I was born in Lincolnshire and although I grew up just over the border in Nottinghamshire, I went to school and sixth form in Lincolnshire until I was 18 and to this day as a 32-year-old, some of my best friends still live in Lincolnshire.
All this to say, I’ve spent a lot of time in Lincolnshire!
Lincolnshire is the second largest county in England, so it’s no surprise that there are countless fun things to do in Lincolnshire, making it the perfect option for planning days out in Lincolnshire with friends, family, partners or the kids. Whether you’re looking for great walks, beautiful coastline, quaint villages, manor houses and gardens to explore or family-friendly activities, Lincolnshire has them all.
As a (sort of) local, I’m hear to give you plenty of ideas for Lincolnshire days out and the best places to visit in Lincolnshire to make the most of your weekends exploring this beautiful and underrated county.
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Ideas for days out in Lincoln: The best things to do in Lincolnshire
Lincoln
When I was at school, I was always jealous of our rival schools that were based in the city of Lincoln, it’s such a beautiful city (compared to the town I went to school in!) and I still think it’s a beautiful city today.
Lincoln is a beautiful medieval city with countless things to do, whether it’s your first time visiting Lincoln or you’re a local resident.
For first time visitors make sure you check out Steep Hill, walk along the Castle Walls and visit the beautiful Cathedral.
I’ve included my full day out in Lincoln guide here.
If you’ve been to Lincoln before, there are also plenty of the more unusual things to do in Lincoln such as axe throwing at Axed Lincoln or sample a range of cheeses at the Cheese Society (dangerously good!).
I’m also a fan of Carousel, an epic bar where you can also enjoy arcade games, shuffleboard, sharp shooter games and children are welcome before 8pm so the whole family can enjoy the games.
Cost: various
Who’s it for: Adults, couples, family-friendly
Tattershall Castle
As you can probably tell from this photo, it was absolutely FREEZING when I visited Tattershall Castle. But located just half an hour from Lincoln, it’s worth a visit and the striking red brick facade of Tattershall Castle really stands out as you drive through the village.
This 15th century castle also has a medieval past and is incredibly in-tact, complete with moat and guardhouse. You can see the spectacular staircase and gothic fireplace inside too.
Although the castle is closed during the winter, look out for their opening times from March onwards. The castle is owned by the National Trust so it’s free to visit if you’re a member.
Cost: £11 per adult, £5.50 per child or free for National Trust members
Who’s it for: couples, history fans, families
Tupholme Abbey Ruins
Anyone who loves history needs to spend some time exploring Lincolnshire. The county is known for its high concentration of historic buildings, ruins and abbeys. In this area near the River WItham alone, there are ruins of nine monasteries.
Tupholme Abbey is one of just a handful that still have standing remains from the Medieval period and is situated about 10 miles from Lincoln itself.
This is one of the super easy, free things to do in Lincolnshire because the Abbey is on several walking routes and is also easily accessible by parking in a layby at the bottom of the access road to the Abbey ruins. The ruins are open dusk till dawn, surrounded by greenery and perfect for picnicking and a summer day out in Lincolnshire.
Cost: FREE
Who’s it for: family-friendly
Donna Nook Seal Colony
The fact that Lincolnshire is home to one of the biggest grey seal colonies in the UK is such a hidden gem of the county and even though we visited a bit too late in the season (at the end of January) we still saw a seal or two.
For the best chance to see seals, you need to visit Donna Nook between November and early January which is when you’ll see hundreds, even thousands of grey seals and their pups before they take back to the sea in early to mid-January.
This is a great option for a family friendly day out in Lincolnshire, especially if you’re looking for things to do in Lincolnshire in winter – a traditionally miserable time of year, but these cute seals make it feel happier!
There’s a large car park which is free and a viewing area behind a fence so you don’t disturb the seals. Please be respectful of the seals and don’t get to close to them!
At other times of year this is a military air force training ground so please exercise caution when walking here.
Cost: FREE
Who’s it for: family friendly, everyone
Vine House Farm
Time for me to be bias again but sunflowers are my favourite flower, they’re in season around my birthday and they’re the flowers I had when we got married, so I always love a sunflower farm!
Which is lucky for me because Vine House Farm is the biggest sunflower producer in the UK. The fields of yellow seem to stretch for miles and they really are spectacular to see.
