IT was the Victorian spectacular that showcased the shapes of things to come. More than six million people visited The Great Exhibition of the Works of Industry of All Nations in London’s Hyde Park back in 1851.

But what if it had never ended? That, for some, is the starting point for the steampunk community, who celebrate a stylish blend of science fiction and Victoriana later this month at Asylum XIII, the world’s biggest festival of its kind.

Now in its 13th year, the Lincoln Steampunk Festival runs over the August Bank Holiday weekend at various venues with a street parade and events alongside a fringe-style programme of art, literature, music, fashion and comedy.

Thousands of fans are expected to flock to the city, with previous events attracting an audience from all round the world.

Expect top hats, flying goggles, corsets and flamboyant feathers aplenty as writers, musicians, dancers, sculptors, model makers, costume makers and a host of other artists gather for events in the Bailgate area, Lincoln Castle, clubs and pubs.

Promoters promise more than 100 events and attractions under the banner Weekend at the Asylum – one of the town’s first venues was originally a mental hospital – including burlesque, cabaret, fashion shows, workshops, performance art, markets and competitions. 

One of the highlights is expected to be The Grand Promenade, a parade of spectacular costumes, outfits and builds on Bank Holiday Monday, August 28, starting at 11am in Westgate.

The street festival offers free admission, although some of the event’s performance venues do charge an entry fee.

The festival runs from August 25 to 28, and a full timetable is posted on  The Ministry of Steampunk website. For general tourism and travel tips on the area, see the Visit Lincolnshire website.