Bamboo Retreat

Fantasy Island is a resort theme park at Ingoldmells on the Lincolnshire coast, close to Skegness and a short walk from the beach. Rides are split into three wristband levels, Discovery and Adventurer for thrill seekers and Little Explorer for younger children, with height restrictions applying. Outdoor rides sit alongside an indoor entertainment complex in a steel pyramid.

Tip: Check the park is open before you go, as it closes between seasons. Wristbands can be pre-booked online or bought on arrival, and the right one depends on your height.

Lincoln Cathedral is a Church of England cathedral and a working place of worship, consecrated in the 11th century. The building is grade I listed and has Gothic architecture from several periods, including two large rose windows, the Dean's Eye and the Bishop's Eye. The Victorian writer John Ruskin rated it highly among British buildings.

Tip: The cathedral is a living church, so some areas can close for services or events. Check the visit page for current restrictions before you travel.

Bolingbroke Castle is a ruined castle in Old Bolingbroke, Lincolnshire. It was founded in 1220 by Ranulf, Earl of Chester, shortly after he returned from the Fifth Crusade. It is one of the earliest castles designed and built without a keep, relying instead on thick walls, five D-shaped towers and a twin-towered gatehouse.

Tip: Look for the lower walls and the ground floors of the towers, which are the main surviving parts to see.

Tattershall Castle is a National Trust property built in the 15th century by Ralph Cromwell, Treasurer of England. The Great Tower is an imposing red-brick keep with seven storeys, including the Parlour, Great Hall, Audience Chamber and Private Chamber. Some of the huge medieval fireplaces were once ripped out for sale abroad before being tracked down and returned.

Tip: The tower has 149 steps and no lift, and the grounds have deep gravel, so wear sensible shoes. Dogs on leads can go in most places but not inside the Great Tower, except assistance dogs.

Lincoln Castle was built by William the Conqueror in the late 11th century on the site of a Roman fortress. It is unusual for having two mottes, and it stayed in use as a prison and court for centuries. It sits in the heart of Lincoln's historic Cathedral Quarter.

Tip: Call the Customer Service Centre on 01522 782019 before you go to check which parts are open and which Magna Carta documents are on display.

Doddington Hall is an Elizabethan mansion built between 1595 and 1600 by Robert Smythson, with walled courtyards and a gabled gatehouse. It has been a family home for over 400 years, and its contents reflect that. The Holly Room is covered in early 17th-century Flemish tapestries. Around the hall are gardens of walled and wild areas, with an outdoor sculpture exhibition at times.

Tip: Check the opening times before you go, as the hall and gardens open on different dates and the gardens' last entry is earlier than closing.

Gainsborough Old Hall is a five-hundred-year-old manor house, built by Sir Thomas Burgh in 1460 and now run by English Heritage. It is one of the best-preserved medieval manor houses in England, and a timber-framed building with a striking black-and-white look.

Tip: Head for the medieval kitchen and great hall first, then finish with the tower climb (59 steps) for the view.