Vine House Farm is a farmshop and cafe all year round, but at certain times of year, you can also visit the farm, go on farm tours and in August, you can visit their sunflower field.
In the autumn you can also go pumpkin picking.
This is a great day out if you’re looking for family things to do in Lincolnshire, for romantic things to do in Lincolnshire or if you’re an eager wildlife photographer, because the farm also supports the Wildlife Trust.
Cost: from £15
Who’s it for: Couples, adults, family-friendly, photographers
Stamford
I probably didn’t realise it at the time when I was playing netball on cold winter evenings in Stamford as a teen but it is a massively underrated market town in Lincolnshire.
With stunning Georgian architecture, plenty of foodie options, boutiques and local businesses on the High Street, a fortnightly Farmer’s Market and a weekly market on Fridays and Saturdays.
The quaint cobbled streets are gorgeous to explore, with over 600 listed buildings and if you want to learn more about Stamford, I recommend a Stamford Walking Tour which I did with my Grandma a few years ago – there are various history tours run by locals throughout the year, plus additional seasonal tours at Christmas.
For a cosy day out in Stamford, check out a performance at the Stamford Corn Exchange Theatre, grab a coffee at Scandimania Coffee House and enjoy a stroll along the river.
Cost: various
Who’s it for: family-friendly
Tolethorpe Open Air Theatre, Stamford
Another spot I’ve been to with my Grandma several times over the years!
For those seeking more culture, don’t miss the Tolethorpe Hall Rutland Open Air Theatre, just outside of Stamford and a perfect activity if you’re looking for things to do in south Lincolnshire or things to do in Lincolnshire for couples as a unique date night idea!
This is the home of Stamford Shakespeare Company with spectacular professional performances throughout the year, I’ve seen As You Like It and Taming of the Shrew there. But they don’t just stick to Shakespeare, there’s seasonal performances like A Christmas Carol at Christmas and other classics like The Mirror Crack’d and One Man, Two Guvnors.
This is one of the most unusual things to do in Lincolnshire as you can experience the unique open air theatre in a stunning setting at Tolethorpe Hall. Book tickets here.
Cost: from £24
Who’s it for: adults, couples
Harlaxton Manor
Without a doubt one of my favourite hidden gems in Lincolnshire, this Manor located just outside of Grantham only recently started opening to the public in 2021 and is only open on specific dates in the year.
It seems almost unbelievable that Harlaxton Manor is owned by the University of Evansville in Indiana, USA. But it really is a college for American university students to come and experience a semester in the rural English countryside in this spectacular manor (what a niche experience!)
Harlaxton Manor has a fascinating history and owes its unique architecture to an interesting series of architects who worked on it too. The interior of the Manor is just as spectacular as the exterior and I’ve been lucky enough to visit twice both on a regular open day and also at Christmas.
If you have the chance to visit one of the Christmas open days at Harlaxton, I highly recommend getting tickets – move over Chatsworth, this is the underrated Christmas manor to visit!
This is one of the best things to do in Lincolnshire and you’re in luck if you’re able to catch it on one of it’s few open days. Check for summer and Christmas open days and events on their website – they often don’t announce these until closer to the date so I would recommend following them on Instagram for the latest annoucements.
Cost: from £15
Who’s it for: adults, couples, families, architecture and English history enthusiasts
Burghley House
Another spectacular example of English architecture in Lincolnshire. Burghley House is a 16th Century, Elizabethan country house, most well-known for the Burghley Horse Trials.
Burghley is home to Lord Burghley and the house has been lived in by the same family for 16 generations.
I ended up stopping here by chance on my way back from getting an emergecy passport renewal in Peterborough (oops!) and I’m so glad I did, even just a walk through the Parkland is spectacular and there are miles of walking trails to enjoy. Walking in the Parkland is free and open all year round, you only need to pay if you want to visit the House and Gardens.
You can visit this stunningly preserved Elizabethan House and Gardens and learn about the history of the house. Tickets for the house and gardens start from £22 and Garden only tickets cost £11. The house and gardens close for the winter and usually reopen in February/March.
Cost: from £11 or visit the Parklands for free all year
Who’s it for: family, couples, history enthusiasts, photographers
Skegness, Lincolnshire
Ahhh, Skeggy…
Love it or hate it, this is one of the most well-known places on the Lincolnshire coast.
