Day trips from Lincoln

17 miles from Lincoln

Situated just half an hour’s drive from Lincoln, Sleaford is a small but bustling market town. Bypassed by the A15 and A17, Sleaford is easily accessible by car. You can also take a direct train from Lincoln, which takes around 30 minutes – and offers some great countryside views along the way.

Dating back to the Iron Age, Sleaford has a rich heritage. As it is surrounded by flat, fertile fenland, the economy of the area was primarily based upon agriculture. When the town was granted the right to hold a market in the 12th century, it developed into a thriving destination, trading wool, cattle and seed.

The canalization of the River Slea in 1794 brought more economic growth to the area, as did the arrival of the railway in the mid-1850s.

Things to do in Sleaford

• Sleaford Castle

Dating back to the 12th century, Sleaford Castle was originally built by the Bishop of Lincoln. Although it was called a castle, it is thought the building was more of a manor house than a military stronghold.

Although it never came under attack, Sleaford Castle did play host to two monarchs in its lifetime - King John visited in 1216, followed by Henry VIII in 1541.

Around the time Henry VIII visited, the castle was already in poor condition. It was later seized by the Crown and fell into a state of disrepair. Lead, stone and wood was stripped from the structure and the castle was abandoned.

Today, there is just a small section of masonry left. Information boards on site outline where the original structure was, and the outline of the moat is still clear. The surrounding grounds have become a peaceful park, just a short walk from the town centre.

• Sleaford Heritage Trail

Sleaford is home to a number of historic buildings, all of which can be found on the Sleaford Heritage Trail. This self-guided experience will take you through the town, introducing some interesting characters along the way.

Every place of interest on the trail has a plaque outside, with a QR code to scan. Scan the code on your smart phone and the history of the building will be revealed…

The trail can be joined at any point, and takes around an hour and a half to complete – the more place you visit, the more you will learn!

• St Denys Church

St Denys Church is located in Sleaford’s historic Market Place. There has been a church on this site since the late Saxon period, when it formed part of a manor owned by the first Bishop of Lincoln.

The church has been rebuilt and restored multiple times over the years, but the oldest part you can see today dates back to the 12th century.

With its intricate stonework, detailed carvings and stunning stained glass windows, St Denys is certainly one of Sleaford’s architectural highlights. There are some fantastic features to look out for inside, including a 14th century font and a medieval rood screen.

• The Hub

A national centre for craft and design, the Hub in Sleaford showcases artists and makers from around the world.

Free to visit, the Hub boasts an ever-changing programme of exhibitions each year, featuring both established artists and emerging talent. In addition to the gallery spaces, there is also a workshop and a dance studio, both of which host a variety of community events and classes.

There is a contemporary café on-site, perfect for a light lunch or a cup of coffee. The menu here features a variety of locally produced, seasonal food, with everything made fresh in-house. Enjoy the buzzing atmosphere inside, or grab a seat outside for a lovely view of the river.

Allow some time to peruse the Hub’s shop before you leave – it’s renowned for its curated collection of artwork, homeware and crafts. Featuring pieces from some of the finest artists in Britain, this is a great spot to pick up a unique gift – or treat yourself to something special!

• Cogglesford Mill & Navigation House

Cogglesford Mill is a grade-II listed watermill, situated on the banks of the River Slea. Although the present mill was built in the early 18th century, millers have been producing flour here for over 1000 years.

Fully restored in 2021, Cogglesford is now thought to be the only Sheriff’s watermill still in operation in England. The mill uses the same processes as 200 years ago to produce stoneground flour – which is available to buy at the shop on-site. Free to visit, Cogglesford is open to the public from Friday - Monday. There are also milling days every month, where you can watch the mill in action.

After visiting Cogglesford Mill, you can take a stroll down the river to Navigation House. In 1794, the River Slea in Sleaford was made into a canal, and renamed as the Sleaford Navigation. The construction of this waterway linked the town to the River Witham, providing an economical transport route for bulk goods.

Situated in the old public wharf area of Sleaford, Navigation House is the original canal company office. Built in 1838, this Grade-II listed building is thought to be the only of its kind still in existence.

Today, Navigation House has been transformed into a hub of information. Step inside and you can learn more about the history of the building, the development of the waterways and the sudden rise of Sleaford’s importance.

