Catchwater

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.

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 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.

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.

Belton House is a Grade I listed country house near Grantham, built between 1685 and 1687 for the Brownlow family. It sits within formal gardens, including Italian and Dutch gardens, and a wooded park crossed by avenues leading to follies. The park has been home to a herd of fallow deer for over 300 years.

Tip: There's no need to book for normal visits, and parking is included in the entry fee. Park in the grounds, not in Belton village. Dogs on leads are welcome in the gardens, parkland and café, but not in the house or playgrounds.

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.

Peckover House is a Georgian merchant's townhouse in Wisbech, built in 1722 and home to the Quaker Peckover banking family for 150 years. Inside are panelled rooms, Georgian fireplaces and ornate plasterwork, plus a library, a cabinet of curiosities and an exhibition on the family's banking business in the surviving part of the old Banking Hall.

Tip: The house and garden keep different opening days, so check the National Trust page before you set off. Parking is in town, with Chapel Road the nearest car park.