Thanks Janisj nothing like reading the question :-)

Ann,

I'm afraid I can't help you with accomodations in/around Lincoln. This was a day trip from our base of operations, Ely. We made the trip to Lincoln largely because one of our choristers spent 10 years of her childhood and youth in Lincoln.

I can't emphasize enough that Lincoln Cathedral is well worth a visit. I gasped when I entered the nave-yes, it's THAT beautiful.

As I remember, there are plenty of restaurants and gift shops in the vicinity of the cathedral. Lincoln Castle is within walking distance of Lincoln Cathedral.

If you have to choose between the two, visit the Cathedral. You'll be glad you did.

'Too bad you will miss the (June)Aldeburgh music festival'

True, but you do hit the first half of the Snape Proms, also at Aldeburgh (and yes, shamelessly borrowing the name from London). It's programmed with a broader appeal, including jazz, world music, etc. www.aldeburgh.co.uk will have details some time in the new year, I'm guessing around easter.

Regarding what to wear for the Albert Hall...the place doesn't have the best ventilation, and so when filled with thousands of people every night for two months, it can get rather warm. Bear this in mind!

hi, M2,

based on your recommendation, I have been trying to perduade my philistine daughter to take a trip to Lincoln to see teh cathedral, as I'm not sure when we'll get there.

well she got to Lincoln, but only to her flat-mate's house, where her mum cooked them sunday lunch!

perhaps next time? we'll have to drag her there when we go.

regards, ann