22 miles from Lincoln

Around 40 minutes’ drive from Lincoln, Horncastle is situated halfway between the city and the coast. Known as the ‘Gateway to the Wolds’, this historic town is surrounded by beautiful countryside, so the drive here features some pretty amazing views.

An area first established in Roman times, Horncastle is steeped in history. Although it is a reasonably small town, there are 116 listed structures here – and 17 blue plaques! The quaint cobbled streets are lined with attractive architecture, with many buildings dating back to the Georgian and Victorian periods.

Horncastle has had many notable residents over the years, including the scientist and botanist Sir Joseph Banks, and the prolific executioner William Marwood – the inventor of the “long drop” hanging technique.

Things to do in Horncastle

• Horncastle Heritage Trail

The Horncastle Heritage Trail is a great way to explore the town’s history, architecture, and attractions. This self-guided walk will take you on a three-mile journey around Horncastle, covering all of the town’s major landmarks.

You can download a map, or simply follow it on your mobile phone. There are 16 places of interest to find, and the trail leaflet features plenty of information about each one. You can also find out more about Horncastle’s famous residents, and some of the historic events that helped shape the town.

• Joseph Banks Centre

Situated within a Grade-II listed building, The Joseph Banks Centre is a natural science museum and local heritage hub. Home to a small museum, an exhibition gallery and a herbarium, the centre showcases a number of natural science collections. Visitors can also access historic archives and educational resources.

A botanist, explorer and scientist, Sir Joseph Banks encouraged and supported scientific activity all over the world. Banks embarked on a number of voyages across the globe, collecting many species of plants and animals previously unknown to Western science. His work played a pivotal part in scientific research, and our understanding of Britain’s colonial past.

Outside the Joseph Banks Centre, there is a garden which was created as a tribute to the famous explorer. Offering a tranquil oasis in the centre of Horncastle, this pretty green space is a tribute to Sir Joseph’s interest in botany and includes many plants with a connection to him. The plants represent specimens that were catalogued on his travels, or collected by gardeners who were sponsored by him.

• Antique Hunting

Horncastle boasts a great variety of independent businesses, but is perhaps best known for its wonderful array of antique shops. Attracting collectors from across the country, there are around 12 different antique shops here, each piled high with hidden treasures.

As most of the shops here are situated within historic buildings, antiquing in Horncastle can be a completely immersive experience. Many of the shops are much larger than they look, so be prepared to get lost in their rambling rooms. Allow yourself plenty of time to peruse the vast collections of vintage gems on offer - you never know what you will discover!

• Walled Garden Baumber

Just a short drive from Horncastle, Walled Garden Baumber is nestled in the heart of the Lincolnshire Wolds. Tucked behind rolling fields and dense woodland, this beautiful walled garden is a real hidden gem.

Dating back to the 19th century, Baumber started out as walled kitchen garden for the former Stourton Hall. Covering just under four acres, Baumber is a rare example of a double walled garden. A feature more commonly found in Scotland, a double walled garden has stone outer walls and brick interior walls. This creates a series of different microclimates, extending the growing seasons.

After being left to fall into disrepair, Walled Garden Baumber reopened to the public in 2016. These once derelict gardens have been transformed with a wide range of planting schemes, clever design features and unique artwork. The lake – with its innovative beach garden - is the perfect place to take a seat and soak up the tranquil atmosphere.

• St Mary’s Church

A wonderful example of historic architecture, St Mary’s Church in Horncastle dates back to the 13th century. The history of this religious site actually goes back further, as it is thought that a Roman church once stood in the same place. This original building was then rebuilt in the Saxon period, when the church became a minster.

Although construction of the current church started in 1250, St Mary’s features a mixture of different architectural styles. Outside, there are elements of Victorian and Perpendicular design; early English styles can be seen inside, and there is even evidence of Georgian influences.

The building is Grade-II listed and there are many interesting features to look out for, including leaning pillars in the nave, gilded angels in the roof and medieval scythes once used in the Lincolnshire Rising. St Mary’s is also renowned for its beautiful stained glass windows, which are particularly spectacular on a sunny day.