Skegness is one of the country’s oldest seaside resorts and is still a popular seaside location for family holidays, day trips or weekends away, as well as being one of the best things to do in Lincolnshire for families.
The beach itself at Skegness has been given the Blue Flag award, meaning the water is clean and safe to swim in.
From Coinsville Amusements to Bottons Pleasure Beach, there’s countless attractions and things to do in Skegness for children.
For older children, families and groups of friends, enjoy the various escape rooms or Laser Quest.
Skegness Aquarium and Skegness Bowl are also great options if you’re looking for things to do in Skegness in the rain.
For couples and adults, check out the Spirit of Skegness gin distillery, the outdoor pool, a stroll along the pier or the cinema and countless bars and restaurants.
Skeggy get’s a bad rap sometimes, but it is a hotspot for things to do in Lincolnshire and you have countless options for planning days out in Skegness for the whole family.
Check the tourism website for the dates you’re planning to visit because Skegness has some of the best festivals and events in Lincolnshire throughout the year.
Cost: various
Who’s it for: the whole family
Lincolnshire Wolds
While people flock to the Lake District or the Cotswolds for a walking weekend or a quintessentially English day trip, did you know that the Lincolnshire Wolds is an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty right here in Lincolnshire?!
I genuinely had no clue there was an AONB in Lincolnshire until after I’d left school so I’m trying to make up for that now with plenty of visits when I can!
With quaint villages, historic market towns, rolling hills and miles and miles of walking routes, you can plan dozens of days out in the Wolds and places to visit in Lincolnshire Wolds for the whole family to enjoy (just see the next item on this article list!)
Home to the 147 mile Viking Way walking route, miles and miles of cycling routes as well as activities like motor racing, fishing or swimming all being possible in the Wolds, you have endless options for things to do in Lincolnshire Wolds.
If you’ve hit a rainy day or would prefer to avoid walks, check out the stately homes owned by the National Trust, such as Gunby Hall or visit Bolingbroke Castle or Tattershall Castle.
Visit the Wolds tourism website for more day trip inspiration for things to do in Lincolnshire Wolds.
Cost: various
Who’s it for: outdoor lovers, active trips, family-friendly
Ride the Lincolnshire Wolds Steam Railway
Running between the Lincolnshire Wolds and the Lincolnshire Coast on an old stretch of line which was previously used by Great Northern, you’ll find the Wolds steam railway.
A standard Gauge heritage steam train currently runs between Ludborough and North Thoresby and is one of the best options for family days out Lincolnshire has to offer. Or in my case, a surprise day out for my husband who is OBSESSED with heritage trains!
Compared to other steam railway experiences in the UK, this one is also exceptionally cheap. At just £5 one way for an adult or £10 for the day ticket and £3 for children one way or £6 for a day ticket. Making it one of the best cheap things to do in Lincolnshire for the whole family.
Cost: from £5
Who’s it for: families, rail enthusiasts
Cycling routes in the Wolds
If you’re looking for an active day out in Lincolnshire as well as free days out in Lincolnshire, the dozens of cycling routes throughout the Wolds are a great option.
Grab your bike and head out for a day on the trails with your friends, your family or our kids.
It’s the perfect summer day out on a budget.
Find all the cycling routes here.
Cost: free
Who’s it for: families, couples, cycling and outdoor enthusiasts
Wild Flower meadows in Red Hill Nature Reserve
Also located in the Wolds, this stunning field has been returned to nature as a wildflower meadow to encourage native plants and wildlife.
In fact, Red Hill was named as a Coronation Meadow in 2013 to mark the 60th anniversary of the Queen’s Coronation.
Visit in the spring or summer to see the vibrant flowers bloom and change colours through the seasons – we visited in January and obviously were not lucky enough to see flowers then, but the views were still gorgeous!
Cost: free
Who’s it for: anyone, nature lovers
Woolsthorpe Manor
Most well-known as the home of Sir Isaac Newton… my brother went to the same school that Sir Isaac Newton went to, so I feel like this fact was drilled into me!
However Woolsthorpe Manor is now owned by the National Trust and this seemingly ordinary manor house has a spectacular history.
