Does it matter whether I live uphill or downhill in Lincoln?

Not really, as both work well. Homes uphill are close to the cathedral and castle, while those downhill are nearer the university, the station and the main shopping streets.

Is HostFamily.uk free for Lincoln families?

Yes. There is nothing to pay to register, and no subscription or placement fees.

Can I host if I live in North Hykeham or Nettleham?

Yes. Both are close to the city with regular buses, so schools and universities searching by location can find homes there too.

What is there for students to do in Lincoln?

Exploring the cathedral and castle, climbing Steep Hill and eating out around Brayford Pool are favourites, and the Lincolnshire coast makes a good day trip.

Become a Host Family in Lincoln

Why Lincoln needs host families

Lincoln Cathedral and Lincoln Castle crown the hill above the city, and the castle displays one of the surviving copies of Magna Carta. Below them, Steep Hill leads down past old houses and independent shops to Brayford Pool, the waterfront home of the University of Lincoln.

The university attracts students from overseas, and some prefer to spend part of their time with a local family while they sharpen their English. Lincoln is quieter than the larger cities nearby, and direct trains to Nottingham, Sheffield and Newark make travel across the region easy.

Hosting in Lincoln is a chance to share a city you know well with someone seeing it for the first time. You choose when your room is available and which students to accept, and you help someone build both their English and their confidence.

Host family sharing a meal with an international student in Lincoln

Who you could host in Lincoln

You choose the ages, lengths of stay and dates that suit your household.

Students starting at the university

Some international students look for a family homestay while they adjust to life in the UK, particularly before or during their first term.

Adults wanting a calmer stay

Adult learners who would rather avoid a big city sometimes choose Lincoln for a few weeks of English practice in a peaceful family setting.

Summer visitors

Short summer stays bring students who combine English with exploring the cathedral, the castle and the Lincolnshire countryside and coast.

Where you could host

Schools look for homes within easy reach of their classes. These are some of the areas in and around Lincoln.

Bailgate

Uphill Lincoln

Ermine

Birchwood

Boultham

Bracebridge

North Hykeham

Nettleham

Washingborough

Waddington

How it works

1. Register for free

Create your host profile in a few minutes. There are no fees or subscriptions.

2. Get found by schools

Language schools that place students in and around Lincoln search for hosts by location, rooms and availability.

3. Welcome your student

A school contacts you directly to arrange a placement. You decide which students you accept.

Earn up to £7,500 a year tax-free

Under the government's Rent a Room scheme, income from hosting students in your Lincoln home is tax-free up to £7,500 a year.

Applies whether you own or rent (with your landlord's permission)
Claim it with a single tick box on your tax return

General guidance only. Read more on GOV.UK

Hosting in Lincoln: common questions

Ready to host in Lincoln?

Registration is free and takes just a few minutes. Language schools can find you as soon as your profile is live.

Host families are also needed near Lincoln