• The Discover Horncastle Guided Tour

Led by volunteers from the Horncastle History & Heritage Centre, the Discover Horncastle Guided Tour explores highlights from the town’s rich history. As Horncastle was recently voted as was one of the top five market towns in the UK, this tour is a great way to find out what makes it so special.

Suitable for all ages and abilities, this short tour covers around ¾ of a mile. You will get the chance to spot Roman remains, and find out how the introduction of a new canal – and a horse fair - transformed the town’s future forever.

Full of fun facts, this free tour will also teach you more about the famous people who once called Horncastle home, from explorers to executioners.

34 miles from Lincoln

Just under an hour from Lincoln, Grantham is a busy market town, with a history rooted in industry. Although Grantham has some great public transport links, there is lots to see in the surrounding area, so if you’re planning a day trip from Lincoln it may be best to travel by car.

Situated on the banks of the River Witham, the town is on the border of both Lincolnshire and Nottinghamshire. With great transport links to major cities, it’s no surprise that Grantham’s economy was historically based upon engineering and manufacturing.

In medieval times, wool was the most important industry here. Situated on the main road that ran from the north to the south of the country and surrounded by grazing fields, Grantham made the perfect market town.

In the 18th century, Grantham went on to become an important stage-coaching town because of its road links - a lot of travellers would stop here on their way up and down the country, and spend their money at local businesses. When the railway was introduced in 1850, industries here thrived once more and Grantham became an engineering town.

Like any industrial area, the town has suffered many peaks and troughs. Although no longer an engineering destination, Grantham is still a transport hub for the county. It has some of the best rail and road links in the region, and the town has grown rapidly in recent times.

Over the years, Grantham has been home to some notable residents, including Isaac Newton, who was educated at the town’s grammar school; Edith Smith, the UK’s first female police officer; and Margaret Thatcher, the first female Prime Minister.

Things to do in Grantham

• Grantham Museum

Designed to educate, inform and inspire visitors, the Grantham Museum is filled with stories about the town and the surrounding area. Run by volunteers, the museum offers a great insight into the history of Grantham, including facts about the Dambusters, Sir Isaac Newton and Edith Smith.

Although the current museum was opened in 2012, the idea of a museum in Grantham can be traced back to the 1800s. Nottingham-born geologist, archaeologist and historian Henry Preston founded the Grantham Scientific Society in 1890. Preston was passionate about education and teaching and was keen to share his knowledge with the world.

With the help of his friends, Preston started to collect exhibits and artefacts to put on display and the first Grantham Museum was opened in 1926. Preston was honoured with a blue plaque at the current museum in 2017, and his personal collection of artefacts remain a core part of the exhibits on display today.

• Grantham Guildhall Arts Centre

Built in 1869, the Guildhall is one of the most beautiful buildings in Grantham. Instantly recognisable from its symmetrical design and majestic clock tower, the Guildhall has dominated Grantham’s town centre for over 100 years.

Designed by Lincoln architect William Watkins, this impressive structure is made up of three different buildings, which originally housed a ballroom and courtroom, a governor’s residence and a small jail. When the jail closed in 1882, part of the Guildhall was leased to a local cigar company – an employee of which is said to still haunt the building!

After being used by the council for a number of years, the Guildhall was converted to an arts centre in 1991. Now a creative hub for the community to enjoy, the Guildhall hosts workshops, plays, art exhibitions and live music. You can catch a variety of professional touring shows here, as well as local productions throughout the year. If you just want to pop in for a look around, there is a great little coffee shop inside, serving up breakfast, lunch and light snacks. Just remember to look out for the cigar smoking ghost… ​

• Woolsthorpe Manor

Woolsthorpe Manor is where the world changed forever. This unassuming Lincolnshire farmhouse is where Sir Isaac Newton had his famous revelation about gravity.

Built in the 17th century, Woolsthorpe Manor was the birthplace of Isaac Newton. After growing up here, the 18-year-old Newton left rural Lincolnshire behind to study at Trinity College in Cambridge. When the Great Plague of 1666 struck England, Newton retreated to the relative safety of the Lincolnshire countryside. Free from the restrictions of University life, he was able to develop his theories on calculus, optics and the laws of motion and gravity.