See the rooms where Sir Isaac Newton himself made his famous discoveries and even see the orchard where the falling apple from the apple tree inspired his theory of gravity. On site you’ll also find a science centre to learn more about Newton’s discoveries and how they informed science today.
Honestly a fascinating trip out and really not what I expected from rural Lincolnshire!
Cost: Adults £14, Child £7, Family £35, Free for National Trust Members
Who’s it for: National Trust fans and history enthusiasts
Kinema in the Woods
This is one of those spots that the locals don’t want you to know about!
A very quirky experience and definitely one of the more unique things to do around Lincolnshire is to book tickets to see a movie at Kinema in the Woods.
This cinema is located in Woodhall Spa, an unassuming village with this cinema dating back to 1922 and it’s home to the only fully functioning back projection cinema still in existence in the UK!
The cinema is still a family-run and owned business and while you can see all the latest blockbuster hits here as you would at any other cinema, you can have the unique experience of feeling as if you’ve stepped back in time and experience watching a film in this 19th century piece of cultural history!
Tickets are also very affordable and often cheaper than tickets in nearby Nottingham cinemas! This is a great option for a family evening out in Lincolnshire and one of the top 10 things to do in Lincolnshire for an affordable price!
Cost: £8.90 adult ticket, £7.90 children ticket
Who’s it for: film-lovers, families, couples
Have a relaxing day at a Spa
Nothing is a more relaxing day out than a spa day, and thankfully there’s plenty of options for a spa day in Lincolnshire, including The Grange and Belton Woods.
With half day and full day experiences and a variety of packages for men and women, including massages, facials, gym facilities and pool facilities, this is the perfect romantic day out in Lincolnshire or as I found, a great option for a hen do and mother of the bride day out before the big day!
Cost: Packages start from £65 for a half day experience at the Grange
Who’s it for: Adults only
Belton House
If you’re a Bridgerton fan then this one is for you…
I grew up going to Belton House but it truly has been put on the global map after becoming a filming location for the Bridgerton series. My most recent visit was last year and I couldn’t believe how much more popular it was compared to when I used to visit 10+ years ago!
Belton House is a spectacular 17th century traditional country manor house set in a stunning deer park. With historical and cultural beauty to explore both inside the house, in the Italian Gardens, the Orangery, the spectacular library and throughout the park, you can easily spend a whole day out at Belton House.
Belton is owned by the National Trust so the property is preserved and restored beautifully, the grounds are also home to the National Trust’s largest outdoor adventure playground, so there’s plenty for the children to enjoy too!
They also do a park run every weekend which I definitely have not taken part in but a few friends have and what a lovely setting for it!
Check the website before your visit as there are often events happening at Belton House too. Don’t miss the stunning Christmas at Belton display every winter.
This is a great option for days out near Grantham.
Cost: From £20 for adults, and from £10 for children
Who’s it for: the whole family, history fans, National Trust enthusiasts
Walk along Grantham Canal to the Dirty Duck
If you’re looking for things to do in Lincolnshire for free, this is one of our favourites because it’s so easy (and local to us!)
If you’re based in or around Grantham or the Vale of Belvoir, then you’re probably already aware of the Grantham Canal. This is a lovely walk along the canal, you can take in the views of the Vale, the canal locks and the wildlife in the area and is perfect for days out near Grantham.
When I was born, my parents lived in a small cottage in Denton, not far from here and it’s an area we all still return to for Boxing Day family walks.
The Dirty Duck Pub is located just outside the village of Woolsthorpe. For a longer walk, this could be your destination and turning point after some light food and drink refreshment at the pub. Or for a shorter walk, park at the pub car park and walk as far as you like in either direction.
Parking at the pub is free, the food and drink there is great if you want something warming or cooling after your walk, depending on the time of year!
This is also a great addition to your day if you’re visiting Belvoir Castle, which is just a couple of minutes drive away and mentioned later in this guide.
Cost: free
Who’s it for: everyone
Lincolnshire Aviation Heritage Centre
The Lincolnshire Aviation Heritage Centre is a great day out and one of the best places to visit in Lincolnshire for aviation enthusiasts, families and those interested in the history of the Bomber Command in WW2.
Home to one of the rare Avro Lancaster Bombers, the centre is also a memorial to and exhibition of the role of Bomber Command in the war.
The museum itself is based on the old RAF airfield at East Kirkby and the old hangar and control tower still remains.
