum. Local bus services connect the museum to various parts of Lincoln, with stops along the High Street. The uphill location means comfortable walking shoes are recommended, though the views of the city from this elevated position are rewarding.

Things to Do Nearby

Lincoln Cathedral
One of Europe's finest Gothic cathedrals, just a 5-minute walk away, famous for its impressive architecture and once being the world's tallest building.
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A Norman castle housing one of only four surviving copies of the Magna Carta, offering panoramic views from its medieval walls.
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A charming cobbled street lined with independent shops, cafes, and galleries, connecting the historic upper city with the modern lower town.
Bailgate
The historic area surrounding the cathedral, featuring Roman ruins, traditional pubs, and boutique shops in medieval buildings.
Museum of Lincolnshire Life
A social history museum showcasing rural and urban life in Lincolnshire from 1750 to the present day, located in the lower city area.

Tips & Advice

Check the museum's website before visiting as special exhibitions and events are frequently updated
Wear comfortable shoes as the museum is located uphill and involves walking on cobbled streets in the surrounding historic area
Take advantage of the free admission to explore at your own pace - you can always return to see more
Combine your visit with Lincoln Cathedral and Castle for a full day of historic exploration, as they're all within walking distance

Tours & Activities at The Collection Museum