Visit the manor today and you can stand in the very room that Newton used a prism to split sunshine and explore the nature of light. From the window of the same room, you can see the apple tree in the orchard which inspired his theory of gravity.

Now owned by the National Trust, Woolsthorpe Manor is also home to a brilliant Science Centre, so you can learn more about Newton’s famous theories – and put them to the test!

• St Wulfram’s Church

“Here is the finest steeple in England” Featured in England’s Thousand Best Churches by Simon Jenkins, St Wulfram’s Church is known as the ‘Glory of Grantham’. Home to the sixth tallest spire in Britain, this Grade-I listed building is an important piece of architecture in Lincolnshire.

A church dedicated to St. Wulfram has been on this site for about 1000 years, although the original building no longer exists. Records show that a larger church was built here in the 1100s, parts of which are still visible today.

The church has been extended multiple times over the years, with the famous tower and spire added in 1280. It is alleged that when Victorian writer John Ruskin first saw the spire, he was so spellbound by its beauty that he swooned.

Inside, St Wulfram’s has a wonderful array of significant features, including some beautiful textiles, an incredible organ and a 15th century font. Most famously, the church is also home to the Trigge Library. Built in 1598, this historic library was founded by local clergyman Francis Trigge. In a bid to increase the learnings and knowledge of the local residents, he gave £100 for the purchase of books to set up the library, which was one of the first public reference libraries in England. To prevent theft, the books were chained to the shelves – where they remain today.

• Belton House

Just on the outskirts of Grantham, Belton House is a beautiful Grade-I listed manor house. Built between 1685 – 1688 for Sir John Brownlow, Belton is one of the greatest examples of Restoration architecture.

Satisfyingly symmetrical, Belton is a breathtaking building, surrounded by the most beautiful gardens and parkland. By commissioning only the finest designers and craftsmen of the age, both the house and gardens showcase cutting edge design and innovation.

The Belton Estate covers 1,300 acres, so you will find plenty to see and do here. There are several different gardens to explore, each boasting a variety of seasonal blooms and picturesque views.

Venture further into the estate and you can follow a number of walking trails, which will take you through wildlife-rich grassland, past the River Witham and into ancient woodland. Belton’s resident deer can be easily seen on walks across the parkland, so keep your eyes peeled!

19 miles from Lincoln

Nestled in the middle of rural Lincolnshire, Woodhall Spa is regarded as one of the county’s prettiest villages. Around half an hour’s drive from Lincoln, the best way to travel to Woodhall is by car.

The history of Woodhall Spa dates back to Victorian times. When digging for coal, a rising spring was discovered. As the water in the spring contained iodine and bromine, it was declared to be valuable and spa baths were built. Visitors travelled from across the country to take a dip in the springs. “Taking the water” was believed to have many health benefits.

After the introduction of the railway in the 1800s, Woodhall really started to thrive as a holiday destination. Visitors came from far and wide, and there was an abundance of guest houses and hotels here – which is still the case today.

Things to do in Woodhall Spa

• Jubilee Park

When the sun is shining, Jubilee Park in Woodhall Spa is a must-visit! Situated just a few minutes’ walk from the village centre, you will find ten glorious acres of ornamental gardens, complete with a bowling green, croquet lawns and tennis courts.

Jubilee Park also harbours one of Woodhall’s best-loved hidden gems – a wonderful outdoor swimming pool. Heated to a balmy 29c, it is impossible to resist a dip here, even on a cold day!

You don’t have to be a member to swim, although advance booking is recommended, especially during the warmer months. The pool hosts several different sessions throughout the week, from adult-only swims to aquacise classes. There are also special events on throughout the summer, where you can enjoy a movie and a swim, or even a midnight swim under the stars.

• Kinema in the Woods

Nestled within the trees, Kinema in the Woods is a beautiful little cinema in the centre of Woodhall Spa. One of the most popular attractions in Lincolnshire, watching a film at the Kinema is an experience like no other.

Originally a sports and entertainment pavilion in the grounds of a hotel, the Kinema was first opened as a cinema in 1922. The first film to be screened here was meant to be “The Lion Eaters”. When the film failed to arrive, a Charlie Chaplin film was shown instead.

Wonderfully authentic inside, the Kinema has had very few aesthetic updates over the years. Of course, sound projectors, screens and seating have all been upgraded (the first six rows used to be deckchairs) but the cinema still retains many of its original features.