Cost: Adults £12.50, children £5
Who’s it for: aviation enthusiasts, families
Mablethorpe
Mablethorpe is a family favourite along the Lincolnshire coast, with the likes of Skegness and Ingoldmells.
With a two mile long sandy beach, family attractions like the miniature railway or Dunes Complex or bike hire to explore the town and further afield, Mablethorpe is the perfect family day out in Lincolnshire and offers plenty of things to do in Lincolnshire for kids.
Don’t miss the colourful beach huts, go exploring in the sand dunes or enjoy a picnic in the Queens Park where you’ll also find a cafe, boating lake and paddling pool.
Mablethorpe’s location is perfect if you’re looking for things to do in east Lincolnshire or alternative places to visit near Skegness.
Cost: various
Who’s it for: families
Grantham
I went to school in Grantham and definitely had a love-hate relationship with it when I was growing up! But now I can appreciate it a lot more!
Grantham is a lively market town with great connections to London and other surrounding cities – great if you’re looking for a day out to London, Nottingham, Manchester, Sheffield or beyond!
But Grantham itself is also worth spending a day exploring, with a variety of things to see and do in Lincolnshire located here.
Known as the birthplace of Sir Isaac Newton, and more recently, Margaret Thatcher, the town is home to incredible history. Visit the Grantham Museum or Woolsthorpe Manor to learn more.
Grantham also holds a weekly Saturday market as well as farmer’s markets once a month with local produce available for sale.
Visit the Guildhall Arts Centre for a dose of culture and family fun, with anything from orchestra performances to pantomime, to half-term family days out. This is a great option if you’re looking for indoor things to do in Lincolnshire or things to do in Grantham and the surrounding area in the rain! Check their website to see what’s on.
Or in the summer, simply take a wander around the town, grab some food and head to Wyndham Park for a picnic and an ice cream from Wyndham Park Cafe.
There’s also some great spots in the town centre now like Kitchen and Coffee or Kings Walk Cafe.
Cost: various
Who’s it for: everyone
Doddington Hall
Doddington Hall is unique because it’s still a family-owned home. Its Elizabethan style makes it a beautiful place to visit with stunning gardens and a cute tearoom cafe.
Whether you want to go on an estate walk, see inside the home or visit one of the onsite restaurants or shops, you can easily spend a day at Doddington Hall and Gardens and enjoy everything there is to see and do at one of the most ‘off the beaten path’ Lincolnshire tourist attractions.
Christmas is a popular time at the estate, with full decor, the Winter Restaurant and Christmas Tree sales. But check their website for events throughout the year as summer sees classic car festivals, cycling events and more.
Doddington Hall is a great option for days out in Lincolnshire for couples, with the house to explore, romantic strolls in the garden, followed by a treat at their stunning restaurants on site.
Cost: from £13.50 adult, £6.75 children to visit the house and gardens
Who’s it for: couples, families, romantic days out
Revesby Abbey and Estate Paranormal Night
For something unique to do and for things to do in Lincolnshire for adults, how about a paranormal activity night at Revesby Abbey?
Located on the edge of the Lincolnshire Wolds, Revesby Abbey is said to be one of the most haunted locations in the UK, particularly its basement which has been the setting for harrowing events over the centuries.
Now isolated and unlived in, there are restoration attempts ongoing to restore the building, however the main way to visit is on a ghost tour such as this one, to stay in the abbey and its maze of haunted corridors overnight.
Definitely a unique activity, instead of days out in Lincolnshire, spending a night in a haunted house in Lincolnshire sounds even more exciting!
If that sounds too scary for you, perhaps opt for a quick stop on the side of the road passing the Abbey entrance because the Revesby Abbey estate is home to hundreds and hundreds of deer which is an amazing sight to see if you’re passing by!
Cost: Paranormal Night = £55 per person, free to see the deer
Who’s it for: adults, paranormal enthusiasts
Lincolnshire Rural Life Museum
If you’re on the hunt for things to do in Lincoln, Lincolnshire itself, have you considered the Lincolnshire Rural Life Museum?
This is something a little different from the normal Lincoln city itinerary, but it’s perfect if you’re needing ideas for rainy day activities in Lincoln or something a bit slower paced.
