Lincoln in September
September weather, activities, events & insider tips
September Weather in Lincoln
Is September Right for You?
Advantages
- Peak autumn colors transform Lincoln's cathedral quarter and Steep Hill into a photographer's great destination - maple and oak trees reach full color by mid-September
- September harvest festivals across Lincolnshire countryside offer authentic farm experiences with significantly fewer crowds than summer months
- Perfect walking weather with crisp 10°C (50°F) mornings warming to comfortable 21°C (70°F) afternoons - ideal for exploring Lincoln's historic steep streets without summer heat exhaustion
- University of Lincoln students return, bringing busy nightlife and cultural events back to the Brayford Waterfront area after quiet August
Considerations
- Daylight hours decrease rapidly from 14 to 12 hours during September, limiting afternoon sightseeing time especially for Lincoln Cathedral's evening tours
- Weekend accommodation prices increase 25-30% as British families take final holidays before school term starts in earnest
- September's 65mm (2.6 inches) of rain over 10 days can make Lincoln's cobblestone streets slippery and outdoor markets less pleasant
Best Activities in September
Lincoln Cathedral and Castle Historic Walking Tours
September's mild 21°C (70°F) afternoons make climbing Lincoln Cathedral's 266 steps to the tower comfortable without summer heat. Autumn light streaming through stained glass creates spectacular photography opportunities. The cathedral grounds showcase beautiful autumn foliage, and fewer summer tourists mean better access to guided tours.
Lincolnshire Wolds Cycling and Walking Routes
September offers perfect conditions for exploring the Lincolnshire Wolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Cool mornings at 10°C (50°F) warm to ideal 21°C (70°F) cycling temperatures. Harvest season means golden fields, apple orchards, and farm shops at peak activity. Clear September days provide 25km (15.5 mile) views across the countryside.
Lincoln Christmas Market Venue and Brayford Waterfront Tours
While the famous Christmas Market doesn't start until December, September is perfect for exploring the historic market square and Brayford Waterfront without crowds. The university area comes alive as students return, creating busy evening atmosphere. Boat tours along the Foss Dyke canal offer peaceful countryside views in ideal weather.
Battle of Britain Memorial Flight Visitor Centre Tours
September weather provides excellent visibility for viewing historic aircraft at RAF Coningsby, 30km (18.6 miles) from Lincoln. Cool, clear days mean better photo opportunities of Spitfires and Hurricanes. Indoor hangar tours offer perfect backup for September's occasional rain showers.
Traditional Pub and Local Brewery Food Tours
September marks harvest season for Lincolnshire's famous sausages, haslet, and fresh produce. Cozy pub interiors become appealing as evenings cool to 10°C (50°F). Local breweries offer seasonal ales and warm atmosphere perfect for September evenings. Walking between venues is comfortable in mild daytime temperatures.
Doddington Hall Gardens and Lincolnshire Estate Tours
September showcases spectacular autumn colors in historic estate gardens 8km (5 miles) from Lincoln. Harvest festivals and farmers markets operate throughout September weekends. Indoor historic house tours provide perfect shelter during September's brief rain showers. Apple orchards reach peak picking season.
September Events & Festivals
Lincoln Book Festival
Annual literary festival featuring local and national authors, typically held in historic venues around Lincoln Cathedral quarter. Perfect for September's cooler weather with indoor venues and outdoor readings in mild temperatures.
Lincolnshire Show Harvest Festivals
Multiple smaller harvest festivals across Lincolnshire villages throughout September, celebrating local produce, traditional crafts, and farming heritage. Features authentic local food and family activities.