Reflecting the golden age of cinema, the Kinema has a real nostalgic feel to it. The foyer is full of classic film memorabilia and there are vintage treasures hidden throughout. We won’t ruin the surprise, but if you’re watching a film in Screen One, you are in for a treat!

• Petwood Hotel

More recently, Woodhall Spa is perhaps better known for its aviation links than its mineral springs. During the Second World War, two of Woodhall Spa’s biggest hotels were requisitioned by the RAF. The Golf Hotel and The Petwood Hotel housed several squadrons, whilst the surrounding woods were used to hide military equipment.

Most famously, the Petwood Hotel was home to the 617 ‘Dambusters’ Squadron. It is hard to imagine what conversations must have taken place here at that time, but to be surrounded by that history is certainly an experience. Take a seat in the Squadron Bar and you will find a whole host of fascinating memorabilia and emotional tributes.

Outside, there are stunning landscaped gardens surrounding the Petwood, perfect for a reflective walk. Depending when you visit, there is always something different in bloom, and something new to see.

The Petwood Hotel is also famed for its delicious afternoon tea, which is accompanied by wonderful views of the garden. Come in the summer and you can take your tea outside on the terrace; visit in winter and you can cosy up by the fire in the drawing room.

• Battle of Britain Memorial Flight Visitor Centre

If you’re keen to learn more about Lincolnshire’s aviation heritage, Woodhall Spa is just 8 minutes from RAF Coningsby. Opened in 1941, this base served as an RAF Bomber Command Station until the 1960s. Although Coningsby is still a working military site, it is also now also home to the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight Visitor Centre.

The Battle of Britain Memorial Flight operates six Spitfires, two Hurricanes, a Lancaster, a C47 Dakota, and two Chipmunk aircraft. The mission of the BBMF is to keep these historic aircraft in airworthy condition, and commemorate those who have fallen whilst serving their country.

A must visit for all aviation enthusiasts, the BBMF Visitor Centre offers you the unique opportunity to see these iconic aircraft at close quarters. You will be shown around the hangar by volunteer guides, many of whom have first-hand experience of the aircraft. Whilst in the hangar, you will also get the chance to observe the RAF technicians maintaining the planes.

• Tattershall Castle

If you’re driving out to Woodhall Spa, it is well worth stopping off at Tattershall Castle en-route. Just four miles outside Woodhall, it’s impossible to miss this medieval castle as it towers over the flat Lincolnshire fens.

It’ll take you just ten minutes to reach Tattershall by car, or alternatively you can hire a bike in the village and cycle. The country lanes here are relatively quiet, and there is some stunning scenery along the way. Woodhall Spa Bike Hire have a great cycling trail that will take you full circle.

Built of brick, in an era of stone, Tattershall Castle is one of the earliest and finest surviving examples of medieval brickwork. The first property to be built on this site was in 1231, when Robert de Tateshale was given a license to build a manor house out of stone.

During the early fifteenth century, the castle was passed to Ralph, the 3rd Baron Cromwell. When he became Treasurer of England in 1433, Lord Cromwell upgraded the once humble residence into an extremely opulent home.

Despite its original grandeur, Tattershall has had to overcome conflict, decay and destruction over the years. With so much history hidden behind the battlements, this castle’s story is certainly one worth exploring.

44 miles from Lincoln

“It’s not so grim in Grimsby!” Situated in North East Lincolnshire, this historic town was once the world’s busiest fishing port. If you’re staying in Lincoln, it takes around an hour to drive here, or just under an hour if you hop on the train.

Grimsby was founded by the Danes in the 9th century, although archaeological evidence suggests there may have been a small town of Roman workers here in the second century.

Located on the River Haven, which flows into the Humber, Grimsby has long provided a location for ships to shelter from approaching storms. Ideally placed to exploit the rich fishing grounds in the North Sea, the town naturally developed into a small fishing and trading port. Sadly around the 15th century, The Haven began to silt up; ships were unable to dock here and the town fell into decline.

It wasn’t until the 19th century that things began to look up for Grimsby. The river was enlarged, improved and dredged, and the town began to flourish once more. With its new and improved waterways, the port boomed, importing iron, timber, wheat, hemp, and flax.

