Heritage and Culture

CASTLES AND MANORS

• A must-see is Lincoln Castle. Built by William the Conqueror in 1068 it is one of the most impressive Norman castles in the UK and home to one of the four remaining copies of the Magna Carta. Recently work has developed many attractions, including Victorian and Edwardian prison buildings plus a fantastic accessible wall walk for everyone. There are various exciting events throughout the year including jousting tournaments.
• Lincoln Cathedral, a short walk from the castle, towering majestically over the city from whichever direction you approach, is one of the finest gothic buildings in Europe. Along with its rich and varied history, it has been a place of worship for over 1000 years.  Several visitor tours are available to tell you more about Lincoln Cathedral. The Floor Tour lasts about an hour and incorporates all aspects, from architecture to the history of the building. The Roof Tour lasts about 90 minutes. Visitors can see the inside of one of the cathedral roofs, as well as a close-up view of the stained glass windows. The Tower Tour runs from March to November and visitors climb the cathedral’s highest tower. At the top is a 360 degree view of the city and beyond.  Booking is recommended for the Roof or Tower Tours.
• Tattershall Castle (National Trust), a 15th century imposing brick castle, was built by Ralph Cromwell who at the time was one of the most powerful men in England. Far reaching views from the top.
• Gunby Estate Hall & Gardens, (National Trust) is often described as a large doll’s house and sits within glorious grounds and lovely walled gardens.
• Gainsborough Old Hall, a medieval manor house with links to King Henry VIII and regular exhibitions and events.
• Alford Manor House is the largest thatched house in the country and has regular events and craft fairs.
• Doddington Hall and Gardens is an Elizabethan mansion near Lincoln designed by the famous architect Robert Smythson.
• Belton House, (National Trust) near Grantham, is a perfect example of an English country house with its deer park. New for 2015 is a children’s adventure playground.
• Woolsthorpe Manor, (National Trust) is the birthplace of Sir Isaac Newton offers plenty to see and interactive science based activities.
• Burley House, is one of the largest and grandest houses of the first Elizabethan period. History can come alive in a single trip whether it is to enjoy a guided tour, take a dog for a walk in the park, or take time over lunch in the Orangery.

MUSEUMS

• Museum of Lincolnshire Life on Burton Road in Lincoln tells its visitors of the culture of Lincolnshire and its people from 1750 to the present day. One of the surviving First World War tanks made in the city, Flirt, is among the artifacts.  Admission is free.
• The Collection in Lincoln opened in 2005 to bring together the award-winning archaeology museum and the Usher Gallery in a £12.5m development. The museum is particularly appealing for younger visitors while the Usher Gallery holds a diverse collection of fine and decorative arts and stages temporary exhibitions supported by the Arts Council.
• The Cottage Museum in Woodhall Spa is a joy to explore and packed with intriguing stories and displays about the local area and the Wield family, who lived in the building from 1887 until the 1960s. The Museum building itself is an important Museum exhibit. It is a rare surviving example of a bungalow constructed of corrugated iron on a wooden frame that was erected in the late nineteenth century.
• Louth Museum is an award-winning visitor attraction in the historic market town of Louth, nestling at the foot of the Lincolnshire Wolds. There are four galleries, a library, and a gift shop.

ANTIQUES

For those with an interest in antiques, the nearby market town of Horncastle is a must. Being only 10 minutes drive from Greetham Retreat it is famous for all its independent antique shops and is known as the ‘antique capital of Lincolnshire’, it has over 19 individual antiques and old book shops.

The Hemswell Antique Centre is also well worth a visit and has Europe’s largest selection of dealers who can offer you the widest possible range of antique furniture and vintage collectables. It is open 7 days a week between 10am and 5pm.