Cost: FREE
Who’s it for: everyone, society and culture enthusiasts, rainy day activities
Horncastle
Horncastle is often called the gateway to the Lincolnshire Wolds, but it’s worth a visit in its own right!
A beautiful market town with charming pubs and history rooted in the Roman times, Horncastle has also developed a reputation for its antique stores, so don’t miss wandering around a few!
If you’ve heard of the Lincolnshire Plum Loaf, this is the place to buy it too – from the Myers Bakery – which is next door to their cafe and tearoom – a great spot to enjoy a snack and people watch!
Cost: various
Who’s it for: everyone
Visit the Georgian town of Louth
Home to the highest church spire in England at St James’ Church, Louth has also made a name for itself as a bit of a foodie destination!
Head to Louth for the weekly markets to get some of Lincolnshire’s local produce and see the best that this market town has to offer.
There’s also countless shops and boutique stores for a spot of shopping on your day out, Georgian architecture to admire and the Spout Yard for picnicking and kids to play.
Cost: various
Who’s it for: families, couples, town days out
Stay in unique accommodation
If you’re looking for unique things to do in Lincolnshire, nothing says it more than an overnight getaway in the county.
Although it’s more than just a day out in Lincolnshire, spending a day and overnight stay fully disconnecting and enjoying a unique getaway is the perfect opportunity for something a little different perhaps as a staycation not too far from home.
Here’s a few ideas to get you started:
A unique lakeside glamping pod with a hot tub
Enjoy an escape with a private terrace and hot tub on the waterside
Stay in a family-friendly 3-bed lodge with a roof terrace and hot tub in Tattershall
Wolds Way Lavender Farm
Visit this beautiful working lavender farm in the Lincolnshire Wolds. Lavender grows in June and July, so you can visit the stunning fields in the summer months, all the way through to September.
There are rows of 100s of types of lavender, plus lavender products in their shop.
With nature trails, bug gardens, wildflower meadows, nature ponds, bee hives, herb garden and a woodland walk, you can easily spend a cheap day out in nature at the Lavender farm along with plenty of places for games and picnicking.
Cost: from £12 for entry (check website for open dates each year)
Who’s it for: families, children
Anderby Creek village and sand dunes
A real, undiscovered gem on the Lincolnshire coastline, Anderby Creek is the perfect option for a day out at the beach.
This pristine stretch of beach is a great day out, with a sweeping sandy beach, stunning sand dunes and an idyllic village to explore.
With a cafe and store in the village as well as five caravan parks, it has everything you need for a Lincolnshire day out or a longer getaway.
The area is surrounded by beautiful coastal walks, perfect for bird spotting too as well as the UK’s only designated official cloud watching area, see the next section for more details.
Cost: free
Who’s in for: families, couples, nature lovers
Cloud Bar at Anderby Creek
Also located in Anderby Creek is the Cloud Bar. The area is a designated cloud spotting area.
Inside the cloud spotting building, seating is specifically designed to watch clouds, with adjustable mirrors for optimal viewing. Don’t miss this stop on your trip to Anderby Creek.
Cost: free
Who’s it for: cloud watchers, children, nature lovers
Day trips from Lincolnshire and surrounds
If you’re looking for things to do near Lincolnshire and you’re happy to explore some of the surrounding counties such as Nottinghamshire, Cambridgeshire or Northamptonshire, these places are technically just outside of the Lincolnshire county lines. But are all within an easy drive of the county, depending on where you’re located or where you’re planning your days out in Lincolnshire and beyond.
Belvoir Castle
If you’re looking for places to go in Lincolnshire or very close by, it doesn’t get much closer than this! In fact, Belvoir Castle is just 4 minutes outside the Lincolnshire village of Woolsthorpe, but is technically located in Leicestershire!
This stunning castle is a working castle and home to the Duke and Duchess of Rutland. The same family has lived here in an unbroken line for almost 1000 years!
Belvoir Castle is considered one of the best-preserved examples of Regency architecture remaining in the UK and it really does look like a fairytale castle with its turrets and its position on a hill, towering over the Vale of Belvoir.
If you’re a fan of The Crown on Netflix, Belvoir Castle is used as the exterior for Windsor Castle throughout the series.
They often have events in the gardens as well as themed decor in the house or themed events, including Christmas lights trail, Easter Egg hunt trail, running events, Tough Mudder, outdoor cinema in summer, afternoon tea experiences, garden shows and fireworks displays, so check their website for details before your visit.