The arrival of the railway in 1848 improved transportation even further, connecting this once unknown town to London’s famous fish markets. With Grimsby fish now available nationwide, the town developed into the world’s premier fishing port.

Although the fishing industry is no longer what it was, Grimsby is still the country’s leading fishing port and an important centre for food processing. Away from the docks, the town has become a vibrant hub for both locals and visitors. With shopping, entertainment, and a growing food and drink scene, you will find plenty of things to see and do here.

The town also still boasts excellent transport routes, offering direct rail links to major UK cities, including London, Liverpool and of course, Lincoln!

Things to do in Grimsby

• Alfred Enderby Smokehouse

With over 100 years’ experience, Alfred Enderby is one of the oldest independent traditional fish smokers in the UK. Famed for their award-winning smoked salmon and haddock, this family-run business have been smoking fish in Grimsby since 1918.

The company still work in the same traditional brick built smokehouse on Grimsby docks, where the ornate iron cowls inside are roughly a century old. Over the years, layers of tar have built up inside, which helps to give their smoked fish its unique flavour.

In 2009, Enderby’s was awarded PGI (Protected Geographical Indication) status for their Grimsby Traditional Smoked Haddock. Enforced by law, PGI status is designed to protect and celebrate traditional regional foods - similar to Champagne, Melton Mowbray Pork Pies and Wensleydale Cheese.

If you’re keen to find out more, Alfred Enderby offer guided tours, so you can see for yourself what makes their fish so special.

Led by current owner Patrick Salmon (yes, that is his real name), each smokehouse tour offers an introduction to the smoking methods used, followed by a short tasting session. You will also get the chance to see the original brick built chimneys, and the 100 year build-up of tar inside! Tours take place on the second Saturday of every month, advance booking is required.

• Grimsby Fishing Heritage Centre

If you’re planning a day trip to Grimsby, the award-winning Grimsby Fishing Heritage Centre is a must-visit. This thoughtfully designed museum offers visitors the chance to walk in the footsteps of a 1950s fisherman.

As you explore the centre, carefully crafted sets will transport you back in time to the heyday of this famous port. You will have the chance to sign on as a crew member; leaving your 1950’s Grimsby home for a trip to the perilous Arctic fishing grounds, before returning home to the comfort of the Freeman’s Arms pub!

A job often described as the ‘most dangerous occupation in living memory’, the Grimsby fishermen literally risked their lives in order to bring home their catch. The Centre’s original preserved trawler interiors expertly capture the atmosphere of this remarkable way of life.

The sights, sounds and smells here will leave you with a whole new respect for the men who pitted their strength against the elements, battling unimaginable conditions to provide for their families. ​

• Grimsby Minster

Standing tall for more than 900 years, Grimsby Minster is immersed in history. Over the centuries, this Grade-I listed building has been redesigned, repaired, rebuilt and extended multiple times.

There are all sorts of things to look out for inside, including bomb damaged walls, a 15th century knight effigy and the Chapel of Resurrection. Built in 1920, this commemorative chapel holds a roll of honour for the men of Grimsby who died whilst serving in the Great War.

Since becoming a minster in 2010, this beautiful church has become a hub for the community, hosting a packed programme of performances, exhibitions and concerts throughout the year. Align your visit with an event, or simply pop in for a look around – everyone is welcome!

There is a fantastic café inside, so you can soak up the calming atmosphere and admire the stained glass windows. The perfect spot to meet friends or simply enjoy some time to yourself, this peaceful café offers a great selection of food and drinks – including a rather tempting afternoon tea.

• Cleethorpes

The lovely seaside town of Cleethorpes is just two miles from Grimsby town centre. Although it would take you around an hour to walk between the two, it is just nine minutes by train.

Originally just a fishing village, Cleethorpes started to develop into a holiday resort in the 1820s. It is now one of the most popular seaside destinations in Lincolnshire, boasting a whole host of amenities and attractions.

Full of charm and character, Cleethorpes has everything you’d expect from a traditional seaside town – a pretty promenade, a picturesque pier and fantastic fish and chips.

