Greyfriars, Lincoln

Greyfriars is a stone building featuring a vaulted undercroft, large windows, and construction elements dating to the 13th century. The structure retains many original architectural features from this early period of construction.

Franciscan friars established this place in 1237 and maintained a religious community for centuries until its closure. The dissolution in 1538 ended the religious use, following the wider suppression of monasteries across England.

The building served as a school for centuries and became a center of learning for Lincoln residents. Its transformation from a place of prayer to a place of study shows how religious spaces adapted to serve new roles in the community.

The building sits near Freeschool Lane and is currently undergoing renovation work expected to be completed by 2025. Check local conditions before visiting as access and viewing may be limited during construction.

This building ranks among the earliest surviving Franciscan structures in Western Europe with rare architectural details. The original features offer uncommon examples of early medieval religious construction and design.

Location: Lincoln

GPS coordinates: 53.22930,-0.53700

Latest update: December 14, 2025 11:01