The Paddle Steamer Lincoln Castle is currently moored in the Alexandra Dock in Grimsby
and since 1989 has been successfully used as a floating bar and restaurant. Originally built in 1940 at Glasgow, she is 208
feet in length and is 598 gross tonnes and was used along with two others as a ferry on the New Holland to Hull crossing
of the River Humber. When withdrawn she held the distinction of being the last operational coal fired paddle steamer in the
UK.
The Lincoln Castle operated the New Holland to Hull route with the PS Tattershall
Castle (built 1934, withdrawn 1972 and now a floating bar on the River Thames) and with the PS Wingfield Castle (built 1934,
withdrawn 1974 and now a floating museum exhibit in Hartlepool). It was the building of the Humber Bridge that spelt
the end of the operational life of these fine vessels.
After spending 16 years moored near to the Fishing Heritage Centre the Lincoln Castle
has been temporally moved and beached on an underwater platform in the Alexandra Dock next to the Corporation Road Lift Bridge.
Here essential works to the hull will be carried out and, following painting, she will be returned to her permanent
mooring.
Click on pictures for a larger image.
30 Mar 2006 - On the move