Unlike some seaside towns, you will also find plenty of things to do away from the beach. There are some great cafes and restaurants here, a small family-run zoo and a boating lake. You can also visit Cleethorpes Coast Light Railway - one of Britain’s oldest miniature railways. ​

• The Pig & Whistle | Healing Manor

Situated just outside Grimsby, The Pig and Whistle is an award-winning pub and restaurant. Part of Healing Manor Hotel, this popular eatery has garnered an excellent reputation for their delicious dishes.

Renowned for his unique approach, chef Steven and his talented team create and develop all of their menus to champion locally-sourced, seasonal ingredients. They use only the very best of Lincolnshire’s produce from the fields, forests and coastline, as well as homegrown veggies from their own garden.

Alongside a classic pub menu, the Pig & Whistle also offer bar snacks, a seasonal À La Carte menu, and an exquisite afternoon tea. If you want to try a bit of everything, we recommend their Tasting Menu. An experience rather than a meal, this eight-course feast showcases ingredients from Lincolnshire’s finest growers, producers and fish merchants.

If you want to take a post-dinner walk, Healing Manor Hotel is set within 36 acres of manicured grounds and gardens. Take a seat on the terrace and you can relax with a coffee or cocktail, surrounded by the most beautiful views.

55 miles from Lincoln

Packed with charm and character, Stamford is widely regarded as one of the finest stone towns in England - it is also one of the prettiest! Described in the Times as ‘architectural eye candy’, this attractive market town is a photographer’s dream.

The history of Stamford can be traced back to Roman times, but it was under Norman occupation that the town really prospered. With excellent transport routes and plenty of rural land, the economy here was based mainly on wool; the woven cloth produced here was known for its quality throughout Europe. When the wool industry faltered, it had a negative impact on the town and the population reduced considerably.

It wasn’t until after the Civil War that things began to pick up. Improvements made to the town’s transport routes meant that everyone travelling north now passed through Stamford. Businesses began to flourish and the town started to attract more prosperous professionals – many of which are responsible for building the beautiful Georgian houses Stamford is now famed for.

In 1967, the town became the first designated conservation area in England and Wales. This term is generally applied to an area of special architectural or historic interest, the character of which is considered worthy of preservation. There are now over 600 listed buildings here, including five Medieval churches.

With so much stunning scenery to explore, it should come as no surprise that Stamford has become a popular filming location for period dramas. Pride and Prejudice, The Crown and Middlemarch are just some of the productions that have utilised the town’s natural beauty as a historic backdrop.

If you’re planning a day trip from Lincoln, it will take you around an hour to travel to Stamford by car. If you take the train, the journey is around 2 hours, with a change at Peterborough.

Things to do in Stamford

• Shop & Dine

In 2023, the Telegraph named Stamford’s High Street as one of the best in the country. The town is home to some fantastic independent shops, as well as a wide range of well-known retailers. With so many indie businesses, Stamford makes for a great shopping destination, especially if you’re looking for something a bit different.

If you want to pick up some local produce, Stamford hosts a bustling street market on Fridays, with over 70 traders present each week. There is also a smaller market on Saturdays, and a monthly Farmers’ Market.

After some retail therapy, you’ll definitely be in need of some refreshments. Luckily, there is a great selection of cafes, bars and restaurants in Stamford. Whether you’re looking for a quick coffee, a relaxed lunch or a fancy four course meal, you’ll find plenty of options here. Characterful pubs and family-run cafes sit comfortably next to Instagrammable brunch spots and stylish wine bars, offering something for all tastes – and all ages.

• Browne’s Hospital

Browne’s Hospital is a medieval alms-house in the heart of Stamford. Common in the middle ages, an alms-house provided charity housing to people in need.

Browne’s Hospital was founded by local man William Browne, who was a rich wool merchant. Built in 1475, the hospital was built to accommodate ten poor men and two poor women. It was designed to be not just a place to live but a place to pray. There was a chapel inside and residents were required to attend two services a day, and a church service on Sundays.

In 1870, the hospital was updated and cottages were built for residents. For the first time, residents here had their own private accommodation and access to a courtyard garden. In the 60s, these Victorian cottages were then updated to flats, each with a living room, bedroom, kitchen and bathroom.

