I have always considered Lincolnshire as a bit of an unknown, and felt a long weekend break to this East of England county was in order. From a historic Cathedral to a unique cinema experience, Lincolnshire has so much to offer and perhaps four days was too short to do this fascinating county justice. However, here are seven ideas for enriching your visiting experience.

Lincoln Cathedral

Lincoln Cathedral – The majestic Lincoln Cathedral high on a hill can be seen from miles around and was reputedly the tallest building in the world for 249 years, A visit to the Gothic Cathedral is a must. The historic cathedral was used in the filming of The Da Vinci Code, doubling for Westminster Abbey, which in itself shows the buildings grandeur. Entrance is free, however a donation is recommended as the cost of maintaining this landmark is astronomical.

Lepus Lodge – We stayed at Lepus Lodge, wedged in-between Lincoln (3 miles to the south), and the home to the Red Arrows RAF Scampton. An elegantly styled ‘Finnish’ log cabin, located on a peaceful working farm overlooking serene fields. The lodge is named after the Latin for Hare which is so prevalent in the area (alas, we didn’t see any). I would definitely recommend a stay. The area was so tranquil and in close proximity to Lincoln. We booked through Hoseasons Country Cottages.

Windmills– The Lincolnshire landscape at times can be quite windswept and a perfect home for the windmill. With

Sibsey Trader Windmill

some 19 windmills open to the public scattered all over the county you are sure to come across turning sails at some point. We stopped for afternoon tea at Sibsey Trader Windmill 5 miles north of Boston. Built in 1877 and dubbed as the’ Rolls Royce’ of windmills and for £2.50 you can climb the steep steps up into the upper workings.

Lincoln Bailgate Area – Wander the cobbled streets listening to buskers, taking horse and carriage rides and attempt Steep Hill, both ways! The area around the castle and cathedral is a haven for travellers, with boutique shops and cafes to hand. You can simply meander around and soak up the atmosphere.

Skegness – The VisitSkegness website describes the seaside town as ‘a thriving resort on the East Coast of England’, this is true, but, to be honest, I can’t see the attraction. Yes, there is sand and sea (cold at that), Butlins and all the fun of the fair but I felt it somehow lacked the British seaside tradition. The glare of neon and the coin battering of slot machines is overpowering, yet the beaches, pier and promenade were full of holiday-makers. Perhaps you need to visit to make up your own mind.

Kinema In The Woods

Kinema – Hidden in the woodland around Woodhall Spa, so named after a natural spring found by accident, lies a real treat for Cinema goers. Originally a farm building converted to a Cinema in 1922, the Kinema In The Woods takes you back to yesteryear to an era of paper tickets, ice cream intervals and of course, no early memories would be complete without Pearl and Dean (Unfortunately, minus the catchy music!). All this and you can still watch the latest releases. An adult ticket is only £6.30.

Farm Shops – Driving around the county you often encounter local produce for sale at farm shops, none more so than the interesting Oslinc farm, located in Moorby 4 miles from Horncastle. ‘Os’ is for Ostrich and ‘Linc’ is for Lincolnshire. Unfortunately they aren’t licensed Ostrich viewing; however, you can take a sneaky peek over the gate. Do pick up some delicious Ostrich Burgers or Meat Balls, incredibly lean and low in fat. Yum.

We really wanted to visit the Bubble Car Museum however we were eight months too early, I guess I shall have to return one day.

Have you visited Lincolnshire? what would you recommend?

We always look forward to hearing from you.

Si Salter

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