What to do in the Lincolnshire Wolds, from country trails to gin tasting
The verdant, rolling hills of the Lincolnshire Wolds.
Why go
This idyllic corner of the country, designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) in 1973, is a land dotted with old, steeple-topped market towns. But it’s the Wolds’ rural charms that impress most: these rolling hills are home to working farms, nourishing the country with a wealth of grains, potatoes, sugar beet and more, while historic burial mounds and barrows hint at ancient settlements. It’s this same timeless beauty that’s thought to have inspired Victorian poet laureate Lord Tennyson, born in the Wolds in the village of Somersby in 1809. visitlincolnshire.com
What to do
With ancient woodland and glacial valleys, the region makes for excellent walking. The gentle hills — which peak at a modest 550ft — mean that even the most sloping trails are unchallenging, but still offer sublime views, stretching north to the Humber and into Yorkshire. Cycling is also popular, with a 112-mile route snaking through the Wolds, starting and finishing in the historic market town of Louth. For a change of scene, head to the striking North Sea Observatory at Chapel Point for one of the ‘sunrise breakfasts’ at its Seascape Cafe. cycle-england.co.uk
Where to eat
Make a beeline for Louth, home to the Auction House. This restaurant has made a name for itself with its beautiful decor and dishes such as ham hock terrine and root vegetable shepherd’s pie. Next door, the Mason Arms is a stylish restaurant with rooms serving local fare, as well as the Louth afternoon tea, featuring sweets and savouries sourced from local suppliers. auctionhouselouth.co.uk the-masons-arms.com
Shopping in Louth.
Don’t miss
Just west of Louth, Hubbard’s Hills is a winding park tracing the River Lud. Dating to the mid-19th century, it’s an excellent area for a leisurely stroll, with stepping stones and woodland groves. In a part of England with no shortage of beauty spots, this is a standout. hubbardshills.co.uk
We like
Bottomley Distillers, just outside Louth. Founding duo Amy Conyard and Alan Bottomley started making gin in their garage in 2016 and the name of their delicious liquor — Pin Gin — refers to pine needles, a nod to the pair’s decision to swap careers and make gin instead of selling Christmas trees. bottomleydistillers.co.uk
Where to stay
On a real working farm, a vast barn has been converted into the Old Granary: three smart, contemporary self-catering apartments with all the usual creature comforts. It’s an ideal base for exploring the region, but don’t miss the chance to watch the sun rise over the farm with a morning coffee. From £90 per night. theoldgranarylincolnshire.co.uk
Published in the May 2022 issue of National Geographic Traveller (UK)
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