Still to this day, the cottages accommodate vulnerable people. There is enough room for 12 residents here, and the building is managed by a board of trustees and governors. The criteria for applying for a cottage is now quite broad, but all residents still must have a ‘need’ – whether that’s financial constraints or simply loneliness.

If you want to have a peek inside, some of the oldest parts of Browne’s Hospital are now open to visitors. Pre-book a guided tour and you can take a look at the Common Room where the men lived, the Chapel with its original stained-glass windows, the Audit Room and the Confrater’s Sitting Room, all of which still have their original furnishings. Even if you don’t get a chance to go in, the architectural features outside are still well worth a look.

• Guided Walking Tours

Once described as ‘England’s most attractive town’ by John Betjeman, Stamford is full of pretty architecture and interesting monuments. To make sure you see everything on offer, we recommend taking a guided walking tour.

Stamford Town Guided Tours offer a 90 minute walking tour around the town, with an entertaining and informative narration along the way. Full of historic facts paired with funny stories, this tour brings the story of Stamford to life with tales of Georgian elegance, dodgy politics and tragic romances…

This team of expert tour guides is headed up by Jill Collinge, a Blue Badge Guide for the region. With over 35 years of experience as a guide, it’s safe to say she knows a thing or two about Stamford!

• Stamford Arts Centre

One of Lincolnshire’s top live venues, Stamford Arts Centre is a leading arts hub. Visitors can experience and participate in a wide variety of art forms from theatre and cinema, to art, poetry, dance and music.

The history of this site dates back to the 18th century. Built in 1727, the Stamford Assembly Rooms were built to host dances, teas and other social activities. A new theatre was added to the building in 1766, and Stamford welcomed many big names of the English stage. Sadly the theatre was closed in 1871, and the building eventually ended up in a state of neglect.

It wasn’t until the 1970s that the Assembly Room and the Theatre were transformed and reopened as an Arts Centre. A new art gallery was added in the 1980s, followed by a cinema in the 90s. In just four years, this independent cinema welcomed over 100,000 visitors!

Today, Stamford Arts Centre remains at the heart of the community. The theatre welcomes national touring companies and the cinema shows a huge variety of films, from Hollywood blockbusters to art house flicks.

The beautiful Georgian ballroom regularly hosts a range of concerts, as well as dances, workshops and weddings. The main art gallery accommodates a varied programme of contemporary exhibitions from local and international artists, and there is artwork on display in the Gallery Bar.

As the Stamford Arts Centre also houses the town’s Tourist Information Centre, you can pop in here to find out more places of interest within the town.

• Burghley House

Regarded as one of the greatest Elizabethan houses in England, Burghley House is situated just outside Stamford.

Burghley was built between 1555 and 1587, and is one of the largest surviving houses of the sixteenth century. It was designed by and built for William Cecil, who was Lord High Treasurer to Queen Elizabeth I, and the most powerful courtier of the first Elizabethan age.

Burghley House is one of the best examples of a ‘prodigy house’. These were grand properties that were built with a view to housing Elizabeth I and her entourage as they travelled around the country.

It is said that the original plans were for Burghley to be a modest manor house, but things soon escalated. The designs were altered so that the layout of the building formed a letter E, in honour of the Queen. The plans for the main house grew to include 35 main rooms, 80 smaller rooms and countless halls, bathrooms and service areas. Outside, the house was also adorned with grand architectural features, all designed to impress any approaching guests.

Since it was built, direct descendants of William Cecil have lived at Burghley House. Although it is still a lived-in family home today, parts of the house are now open to the public six days a week and you can explore a number of the state rooms during your visit. Full of antique furniture, awe-inspiring art and priceless treasures, these beautiful rooms will transport you back to the Elizabethan age, to a world of riches and royalty.

Outside, there are 15 hectares of gardens surrounding Burghley House, with pleasure gardens, a sculpture garden, and even a garden of surprises… Legendary designer Capability Brown was largely involved with the landscaping, so it’s safe to say the grounds here are just as impressive as the house. Beyond the gardens, you will find even more to explore as the estate also features a deer park and a huge expanse of parkland.

There is a café, restaurant and adventure playground on site, so you can easily make a full day of your visit. You will also find a variety of events on throughout the year, from the famous Burghley Horse Trials to live concerts and festivals.