The Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) has announced that three prominent heritage attractions across the UK have received a significant funding boost after being awarded a first-round pass.

Lincoln Castle, the National Railway Museum (NRM) in York, and the Whitworth Art Gallery in Manchester, have all received development funding that could lead towards a potential application for a share of nearly £19m. The NRM has received £200,000 to fund detailed proposals for an application worth £6.8m to help fund a complete refurbishment of its Great Hall, the main exhibition space which houses the Flying Scotsman and the Mallard.

A development grant of £227,640 has been awarded to Lincoln Castle, which houses one of only four surviving copies of the Magna Carta, and aims to receive £6m to improve visitor facilities and regenerate the attraction's surrounding areas. Whitworth Art Gallery will also receive £152,000 to fund proposals that could lead to an eventual grant of £6m, which will go towards the extension of the learning and gallery areas and a new entrance.

Dame Jenny Abramsky, HLF chair, said: "These three major projects were chosen as they are truly transformational. As heritage 'classics', they are important to the identity of the UK and very much reflect the rich histories of ordinary people. "Having offered our initial support, applicants can now develop their plans to revitalise these wonderful places for the next generation to enjoy."

Each of the three projects now has up to two years to submit their proposals in order to be in contention for a firm funding award. Image: Britain on View