Cost: Adults from £10, Children from £6 (events and some open days cost more, check for details)
Who’s it for: the whole family, special occasions
Vale of Belvoir
If you’re visiting Belvoir Castle, why not spend some time exploring the Vale of Belvoir too?
From cute villages, charming country pubs, to cycling trails and canal walks, there’s plenty to do regardless of the season.
Follow the Grantham Canal walking path, or pop into the Dirty Duck or the Windmill Inn in Redmile.
Spend the afternoon in Belvoir Castle’s Retail Village, just outside the Belvoir Castle entrance. Belvoir Castle’s Retail Village is an artisan marketplace of restaurants, shops and cafes, packed with local produce and products.
Don’t miss the Belvoir Bistro or the Balloon Bar for food and drink.
Cost: various
Who’s it for: the whole family
Elton Hall and Gardens
Only open in the summer, Elton Hall and Gardens is located about 20 minutes south of Stamford, in Cambridgeshire and close to Peterborough.
The house is a unique 15th century, part-gothic house with Victorian Gardens and still owned by the Proby family, who have been resident for 400 years.
The library is a real standout room in the house, as is the Orangery in the garden where weddings are often held.
Cost: £17.50 adults, children under 16 are free
Who’s it for: history enthusiasts, couples, adults
Rutland
I am in love with so many of the cottages in Rutland! If I wasn’t too tall to fit in the doors I’d probably buy one!
Known as the smallest county in the UK, Rutland is also home to the largest man-made body of water in Europe: Rutland Water!
About 40 minutes from Grantham and 20 minutes from Stamford, the county of Rutland makes a perfect day out for families, couples and friends alike.
Why not book an afternoon of watersports like sailing, windsurfing or kayaking on Rutland Water? There are beginner classes as well as advanced classes available.
Go for a walk or cycle around Rutland Water or discover some of the quaint villages in the county, such as Exton or Empingham.
Find out more and plan things to do in Rutland.
Cost: various
Who’s it for: the whole family, outdoor enthusiasts, watersports fans
Nottingham
Despite everything I’ve said so far about going to school in Lincolnshire and being born in Lincolnshire, I lived in Nottinghamshire from the age of 5-18 and took a long old bus journey to Grantham every day for school!
But, despite the nicknames that Nottingham has been given over the years, I genuinely think the city has a lot to offer!
Nottingham is around 50 minutes drive from Grantham or 1 hour from Lincoln with direct trains from both.
Home of Robin Hood, Batman’s House at Wollaton Hall and the recently refurbished and re-opened Nottingham Castle, which has re-opened after a £30 million renovation. You can learn tons about the history of Nottingham, Robin Hood, the Civil War and discover the network of caves below the city.
Head to the Trip to Jerusalem for a pint in the oldest pub in England before heading to the Victoria Centre for a spot of shopping.
The Market Square often has events throughout the year including the famous Winter Wonderland at Christmas, or head into independent Hockley for secret bars like Hockley Arts Club, or live music and comedy nights – perfect for date night.
Plan a weekend trip to Nottingham here.
Cost: various
Who’s it for: friends, couples, romantic evenings or weekends out
Newark Air Museum
Newark Air Museum is a welcoming, family-orientated air museum with two major aircraft display halls and extensive aircraft, aviation and cockpit collections.
There’s over 35 aero engines, 34 significant aircraft and 21 noteworthy aircraft as listed in in the Aviation Heritage Register, so this is the place to come for aviation enthusiasts!
There’s also a cafe and shop onsite at the museum.
Cost: £12.50 adults, £6.50 children
Who’s it for: family, aviation enthusiasts, history enthusiasts
Summary: things to do in Lincolnshire and beyond
I might be a bit bias as I grew up in this area, but I hope my local knowledge has shown you really how much there is to do in and around Lincolnshire.
I hope this extensive list has given you plenty of ideas and inspiration for things to see in Lincolnshire, places to visit and days out in Lincolnshire, whether you’re a family, couple or group of friends looking for inspiration!
I really do think it’s a really underrated area of the country and if you’re a local, you’re exceptionally lucky to have so many beautiful places to visit and things to see in Lincolnshire and the surrounds.
Pin this for later to plan your future trip!
