A beginner’s guide to the Lincolnshire Wolds

In 1973, the Lincolnshire Wolds were designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, protecting it for future generations. The landscape is considered to be some of the finest in Britain, with woodland, grassland and abandoned chalk pits providing important habitats for rare flowers and wildlife.

Although the Wolds are sparsely populated, it is thought that people have settled in the area since prehistoric times. Many of the place names indicate a Viking influence, and there are a number of “lost villages” and abandoned medieval settlements. Today, traditional agriculture is still a huge part of the Wolds, and the area is full of working farms. Grains, potatoes and sugar beet are grown in abundance and in spring, the landscape glows with brilliantly yellow rapeseed.

With open fields and thick hedgerows, the area is a hotspot for local wildlife; Otters and water voles inhabit the chalk streams, whilst the farmland is full of ground nesting birds and interesting insects. Turn your eyes to the sky and there’s a good chance you will spot buzzards, nightingales and even barn owls.

There are great footpaths, bridleways and cycling trails throughout the Wolds, so it’s easy to explore the area. Slopes are gentle, and the hills are scattered with ancient woodland, glacial valleys and historic burial grounds. As the colours and textures of the landscape change with each season, there is always something new to see.

The Wolds are also one of the best spots to enjoy Lincolnshire’s famous big skies. As it is the highest land between Kent and Yorkshire in eastern England, the hills offer fantastic views across the county, especially on a clear day. For centuries, the Lincolnshire landscape has captivated writers and artists. Alfred, Lord Tennyson wrote poems based on his experiences of the Wolds, and artist Peter de Wint painted the area extensively in the early 19th century.

Market Towns in the Lincolnshire Wolds

Although much of the Wolds is cultivated farmland, pretty villages and market towns are dotted amongst the hills. These residential regions would once have been the control centres of the area, providing a place to buy and sell local produce. Today, they still sit at the heart of the community, and most have small shops, pubs and cafes. Many of the towns also host seasonal events, some of which recognise traditions set centuries ago.

Horncastle

Often referred to as the ‘Gateway to the Lincolnshire Wolds’, Horncastle sits right at the heart of the county. Surrounded by idyllic countryside, the town is ideally situated half way between Lincoln and the Coast; the perfect base for those hoping to explore all that Lincolnshire has to offer.

A destination in itself, Horncastle has plenty to see and do. Its roots lie in Roman times, with sections of the original Roman walls still visible today. Like many of the towns in this region, the architecture predominantly dates back to the Victorian and Georgian eras. There are hidden gems around every corner, such as the beautiful Banovallum House - the headquarters of the Lincolnshire Wildlife Trust.

Horncastle is famed for its wonderful array of antique shops, and the town centre is full of independent businesses selling locally made wares. There is also a fantastic variety of cafes and tea rooms to try, all offering a selection of delicious Lincolnshire delicacies.

Alford

The picturesque town of Alford is located on the edge of the Lincolnshire Wolds, just 7 miles from the East Coast. The area boasts excellent road links, with Boston, Lincoln and Grimsby all just a short drive away. With countryside and coast both easily accessible, the town is a great base for people wanting to explore the wider county.

Alford is rich in history and as with much of the Wolds, there is evidence of Roman occupancy here. Centred around three market places, there is a wealth of 17^th and 18^th century buildings in the town, including a thatched manor house and a working windmill. Currently undergoing extensive restoration, this mill is one of only a few remaining five-sailed windmills in the UK.

The town is perhaps best known for hosting the Alford Craft Market, which was established in 1974. Initially launched to showcase Lincolnshire craftsmen, makers and artists, the market is now one of the oldest in the UK. It is staged several times throughout the year, drawing in visitors from across the county.

Louth

Situated at the foot of the Wolds, Louth was once named ‘Britain’s Finest Market Town’ by BBC’s Countryfile. The town is famous for its fantastic selection of independent retailers - around 70% of the businesses here are independently owned.

That’s not the only accreditation the town has received either; Louth was also hailed as a “food mecca” by TV chefs The Hairy Bikers. The weekly markets here offer some of Lincolnshire’s finest produce, much of which is grown in the surrounding Wolds. Even if you don’t visit on a market day, there are a number of independent food shops here, selling everything from meat and fish, to cakes and coffee.

Unlike many market towns, Louth has retained its original medieval street plan. Around the town centre, you will find some impressive Georgian and Victorian houses, alongside a variety of inns and cafes. If that wasn’t reason enough to visit, the church here also boasts the tallest parish spire in the country!

Spilsby

Just 12 miles from the popular seaside town of Skegness, Spilsby is one of the Wold’s liveliest market towns. Although it is small, the town acts as a hub for neighbouring villages so has a surprising amount of shops and facilities.

Evidence suggests that the Spilsby area has been occupied since prehistoric times and by the early medieval period, small settlements had formed in the area. The town received its first market charter in 1255, and the weekly market is a tradition that continues today.

Just outside Spilsby, you will find the impressive Gunby Hall Estate. Owned by the National Trust, this 18^th century house boasts acres of beautiful Victorian gardens. It doesn’t matter what time of year you visit – the estate is always blooming with bright colours and delicious scents. The house is also open to the public, showcasing an impressive collection of artwork, books and antique furniture.

Market Rasen

Famed for its racecourse, Market Rasen is another bustling market town in the Wolds. There has been a weekly market in the town since 1219, and it is still an integral part of the area today. The High Street here also boasts a great number of independent shops, many of which are long-standing, family-run businesses.

As Market Rasen has such a rich heritage, they have created a brilliant virtual tour which covers all the historic landmarks in the area. This interactive map will help you explore the town, and delve into some of the fascinating stories behind the buildings.

Market Rasen also has a ‘Walkers Are Welcome’ status so you will find a wealth of walking trails around the surrounding area. The nearby Willingham Woods is particularly popular with walkers, and a regular stop-off for people heading to the Lincolnshire coast.

Caistor

Nestled on a hillside, Caistor is situated on the northern edge of the Lincolnshire Wolds. This area was one of the most significant Roman settlements in the county; it is believed that it was once the site of 1st century military occupation and a 2nd century Roman fortress.

Today, the market square lies at the heart of a conservation area that contains 56 listed buildings, making it one of Lincolnshire’s most important towns. Most of the Georgian houses here were built as Caistor became a major centre for the wool trade. The town used to host huge sheep markets, attracting farmers from across the country. In 1858, 60,000 sheep were sold here!

As the Viking Way walking trail runs through the town, Caistor is extremely popular with hikers. The Civic Society here also host regular guided walking tours, which will give you a great insight into history of the area.