Lincoln hosts first ice trail after Christmas market axed

Twenty ice sculptures will be spread out at locations around Lincoln city centre

Lincoln is set to host its first ice trail in December following the axing of the city's Christmas market.

The annual market, which began in 1982, was axed earlier this year due to concerns about overcrowding.

City of Lincoln Council said it wanted to replace the event with a series of smaller offerings throughout the year.

The ice trail, which will take place on 9 and 10 December, will feature an array of frozen sculptures at different locations around the city.

According to the council, the trail will allow visitors "to soak up all the festivities the city has to offer as they wander Lincoln's streets to discover 20 ice masterpieces".

Lincoln Cathedral will be recreated in ice

Festive-themed sculptures include Santa and a reindeer, while live demonstrations will see the city's world-renowned cathedral recreated in ice.

Roasted chestnuts, music from a steam organ and "a Christmas-themed steam engine" will also be located in Castle Square, the authority said.

Councillor Naomi Tweddle, portfolio holder for inclusive economic growth, said: "Christmas is a special part of the year for everyone and Lincoln is the perfect backdrop for celebrations."

The 2023 programme of events has so far included a free two-day music event and giant inflatable monsters on the roofs of city centre buildings.

Lincoln's Christmas market was cancelled due to costs and overcrowding concerns

Lincoln Christmas Market attracted record crowds in 2022, with 320,000 people visiting over four days - above its ideal 250,000 limit.

Announcing plans to call time on the market, the council said having "so many people in a small area can be uncomfortable" and cutting the event would allow the £260,000 budget to be spread throughout the year.